Drilling Underway at Elizabeth Hill: Can West Coast Silver Unlock New Riches?
West Coast Silver has initiated a 1,500-metre diamond drilling campaign at its historically rich Elizabeth Hill Silver Project in Western Australia, aiming to unlock new high-grade mineralisation using modern exploration techniques.
- Diamond drilling commenced at Elizabeth Hill Silver Project
- ~1,500 metre inaugural drill program underway
- Focus on extensions of known high-grade silver mineralisation
- Real-time geological analysis to optimize drilling efficiency
- Project located in a tier 1 mining jurisdiction with strong exploration potential
Drilling Begins at a Historic Silver Site
West Coast Silver Limited (ASX: WCE) has taken a significant step forward by commencing diamond drilling at its Elizabeth Hill Silver Project in Western Australia. This marks the first modern exploration effort at a site known for its exceptionally high-grade silver deposits, with historical production of 1.2 million ounces from a remarkably small tonnage of ore.
A Targeted and Adaptive Exploration Program
The company has mobilised a drill rig to site and started its inaugural campaign, targeting approximately 1,500 metres of drilling. The program is designed not only to test extensions of the known mineralisation but also to deepen understanding of the structural geology that controls silver distribution. This approach reflects a modern, data-driven exploration strategy that contrasts with the simplistic gravity separation methods used during the previous mining era.
Real-time analysis plays a key role in this campaign. Preliminary pXRF (portable X-ray fluorescence) testing and detailed geological logging will be conducted onsite in Karratha, allowing the geological team to rapidly interpret results and adjust drilling targets dynamically. This iterative process aims to maximise efficiency and precision, potentially accelerating the discovery of new high-grade zones.
Strategic Location and Untapped Potential
Elizabeth Hill sits within a tier 1 mining jurisdiction and benefits from proximity to existing infrastructure, including potential processing options at the nearby Radio Hill site. The project area has been consolidated into a contiguous 180 square kilometre land package, encompassing a significant portion of the Munni Munni fault system, which is considered prospective for multiple silver deposits.
Despite its rich history, the deposit remains open at depth, and the recent consolidation of surrounding tenements enhances the potential for discovering additional Elizabeth Hill-style mineralisation. This exploration campaign could therefore represent the beginning of a new chapter for the project, leveraging modern geological insights and technology to unlock value.
Looking Ahead
Executive Director Bruce Garlick expressed enthusiasm about the drilling commencement, highlighting the milestone as a pivotal moment for West Coast Silver. As fresh drill core is analysed, the company plans to keep shareholders informed with timely updates, underscoring a commitment to transparency and engagement during this critical phase.
Bottom Line?
As drilling progresses, West Coast Silver’s ability to translate geological insights into new discoveries will be crucial for unlocking Elizabeth Hill’s full potential.
Questions in the middle?
- What initial assay results will reveal about the extent and grade of mineralisation?
- How will real-time geological data influence the ongoing drill program adjustments?
- Could new discoveries at Elizabeth Hill trigger a re-rating of West Coast Silver’s valuation?
