Tuckanarra Testwork Yields 92%-99% Gold Recovery Across Multiple Ore Types

Strong Preliminary Metallurgical Results

Odyssey Gold Limited (ASX, ODY) has announced encouraging preliminary metallurgical test results from its Tuckanarra Gold Project in Western Australia. Using the LeachWELL™ cyanide leach technique, the company achieved gold recoveries typically ranging from 92% to 99% across oxide, transitional, and fresh sulphide ore samples. This high recovery rate is a positive indicator for the economic viability of the project’s diverse ore types.

The testwork was conducted on composite samples sourced from multiple deposits within the project area, including Bollard, Bottle Dump, Cable, and Highway. Notably, the fresh sulphide ores, which represent deeper mineralisation below existing pits, also demonstrated strong recoveries, a promising sign for future exploration and potential mine expansion.

Joint Venture and Processing Potential

This metallurgical program forms part of a broader Technical Study under a memorandum of understanding between Odyssey and its joint venture partner, Monument Murchison Pty Ltd. The study is investigating the feasibility of processing Tuckanarra ore at Monument’s Burnakura plant. The positive recovery results bolster the case for utilizing this nearby processing facility, potentially reducing capital expenditure and accelerating project development timelines.

Executive Director Matt Syme highlighted the significance of the fresh ore recoveries, stating that while previous mining and testwork had focused on weathered ores, the new data supports the potential exploitation of deeper ore sources. This could extend the life and scale of the Tuckanarra project.

Context and Historical Work

The Tuckanarra Gold Project has a rich exploration history, with multiple small open pits and historic workings dating back to the late 19th century. Odyssey’s recent drilling and resource updates have expanded the known mineralisation, culminating in a combined Indicated and Inferred Resource of approximately 407,000 ounces at 2.5 grams per tonne gold as of February 2024.

Previous metallurgical testwork, including studies by former owners, had already demonstrated high recoveries from oxide and transitional ores. The current program extends this understanding to fresh sulphide mineralisation, which had been less well tested.

Next Steps and Future Work

Odyssey plans to continue exploration and infill drilling to better define the resource and support mining studies. Further metallurgical and comminution testing is also underway, including grind optimisation, gravity separation, magnetic separation, and direct cyanidation with oxygenation. These studies aim to refine processing parameters and improve recovery efficiencies.

While these preliminary results are promising, the company cautions that further work is required to confirm processing viability and economic outcomes. The Technical Study with Monument remains ongoing, and future announcements will provide more detailed insights.