Can OD6 Metals’ Gulf Creek Drilling Deliver a Major Copper Discovery Amid Rising Demand?
OD6 Metals has initiated Phase 2 drilling at its Gulf Creek Copper Project in NSW, aiming to explore large geophysical anomalies and untested prospects that could expand on previously confirmed high-grade copper mineralisation.
- Phase 2 drilling commenced targeting Big Bend, North West, and West Limb prospects
- Over 3km of untested strike with strong magnetic anomalies indicating potential massive sulphide mineralisation
- Initial 7 priority drill holes approved, with potential to expand to 25 holes totaling ~7,500m
- Phase 1 drilling confirmed high-grade copper up to 4.6% beneath historic Gulf Creek Mine
- Downhole EM surveys planned post-drilling to refine exploration targets
Exploration Momentum Builds at Gulf Creek
OD6 Metals Limited has officially kicked off Phase 2 drilling at its wholly owned Gulf Creek Copper Project in New South Wales, marking a significant step forward in the company’s efforts to unlock the potential of this historically high-grade copper district. The project, which lies near the town of Barraba, is notable for its legacy as one of Australia’s richest copper-zinc mines, with historical grades reaching up to 6.5% copper before its closure in 1912 due to depressed copper prices.
Building on the encouraging results from Phase 1 drilling earlier this year, which confirmed high-grade copper mineralisation directly beneath the historic Gulf Creek Mine, OD6 is now turning its attention to several compelling greenfield targets. These include the Big Bend, North West, and West Limb prospects, all characterized by strong geophysical signatures that mirror the magnetic footprint of the known mineralisation.
Targeting Large Geophysical Anomalies
The Phase 2 drilling program is designed to test over 3 kilometres of untested strike within the immediate mine stratigraphy, focusing on magnetic anomalies associated with volcanic-hosted massive sulphide (VMS) systems. These systems are known to occur in clusters, and the presence of jaspilite capping and strong magnetism at these prospects suggests a promising geological setting for copper-zinc mineralisation.
OD6 has secured approvals for up to 25 drill holes totaling approximately 7,500 metres, with an initial seven priority diamond drill holes planned for about 1,750 metres. The company’s strategy leverages the strong correlation between magnetic susceptibility and massive sulphide mineralisation identified during Phase 1, enhancing the precision of their targeting methodology.
Advanced Survey Techniques to Guide Exploration
Following the drilling campaign, OD6 plans to deploy Downhole Electromagnetic (DHEM) surveys to further delineate mineralised zones and identify additional targets. This approach aims to refine the understanding of the subsurface mineral system, potentially accelerating the discovery of new high-grade copper zones.
Managing Director Brett Hazelden highlighted the strategic importance of Gulf Creek within OD6’s portfolio, noting its complementarity to the company’s flagship Splinter Rock Rare Earth Project. He emphasized the project’s potential to deliver a large-scale copper system at a time when global copper demand is intensifying due to electrification and decarbonisation trends.
Outlook and Market Context
With copper prices supported by strong fundamentals worldwide, OD6’s advancement at Gulf Creek positions the company to capitalize on near-term growth opportunities in a proven mining district. While the current drilling results are pending, the combination of historical high grades, modern exploration techniques, and extensive untested strike length offers a compelling narrative for investors seeking exposure to copper’s critical role in the energy transition.
Bottom Line?
OD6’s Phase 2 drilling at Gulf Creek could redefine the project’s scale, setting the stage for a pivotal copper discovery in NSW.
Questions in the middle?
- Will Phase 2 drilling confirm extensions of high-grade copper mineralisation beyond historic zones?
- How will Downhole EM survey results influence the next phase of exploration and resource estimation?
- What impact could successful drilling have on OD6’s valuation and strategic positioning in the copper market?
