Complex Geology Challenges Litchfield’s Oonagalabi Target Refinement

Sulphide Intersections Confirm Target Fertility

Litchfield Minerals Limited (ASX – LMS) has reported a significant milestone in its Oonagalabi Project exploration with the intersection of approximately 46 metres of disseminated copper-iron sulphides in drill hole OGRC012 at the VT1 conductor. This discovery, located in the Northern Territory, reinforces the prospectivity of the VT1 target, a complex geophysical anomaly modelled as six individual conductive plates within challenging terrain.

While the sulphides intersected are lightly disseminated rather than massive, their presence within a broad alteration envelope validates the geological model and strengthens confidence in the mineralised corridor. The VT1 conductor’s complexity and surface constraints have necessitated a strategic approach, prioritising the most accessible drill pad and planning downhole electromagnetic (DHEM) surveys to precisely map conductor plates and guide subsequent drilling.

Refining Targets with Advanced Geophysics

The airborne VTEM system initially identified the VT1 conductor, but its rapid survey speed and the intricate folded geology mean that airborne data alone cannot resolve the precise geometry of the sulphide bodies. To address this, Litchfield has mobilised a DHEM crew to conduct detailed downhole electromagnetic surveys, which involve energising surface loops and measuring transient electromagnetic responses around the drillhole. This technique allows the team to vector into conductive sulphides, define plate geometry, and identify off-hole targets with far greater accuracy.

Following DHEM, the company plans to deploy induced polarisation (IP) surveys and ground electromagnetic methods (FLEM/MLEM) to further delineate sulphide and alteration footprints. Complementary drone magnetics will provide high-resolution structural data across the tenement, integrating with geochemical and geological information to produce a comprehensive 3D lithostructural model.

Encouraging Surface Mineralisation and Accelerated Exploration

Adding to the excitement, rock chip assays from a gossanous outcrop directly above the VT1 conductor have returned encouraging grades of copper (0.6%), gold (0.6 g/t), silver (14 g/t), and tellurium (7 g/t). These surface indications support the hypothesis of a large-scale intrusion-related hydrothermal system driving mineralisation along a major structural corridor.

Litchfield’s managing director emphasised the company’s data-driven and rapid exploration approach, noting that the initial 14-hole campaign was designed to answer system-level questions rather than refine targets prematurely. The current 3 to 5-month program, which many explorers might extend over two years, reflects a decisive strategy to solve the geological puzzle quickly and create shareholder value.

Looking Ahead – Integrated Models and Target Prioritisation

The integration of DHEM, IP, ground EM, drone magnetics, and drilling data is expected to yield a detailed 3D model of the Oonagalabi corridor’s mineralisation and structure. This model will enable Litchfield to rank and prioritize drill targets for the next phase of exploration, including both reverse circulation and diamond drilling. Laboratory assays are pending to confirm preliminary pXRF results, which are indicative but not definitive.

While the complex geology and terrain pose challenges, the company’s systematic and technologically advanced exploration program positions it well to unlock the potential of this promising copper-gold-silver-tellurium system.