How Will OD6’s New DHEM Survey Unlock Gulf Creek’s Copper Secrets?

Advancing Copper Exploration at Gulf Creek

OD6 Metals Limited has taken a significant step forward in its exploration of the Gulf Creek Copper Project in New South Wales by commencing a Downhole Electromagnetic (DHEM) survey. This geophysical technique, which detects conductive sulphide bodies from within drill holes, is designed to reveal extensions or repetitions of high-grade copper mineralisation that traditional drilling might miss.

The survey leverages data from four recently completed diamond drill holes alongside several reverse circulation (RC) holes drilled earlier this year. These combined datasets aim to build a detailed geophysical picture of the subsurface, focusing on conductive anomalies that could indicate massive sulphide bodies typical of volcanogenic massive sulphide (VMS) deposits.

Phase 2 Drilling Insights and Strategic Pause

Phase 2 drilling has targeted major geophysical anomalies at key zones including Big Bend, Northwest, West Limb, and beneath the historic Gulf Creek Mine. While only minor sulphide mineralisation was intersected so far, the drilling confirmed the presence of VMS-style stratigraphy, such as interbedded sea-floor sediments, exhalative cherts, and hydrothermal alteration, affirming the project's geological prospectivity.

Due to weather-related delays and ground conditions, OD6 Metals has temporarily paused drilling to focus on acquiring and interpreting the DHEM data. This pause is strategic, ensuring that subsequent drilling campaigns are more precisely targeted, efficient, and cost-effective. The company anticipates resuming exploration in 2026, likely reverting to faster RC drilling methods guided by the DHEM results.

Technical Collaboration and Project Potential

The DHEM survey was designed by Mitre Geophysics and is being executed by Gap Geophysics Australia, with final processed results expected early next year. OD6 Metals holds approvals for up to 25 drill holes totaling approximately 7,500 metres, underscoring the scale of its commitment to unlocking Gulf Creek's copper potential.

Managing Director Brett Hazelden highlighted the importance of this phase – "DHEM surveying is a proven method to detect high-grade sulphide bodies that drilling alone may overlook. With multiple holes completed across several targets, we are well positioned to refine our drilling strategy for 2026." He also noted that Gulf Creek complements the company's flagship Splinter Rock Rare Earth Project by diversifying OD6's exposure to high-grade copper assets in a historically significant mining district.

Historical Context and Future Outlook

Gulf Creek was once regarded as one of New South Wales' highest-grade copper mines before its closure in 1912 due to low copper prices. Since then, exploration has been limited, making OD6's application of modern geophysical techniques particularly timely amid record-high copper prices. The project’s geological setting aligns with the Besshi-style VMS model, known for its association between magnetite and massive sulphides, which OD6 has confirmed through geophysical modelling and drilling.

As the company awaits the DHEM survey results and laboratory analyses of diamond core samples, the market will be watching closely to see if these advanced exploration methods translate into new high-grade copper discoveries that could underpin future development.