Update on Kallona Program of Work
- Mapping sampling and geophysical work completed
- Priority on manganese targets
- Nickel-copper targets also identified
- Near-term 85 hole RC drilling program planned
Introduction
Condor Metal’s Kallona Creek project area is approximately 70 km southeast of the Nullagine township in the East Pilbara, Western Australia. The project area contains outcropping Marra Mamba Iron Formation and manganese bearing Carawine Dolomite, largely covered by weathered and transported material, which is why the area had not previously attracted attention.
Rock chip samples taken by Condor from the Carawine Dolomite contained 27-38% manganese. The project area is considered prospective for both iron ore and manganese deposits.
Manganese is a particularly attractive commodity at present due to demand keeping prices high and contracts available. The ease of processing and handling of the metal ensures infrastructure requirements are kept low.
Planned Work Program
In late 2010 Condor Metals commissioned Southern Geoscience Consultants to manage a VTEM survey on the Kallona tenement (see Fig 1 of the ASX announcement). VTEM is an airborne geophysical tool which allows the detection and delineation of shallow to moderate depth conductive ground. It enables the mapping of lithological units and faults that would influence deposits of manganese. Magnetic data was also collected to help with the distribution and structural setting of the bedrock.
Kollana’s conductive zones, while similar in nature to other manganese deposits such as Woodie Woodie, cover significantly large areas (see Fig 2 of the ASX announcement). Drill testing of a selection of the higher priority anomalies will be undertaken as part of an initial assessment of the mineralisation of the conductivity zones.
The aeromagnetic survey also identified a substantial and unexpected, strongly magnetic complex occupying the central western portion of the survey area. The source and nature of the complex has not been conclusively identified as yet. The complex, and associated structures, may influence the distribution of manganese mineralisation. If it is part of a large mafic – ultramafic intrusive, it has potential to host nickel – copper sulphide mineralisation (see Fig 3 of the ASX announcement). This will be a secondary objective of the initial exploration program.
A program of 85 reverse circulation holes has been designed and budgeted. Approval of the Program of Work has been received and preparation of site clearance work has commenced.
Comment:
Condor’s COO John McKinstry commented, “Kallona has all the hallmarks of a great exploration target. We have done the groundwork in preparation for drilling and expect this to be underway in the latter half of May”
“The urgency of driving the activity has highlighted the need for a high calibre Exploration Manager to ensure that activities at Kallona, as well as Condor’s other project areas, get the attention they deserve. Condor is actively looking for a person to fill this role and we hope to be able to make an appointment in the near term.
“Kollana is the first significant work to be carried out by Condor Metals. Despite informal interest from a number of external parties the Board feels strongly that the first round of evaluation work should be conducted 100% by Condor.”
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