Antares Metals, an Australian copper explorer, has recently unveiled three new copper targets for upcoming drilling at their Surprise project in Queensland. These new targets, identified through a combination of geophysical data and historical soil results, are set to be part of the Phase 2 reverse circulation drilling campaign.

Situated within Antares Metals’ broader Mt Isa North asset, approximately 80km northeast of Mount Isa, the Surprise project encompasses the abandoned high-grade copper-gold Surprise mine. Historical mining activities at this site exploited a mineralized calcite vein, yielding significant copper and gold grades. The project area also borders Paladin Energy’s Valhalla asset, known as the third largest uranium project in Australia.

Following the successful completion of various geophysical surveys, including high-definition magnetics and a 3DIP survey, Antares Metals has identified compelling anomalies leading to the discovery of three extensional copper targets near the Surprise mine. These targets, located within close proximity to the existing mineralization, have shown promising soil samples with high copper content, associated with mapped quartz and calcite veins as well as geophysical anomalies.

The correlation between the known mineralization and the identified veins has bolstered Antares Metals’ confidence in the potential of these new targets. CEO Johan Lambrechts expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming drilling campaign, emphasizing the significance of the magnetic anomalies and the 3DIP results in identifying possible extensional mineralization opportunities.

The forthcoming exploration activities are scheduled to commence shortly, pending access and native title clearances in the target areas. Antares Metals is currently in the process of selecting a suitable drill contractor to carry out the drilling work.

The company’s proactive approach to exploring and testing extensional opportunities underscores its commitment to maximizing the full potential of the Surprise project. By leveraging a combination of modern geophysical techniques and historical data, Antares Metals aims to unlock further value within their existing tenure, positioning themselves at the forefront of copper exploration in the region.