Clean, High‐Purity In‐Situ SiO2 Grade Continues In Queensland
Emerging silica sand developer and explorer, Diatreme Resources Limited (ASX: DRX) has unveiled a further significant increase in the total JORC Mineral Resource estimate for its Galalar Silica Project (GSP) in North Queensland.
The 22% increase from 61.9 Mt to 75.5 Mt highlights the continuity of the project’s world‐class, high‐purity silica resource.
The resource update is based on exploration and drilling campaigns up until September 2021, and was prepared by independent consultants Ausrocks Pty Ltd.
CEO, Neil McIntyre, said the total resource covers an area of approximately 486 ha (up from 335 ha) with an average thickness of 15.5 m, which comprises 92.9% of the Mining Lease Application (MLA) 100235 (523 ha).
“We are delighted by the further expansion of our flagship Galalar Project which is strategically positioned as a key and environmentally sustainable supplier of premium‐quality silica to Asia’s fast growing solar PV industry, amid growing supply concerns,” Mr McIntyre said.
“Galalar has the potential to be a long‐term silica operation that generates valuable new jobs and investment for the local communities of Hope Vale and Cooktown, and together with its potential for downstream processing opportunities in Townsville has the potential to give the whole region a boost in its post‐pandemic recovery.”
Mr McIntyre said the Company also continues to progress its low‐impact exploration program near Cape Flattery within Exploration Permit for Minerals 17795, focussing on priority targets Silica Target 1 (Si1) and Silica Target 2 (Si2).
Consultations with the Traditional Owners to avoid and minimise environmental and cultural heritage impacts are ongoing. It is anticipated the results from Si1 and Si2 will add to the company’s growing silica resource inventory.
The company is advancing the regulatory approval process, Preliminary Feasibility Study (due in the coming weeks) and Definitive Feasibility Study to ensure the project plays a role in the region’s recovery from the impact of COVID‐19.
The draft EIS is now being finalised with a target of receiving the necessary environmental approvals and grant of MLA 100235 in the first quarter of CY 2022 and potential first production in late 2022.
For further information please visit: https://diatreme.com.au/
