New airborne data to attract exploration

Results from the latest airborne survey in north-west Queensland will help stimulate mining exploration activity in the North West Minerals Province.

Minister for Mines and Energy Geoff Wilson said the survey results could lead to the discovery of additional mineral deposits in the region.

“The Mount Isa region is one of the best places in the world for base metals such as copper, lead and zinc,” Mr Wilson said.

The survey criss-crossed 36,000 square kilometres of the MountIsa region.

Mr Wilson said the results were the second to be released in the region under the Queensland Government’s $20-million Smart Exploration Program.

“The magnetic and radiometric data have been processed and are now available.

“There will be further airborne surveys in the region and the results will be progressively released throughout the year,” he said.

“Once the surveys are completed, the surface and undercover parts of the North West Minerals Province will be fully covered by modern airborne magnetic and radiometric surveys.

“The results from these surveys, along with gravity data and previous exploration company information help explorers identify and target prospective areas.

“This information will help reduce the cost, risk and uncertainty involved in exploration,” he said.

Mr Wilson said the Department of Mines and Energy had identified five areas of interest that were now under restricted status.

Potential explorers will be invited to apply for these five areas. They are expected to become available in the second half of this year.

Member for Mount Isa Betty Kiernan said the survey results had the potential to create many new opportunities for explorers in the region.

“The Smart Exploration Program is a boom for the Isa,” Mrs Kiernan.

“It is designed to attract Australian and international explorers to invest in the discovery of new mineral resources for Queensland,” she said.

Media Inquiries: Brooke Johnson (07) 3224 7332