New results from geophysical surveys in Mount Isa region

Results from the latest two geophysical surveys under the Queensland Government’s Smart Exploration initiative have been released.

Minister for Mines and Energy Geoff Wilson said the results from the two surveys will help stimulate mining exploration activity in the North West Queensland Mineral Province.

“The first survey was an airborne geophysical survey covering the Isa South (East) district, south of Springvale.

“A gravity survey was conducted over the Isa C district, south of Mount Isa.

“The two surveys are the third of their type that the Queensland Government has completed in the MountIsa region,” Mr Wilson said.

“Smart Exploration is a $20 million project targeting four areas across Queensland that have the highest potential for the discovery of additional mineral and energy resources.

“The Department of Mines and Energy has targeted the Mount Isa region because it is a world-class mineral province with great potential for further discoveries,” Mr Wilson said.

The airborne geophysical survey, which measures magnetic and radiometric responses as well as acquiring digital elevation data, covered an area of 35,000 square kilometres. Over 100,000 line kilometres of data was collected on lines spaced 400 meters apart.

The gravity survey, which measures the density contrast of rocks, covered over 68,400 square kilometres. Data was collected at 9,000 stations, partly in a two-kilometre by two-kilometre grid pattern, and partly in a four-kilometre by four-kilometre grid pattern.

Mr Wilson said the results from the surveys could be used with other information such as seismic data, geological maps, and drill hole information to help exploration companies to target prospective areas.

“Information from these surveys will help explorers narrow down regions to look for minerals.

“It will also help to reduce the cost, risk and uncertainty involved in exploration.”

Member for Mount Isa Betty Kiernan said the North West Queensland Mineral Province around Mount Isa covers a large area that represents the economic future for the region.

“Mining has been the lifeblood of Mount Isa for decades.

“This survey work will help find the mineral resources that will bring the mines and the jobs of the future,” she said.

Further airborne geophysical surveys under the Queensland Government’s Smart Exploration initiative are underway in the Mount Isa region and will be released as the data becomes available.

Information released from all Smart Exploration surveys is available on DVD from sales@nrm.qld.gov.au or online at Geoscience Australia www.geoscience.gov.au/gadds.

Media inquiries: Brooke Johnson (07) 3224 7332