New mining data for Mount Isa region

Gravity surveys have been carried out over 172,000 square kilometres of land in the north west to measure the density of rocks in the region.

Minister for Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said data from the gravity surveys to be released this month, would help stimulate mineral exploration in the North West Mineral Province.

“It’s hoped explorers will use the data to discover any untapped mining potential in the resource-rich region. Today’s exploration will yield tomorrow’s jobs,” Mr Wilson said.

Minister Wilson said the gravity surveys were conducted as part of the State Government’s $20 million Smart Exploration initiative.

Smart Exploration targets regions across Queensland that have the highest potential for the discovery of minerals and energy resources.

“The Mount Isa region is important because it’s a world-class mineral province with great potential for further discoveries,” Mr Wilson said.

Member for Mount Isa Betty Kiernan said the latest data would help stimulate exploration and investment in the region.

“Explorers will be able to use the data with other information such as seismic data, geological maps and drill hole information to help them target prospective exploration areas.

“This way, they’ll be able to narrow down their search to areas that are considered more prospective for minerals.

“The new data will also help reduce the costs and lessen the uncertainty involved in exploration,” Mrs Kiernan said.

By using geophysical techniques, such as gravity surveys, scientists are able to ‘see’ deeper under the ground to identify rock types associated with mineralisation.

“It’s all about finding the mines of the future,” Mrs Kiernan said.

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