A mini exploration rush in the north west

Four areas in north-west Queensland with potential for mineral deposits have sparked international exploration interest, Minister for Mines and Energy Geoff Wilson said today.

Minister Wilson said two groups were given first right to apply for exploration permits - Gold Aura and a Korean consortium.

“Today’s exploration will yield tomorrow’s jobs. The two groups came up with competitive proposals and the challenge facing them is to explore these areas to discover their true potential,” Mr Wilson said.

“We want to spark a mini exploration rush to find the mineral deposits that will be the mines and jobs of the future.

Mr Wilson said the groups would explore four restricted areas in the North West Minerals Province.

“The State Government has temporarily taken those areas off the market for exploration. This gives companies the opportunity to assess geophysical data and compete fairly for exploration permits.

“The North West Minerals Province is one of the richest mineral provinces in the world and we’ve invested $20 million under our Smart Exploration program to collect data that will pinpoint areas with high potential for mineral and energy discoveries.

“We provide that data openly and fairly to everyone because we want to create the best possible exploration outcome for Queensland.”

Gold Aura’s application covers more than 280 square kilometres of land, about 100 kilometres west-southwest of Mount Isa.

The Korean consortium’s application covers more than 1,600 square kilometres, about 200 kilometres west-southwest of Mount Isa. The consortium is made up of Hanwha Australia, Sun Metals Corporation and KORES Australia, and will operate through contractor Minarco Asia Pacific, an independent consulting group.

Member for Mount Isa, Betty Kiernan welcomed the opening up of new exploration areas for potential discovery.

“We live and work in such a resource-rich region and these new exploration areas have the potential to bring about even more exciting mineral discoveries,” Mrs Kiernan said.

“It’s a great boost for mineral exploration in the region and that’s good for the local economy and the people who live and work here,” she said.

Media Inquiries: Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819