Estrella Resources Limited (ASX: ESR) has announced continued success in its drilling program at the Ira Miri prospect in Timor-Leste, targeting secondary manganese mineralisation just below the surface following previous high-grade intersections to the west.
Recent drillholes have returned promising visual estimates, with EMDD025 intersecting 2.5 metres at 70 per cent manganese oxides from 1 metre, EMDD026 hitting 3.1 metres at 60 per cent manganese oxides from 1.4 metres, and EMDD027 intersecting 1.6 metres at 30 per cent manganese oxides from 1.4 metres.
Assay results for these intersections are expected within the next four to six weeks.
The current drilling program is focused on identifying secondary high-grade manganese mineralisation close to the surface, supporting Estrella’s exploration strategy.
Complementing the drilling, LiDAR and Drone-Mag surveys are being conducted at Ira Miri to assist the MobileMTd surveys and refine manganese drill targets.
Meanwhile, a LiDAR survey has been completed at the Werumata Limestone Project as part of final arrangements that include community consultations and environmental applications.
Drilling at Werumata is scheduled to commence once approvals from the National Directorate of Mineral Resources (ANM) are secured and after the construction of all-weather access roads.
While awaiting environmental approvals for Werumata, the company continues step-out drilling at Ira Miri.
Once approvals are received, the drilling rig will be reconfigured to focus on limestone extraction at Werumata.
Estrella’s Managing Director, Chris Daws, commented on the recent progress and results: “It is comforting to see more manganese intersected in the current drill program at Ira Miri, expanding on the already exceptional initial manganese assay results recently returned.
Daws stated that drilling operations are progressing steadily as the teams have now established a consistent pace with exploration activities in Timor-Leste.
He acknowledged the dedication of everyone involved, highlighting that this effort has enabled Estrella to conduct the first significant modern mineral exploration drilling in the country.
Daws expressed gratitude towards partners Murak Rai Timor E.P., Coresearch, AMIT, and the government agencies ANM, IGTL, and relevant ministries for their support.
He also looked forward to additional results before the end of the year, encouraging continued interest and engagement, ending with a rallying call of “GO ESTRELLA!”.
This ongoing exploration underscores Estrella’s commitment to advancing manganese and limestone projects in Timor-Leste, with significant milestones anticipated in the months ahead.
