Estrella Resources has reported a string of high-grade multi-commodity discoveries at its concession portfolio in the unexplored nation of Timor-Leste.
The latest mapping and sampling program has yielded high-grade rock-chip assay results, including copper-bearing oxidised massive sulphides at the Sica prospect.
The standout sample returned an exceptional grade of 60.34 per cent copper, 182 grams per tonne silver, and 0.75 per cent nickel. A second sample from the same area graded 50.8 per cent copper.
In tandem with the Sica results, Estrella has defined the new Daudere prospect, located approximately five kilometres southwest.
Sampling at Daudere encountered oxidised copper mineralisation grading 12.4 per cent copper and 77 grams per tonne silver hosted within the Noni Formation.
Multiple manganese samples from the same prospect also returned remarkably consistent high grades, averaging 51.7 per cent manganese.
Geological analysis suggests the mineralisation across both prospects may be interconnected. Quantitative X-ray diffraction (Q-XRD) testing supports a common hydrothermal origin tied to the massive Laleno Dome.
Measuring nearly 700 metres in height and 10 kilometres in width, the dominant geological structure sits squarely in the middle of Estrella’s Timorese landholdings.
Estrella Managing Director Robert Mencel praised the exploration team’s early-mover success, stating that it is the first time the company has systematically mapped the massive dome structure to determine its regional significance.
“Based on these initial assays, it’s fair to say we are very pleased with the results so far,” Mencel said.
“The question now is: just how special is the Laleno Dome? The planned regional geophysical survey will help answer that.”
Moving forward, the company is accelerating its exploration activities, with resistivity and induced polarisation surveys slated to commence in mid-July across the Ira Miri, Leuro, and Sica targets.
Final results from a preliminary drone-borne magneto-telluric survey at Ira Miri are also expected by the end of the month.
Commercial activities are also progressing well, with nine separate parties expressing interest in purchasing a trial parcel of manganese, and a final sale recommendation is expected to reach the board shortly.
