University of Tasmania, Australia

Phase one of the project conducted at Prominent Hill had the following aims:

• Confirm the volcano-sedimentary architecture/environments of the host rock succession by graphic core logging, with follow-up petrographic analysis of key samples.
• Test the viability of using LA-ICP-MS analysis of U-bearing phases within this framework to establish a provisional chrono-stratigraphy.

This phase is now complete. Although the details of the outcomes remain confidential to OZ Minerals, it can be reported that the new chrono-stratigraphic framework for the host succession has significant implications for exploration for new IOCG deposits on the Gawler Craton.

Phase two, which commenced in October, involves applying the chrono-stratigraphic framework developed for the mine area to a number of regional prospects in the Mount Woods Inlier, and attempting to date the sulfide mineralisation.