The Scuddles massive sulphide discovery: an exploration case history

The discovery of the Scuddles volcanogenic massive zinc-copper sulphide deposit (400 km NNE of Perth) in 1979 was the result of an integrated exploration programme. The initial diamond drill hole was proposed on the basis of anomalous copper and lead geochemistry in chloritised tuff and chert in RAB drilling across a 120 nanoTesla aeromagnetic anomaly. The first 3 holes intersected interesting but sub-economic grades of copper, lead, zinc and silver mineralisation. A Pulse EM survey was then completed and identified a moderate conductor associated with the mineralised horizon. Diamond drill hose SC-4 was drilled beneath SC-3 and intersected massive sulphide which included a section of 25.5% zinc over a true width of 6 metres. Although the next 2 holes were unmineralised, subsequent drilling quickly established that a discovery of economic significance had been made.

The discovery was made by the application of a well-planned and carefully executed exploration programme with an emphasis on direct field geological input. This result emphasises the need for flexibility in an exploration programme so that encouragement in one area can be followed up while continuing to generate and evaluate new targets.