Kuniko Completes Major Geophysics Survey and Launches Field Campaign at Commonwealth Gold-Silver Project
Kuniko Limited (ASX: KNI) has reached a significant milestone in advancing its Commonwealth Gold-Silver Project in New South Wales, completing a comprehensive 328 line-kilometre airborne geophysical survey and launching active field sampling programs. The Kuniko Ltd geophysics survey completion represents a crucial technical achievement that positions the company for its maiden drilling campaign targeting early 2026, marking a pivotal phase in unlocking the potential of this strategic asset in the prolific Lachlan Fold Belt.
The completed high-resolution MobileMT™ airborne survey covered the entire Commonwealth-Silica Hill corridor, designed to detect sulphide conductors and map structural controls on mineralisation. Furthermore, field crews have mobilised to collect 630 soil samples across key prospects, with historical rock chip results showing exceptional grades of 9.9 g/t gold, 3.2% copper, and 2,550 g/t silver at the Gladstone West prospect.
CEO Commentary:
"Completion of the airborne geophysics marks another important step forward in advancing the Commonwealth Gold-Silver Project. With fieldwork now active and drilling preparations underway, these early programs are delivering the information needed to refine and prioritise high-quality targets across one of the most prospective gold-silver systems in the Lachlan Fold Belt."
— Antony Beckmand, CEO
Geophysical Survey Delivers Critical Subsurface Intelligence
The recently completed airborne geophysical program represents a major technical achievement for Kuniko, providing unprecedented subsurface detail across the Commonwealth-Silica Hill corridor. Conducted by Expert Geophysics Surveys Inc., the survey targeted the Nindethana Fault, a first-order structural zone controlling VMS-style mineralisation throughout the region.
The Kuniko Ltd geophysics survey completion has delivered comprehensive data that will serve as the foundation for future drilling activities. In addition, this systematic approach demonstrates the company's commitment to data-driven exploration methodologies.
Key Survey Specifications:
• 328 line-kilometres of high-resolution MobileMT™ coverage
• Full contractual coverage achieved across Commonwealth-Silica Hill corridor
• 3D resistivity models in development for drill target refinement
• Final processed datasets expected later this month
The survey methodology specifically targets discrete sulphide conductors and alteration zones at depth—critical indicators for precious and base metal deposits. This comprehensive geophysical dataset will serve as the foundation for Kuniko's upcoming drilling campaign, enabling precise targeting of high-priority zones around known mineralisation and along strike extensions.
The strong cooperation from local landholders throughout the program demonstrates the community support that will be essential for future operations. Consequently, this ensures sustainable access for expanded exploration activities.
Active Field Sampling Targets High-Grade Zones
Following the successful Kuniko Ltd geophysics survey completion, the company has launched systematic soil and rock-chip sampling programs across two priority prospects. These programs are designed to fulfil joint-venture commitments while generating critical targeting data ahead of drilling.
The 630 planned samples will provide surface geochemical vectors to guide near-term drill targeting and de-risk initial drilling phases. However, the success of these programs will depend on continued favourable weather conditions and landholder cooperation.
Geenobby Prospect Field Program
| Prospect Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Licence | EL8252 |
| Planned Samples | 280 soil samples |
| Historical Results | Up to 9.5 g/t Au and 215 g/t Ag |
| Pathfinder Elements | 745 ppm Bi, 519 ppm Mo, 40 ppm Te |
| System Type | Interpreted epithermal system |
Gladstone West Prospect Field Program
| Prospect Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Licence | EL8505 |
| Planned Samples | 352 soil samples |
| Target Area | 2-kilometre magnetic destruction zone |
| Historical Peak Results | 9.9 g/t Au, 3.2% Cu, 2,550 g/t Ag |
The systematic sampling approach across both prospects will test areas where historical results have demonstrated exceptional precious and base metal grades. For instance, the presence of key pathfinder elements including bismuth, molybdenum, and tellurium at Geenobby supports the interpreted epithermal system model—a deposit type known for high-grade precious metal concentrations.
Understanding VMS-Epithermal Systems: Why They Matter to Investors
Volcanogenic Massive Sulphide (VMS) and epithermal systems represent some of the world's most valuable precious and base metal deposits. These geological environments form through volcanic processes that concentrate metals into dense, high-grade zones—making them highly attractive exploration targets.
VMS systems develop when metal-rich fluids are expelled from volcanic rocks onto the seafloor, creating massive accumulations of sulphide minerals containing gold, silver, copper, zinc, and lead. Furthermore, epithermal systems form closer to surface through hot, metal-bearing fluids that deposit precious metals in veins and breccias.
The completion of the Kuniko Ltd geophysics survey completion has provided crucial insights into these geological systems at the Commonwealth Project. This data will enable more precise targeting of these high-value deposit types.
Why This Matters for Investors:
• High-grade potential: VMS-epithermal systems frequently host exceptional metal concentrations
• Multi-metal upside: Single deposits often contain valuable combinations of precious and base metals
• Proven deposit type: Similar systems have created world-class mines like Eskay Creek in Canada
• Scalable resources: These systems can extend over large areas with multiple high-grade zones
The Commonwealth Project's geological characteristics align closely with globally recognised VMS-epithermal deposits, providing a proven exploration model with significant discovery potential. In addition, the combination of existing JORC resources and extensive untested targets creates multiple pathways to value creation.
Drilling Campaign Targets Early 2026 Launch
Building on the successful Kuniko Ltd geophysics survey completion, the company has commenced contractor engagement for its maiden drilling program at Commonwealth. This marks the crucial transition from surface exploration to direct testing of high-priority targets.
The competitive tendering process focuses on contractors with proven capability and regional experience, ensuring optimal drilling outcomes. However, the selection process must balance cost considerations with technical expertise and safety records.
Drilling Program Objectives:
• Test extensions of known mineralisation at Commonwealth and Silica Hill deposits
• Evaluate new targets emerging from geophysical and geochemical programs
• Validate historical resource estimates through independent drilling
• Define additional resource zones along structural corridors
Timeline and Logistics:
• Contractor Selection: Competitive tender process underway
• Mobilisation Target: Late 2025 to early 2026
• Site Access: Existing permits and landholder agreements in place
• Drill-Ready Status: All regulatory approvals secured for rapid commencement
The timing of the drilling campaign aligns with completion of all preparatory work, including geophysical interpretation and geochemical targeting. Consequently, this systematic approach ensures maximum drilling efficiency and optimal target prioritisation when operations commence.
Strategic Position in Tier-1 Mining District Creates Significant Upside
Kuniko's Commonwealth Gold-Silver Project occupies a prime location within the Lachlan Fold Belt, approximately 100 kilometres north of Orange, NSW—placing it among some of Australia's most successful mining operations. This geological province hosts major operations including Cadia-Ridgeway, North Parkes, and Cowal, demonstrating the region's world-class mineral endowment.
Project Asset Portfolio
| Deposit | System Type | Metals | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commonwealth | VMS | Au, Ag, Zn, Pb, Cu | JORC Resource* |
| Silica Hill | Epithermal/VMS Hybrid | High-grade Ag-Au shoots | JORC Resource* |
| Regional Targets | Multiple untested | Au, Ag, Cu, Zn | Exploration stage |
*Note: Historical JORC estimates by Impact Minerals – not independently verified by Kuniko
What Are the Competitive Advantages?
Established Infrastructure: The project benefits from existing permits, landholder agreements, and proximity to established mining infrastructure, reducing development risks and capital requirements. Furthermore, the successful Kuniko Ltd geophysics survey completion has enhanced the technical understanding of the asset.
Proven Geology: The VMS-epithermal geological model is well-understood and has created numerous world-class deposits globally, providing a proven exploration framework.
Multiple Discovery Opportunities: Beyond the existing resource areas, the project encompasses multiple untested targets including Silica Hill East, Geenobby, and Gladstone prospects. For instance, this creates numerous value creation pathways for investors.
Strategic Earn-In Structure: Kuniko can earn up to 70% interest in the project through its joint-venture with Impact Minerals, providing significant leverage to any discoveries while sharing early-stage risks.
The combination of established resources, extensive exploration upside, and strategic location creates a compelling investment proposition. However, investors should note that exploration success is never guaranteed, and multiple catalysts for value creation remain to be tested.
Why Should Investors Track Kuniko's Commonwealth Development?
Kuniko Limited presents a unique opportunity for investors seeking exposure to precious and base metals exploration with near-term drilling catalysts and significant discovery potential. The company's systematic approach to the Commonwealth Project, combined with its diversified portfolio of critical mineral assets, positions it as a strategic play on the global energy transition.
The recent Kuniko Ltd geophysics survey completion represents just one component of the company's comprehensive exploration strategy. Furthermore, this technical foundation provides confidence in the upcoming drilling campaign.
Key Investment Catalysts:
• Imminent Drilling: Maiden drilling campaign targeting early 2026 provides near-term newsflow catalyst
• Data-Rich Targeting: Comprehensive geophysical and geochemical programs ensure high-quality drill targets
• Multiple Discovery Opportunities: Extensive untested targets beyond existing resources create upside potential
• Tier-1 Location: Prime position in prolific Lachlan Fold Belt alongside major mining operations
• Strong Technical Foundation: Experienced management team with proven track record in critical minerals
Diversified Portfolio Strength:
Beyond Commonwealth, Kuniko maintains a strategic portfolio including the Ertelien Nickel-Copper-Cobalt Project in Norway with a 40Mt @ 0.25% NiEq JORC resource and multiple battery metals projects across the Nordics. This diversification provides multiple pathways to value creation while maintaining focus on critical minerals essential for the global energy transition.
Investment Takeaway:
Kuniko has systematically de-risked its Commonwealth Gold-Silver Project through comprehensive technical programs, positioning for a high-impact drilling campaign in early 2026. With multiple high-grade targets, established resources, and a diversified critical minerals portfolio, the company offers compelling upside potential in both precious metals and battery minerals sectors. The upcoming drilling program represents a significant catalyst that could unlock substantial value across one of Australia's most prospective gold-silver systems.
The Kuniko Ltd geophysics survey completion and launch of active field programs demonstrates the company's commitment to systematic, data-driven exploration. With drilling preparations advancing and strong community support established, investors should monitor upcoming results as the company transitions into its most significant exploration phase to date.
Could Kuniko's Systematic Approach to Commonwealth Gold-Silver Unlock Significant Value?
With the completion of its comprehensive 328 line-kilometre geophysical survey and active field sampling programmes now underway, Kuniko Limited is positioning itself for a potentially transformative maiden drilling campaign in early 2026. The company's methodical approach to de-risking its Commonwealth Gold-Silver Project through data-driven exploration, combined with its strategic position in the prolific Lachlan Fold Belt and diversified critical minerals portfolio, presents compelling opportunities for investors seeking exposure to both precious metals and the energy transition. To explore how Kuniko's systematic exploration strategy and upcoming drilling catalysts could impact your investment portfolio, visit the company's investor hub for comprehensive project details, technical reports, and the latest operational updates.
