EQ Resources aims to continue Mount Carbine’s growth trajectory with the launch of a 7700m drilling program at the same time as the operation steps up tungsten production.

Surging tungsten prices have prompted the company to take another look at the reserve position associated with its pit designs at Mount Carbine and it plans to release a resource and reserve update in late 2026.

The team gained initial access to a higher-grade orebody at the Far North Queensland mine last month, enabling a lift in production from this month.

With about 23 per cent of the current resource converted to reserve, the company said it considered the new drilling program an important step in improving geological confidence in key target zones, supporting future mine planning, and positioning Mount Carbine for further growth.

“Mount Carbine has already moved into a new phase with initial access to higher-grade in-situ ore, and this drilling program is an important next step in building on that momentum,” EQ Resources (ASX: EQR) managing director Craig Bradshaw said.

“The company sees clear value in systematically drilling the next target areas to improve geological confidence, support future mine planning and help unlock further growth at the operation.

“Importantly, extending the mine life at Mount Carbine supports more than production growth. It supports employees, contractors, local trades, regional suppliers and the broader community, while strengthening EQR’s role in delivering secure, reliable and traceable Western tungsten supply into global markets.”

The drilling program started last month and is planned to comprise 28 drill holes for about 7700m.

To date, the diamond drilling component of the program has completed five drill holes for 1900m.

EQ Resources said an RC rig (image at top of page) was mobilised to site on April 11 to support the broader program and complete additional grade control drilling. The RC rig has completed three holes for a total of 710m to date.

The company’s geology team has designed the program to focus on extensions to the existing stage 2 and stage 3 open-pit mine designs.

The target areas include infilling and extension of the Bluff, Dazzler, Iolanthe, Johnson, Ruby and Iron Duke ore zones.

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