Great Atlantic Resources Corp. has provided an operational update on its bulk sample program at the Jaclyn Main Zone (JMZ) within the Golden Promise property in central Newfoundland. The program, conducted in partnership with Novamera Inc., has faced significant delays and unexpected equipment challenges, particularly related to parts availability and repeated issues with the directional drilling head. These challenges, while not uncommon when introducing new and innovative technologies, have caused delays and contributed to cost overruns that have exceeded the initial budget.
The bulk sample program, originally scheduled to begin in early July with completion targeted for September, has seen the drill advance to approximately 29 metres to date. The hole is entering a geological zone defined by Great Atlantic’s 2024 historic drilling, which included notable gold intercepts. Despite these setbacks, the drill is now turning and progressing at a rate of approximately 2 meters per day.
Novamera is currently in discussions with Great Atlantic to evaluate whether the remaining target areas can still be reached without the directional head being operational should issues continue unresolved. Discussions also continue regarding additional cost overruns and any additional funding that may be required to complete the entire program. Preliminary estimates indicate a possible additional $1,000,000 in funding above the program’s original budget may be needed to complete the balance of the planned program.
David Martin, P.Geo., VP Exploration for Great Atlantic, approved the technical information contained in this news release. The company is committed to providing updates as new information becomes available, ensuring transparency and keeping stakeholders informed.
This news shapes the development in the sector by highlighting the realities of implementing innovative technologies in the mining industry. While the potential benefits of Novamera’s Surgical Mining technology are significant, the challenges faced by Great Atlantic and Novamera underscore the importance of thorough testing and preparation before full-scale deployment. The sector must balance the drive for innovation with the need for reliability and cost-effectiveness.
The mining industry has long been a sector of innovation, with companies constantly seeking new technologies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact. However, the introduction of new technologies often comes with challenges, as seen in this case. The sector must learn from these experiences to better prepare for future implementations.
Moreover, this news highlights the importance of strategic partnerships in the mining industry. Great Atlantic’s collaboration with Novamera demonstrates how companies can leverage external expertise to advance their projects. However, it also underscores the need for clear communication and mutual understanding of risks and responsibilities.
As the mining industry continues to evolve, companies must be prepared to navigate the complexities of integrating new technologies. The experiences of Great Atlantic and Novamera serve as a valuable case study for the sector, providing insights into the challenges and opportunities of innovation in mining. The sector must continue to foster a culture of innovation while ensuring that new technologies are thoroughly tested and integrated responsibly.