Catalina Resources Unveils Upgraded Laverton Results: High-Grade Gold, REE Confirmed

Key Highlights

• Upgraded assays confirm high-grade gold and rare earth element (REE) mineralization.
• Supergene gold anomaly identified near the Barnicoat Shear Zone.
• Proximity to Mt. Weld REE Mine boosts exploration potential.
• Follow-up drilling programs planned for deeper gold and REE exploration.

Catalina Resources Limited (ASX:CTN) continues to strengthen its exploration narrative with upgraded assay results from the Laverton Project (E38/3697). The re-analysis of aircore drill intersections has unveiled significant gold and REE mineralization, enhancing the project's potential in the region known for its rich mineral resources.

Upgraded Gold Intersections Bolster Prospects

The Laverton Project yielded promising results during the re-sampling of 1-meter split samples using advanced fire assay techniques. Highlighted by the substantial 28m @ 1.09g/t Au from 57m in drill hole LVAC049, the results included a standout 1m interval at 9.69g/t Au.

The findings suggest a broad supergene gold anomaly situated in the laterite profile. Notably, the anomaly trends parallel to the Barnicoat Shear Zone, a significant regional structure associated with mineralization. The gold zone in LVAC049 is believed to be directly above the bedrock source of the mineralization, signaling potential for deeper, high-grade gold systems.

The company's exploration has also identified altered and veined sediments in hole LVAC012, 50m east of LVAC049, indicative of a hydrothermal system. These findings point to the potential for a structurally controlled gold system in the area, warranting further investigation.

REE Discoveries Elevate Laverton’s Value

Catalina Resources’ (ASX:CTN) exploration efforts at Laverton are not limited to gold. The upgraded rare earth element (REE) assay results, achieved through peroxide fusion methods, showcase the project's diversity and potential for REE mineralization.

Key intersections include:

• 9m @ 7,565ppm TREO from 47m in LVAC037, including 4m @ 13,406ppm (1.34%) TREO.
• 5m @ 4,880ppm TREO from 63m in LVAC044, including 1m @ 10,689ppm (1.06%) TREO.

The REE values are particularly significant due to their proximity to the Mt. Weld REE Mine, one of the world’s premier REE deposits. Initial exploration focused on magnetic anomalies interpreted as intrusions related to the carbonatite system at Mt. Weld. The presence of high-grade REE values in the laterite profile reaffirms the potential for economic REE mineralization.

Unexpectedly, REE anomalies were also identified in the gold target area further south, despite the absence of prominent magnetic anomalies. These intersections, such as the 9m @ 7,565ppm TREO in LVAC037, highlight the unexplored potential of the region.

Supergene Gold and REE Synergy

The dual discovery of gold and REE mineralization at Laverton underscores the project's strategic importance. The overlap of these resources not only enhances the economic viability but also offers synergies for exploration and development.

Catalina Resources’ (ASX:CTN) focus on supergene mineralization in the laterite profile has provided insights into deeper sulphidic gold and potential REE sources. The findings suggest that the Barnicoat Shear Zone could host significant mineralization, necessitating further structural and lithological analysis.

Next Steps in Exploration

Encouraged by these results, Catalina Resources (ASX:CTN) is gearing up for an aggressive follow-up drilling campaign. The program aims to:

• Test Bedrock Sources: Delve deeper into the source of supergene gold mineralization.
• Expand REE Exploration: Extend drilling around known REE anomalies and investigate their relationship with the Mt. Weld carbonatite.
• Refine Structural Understanding: Assess the fault splays of the Barnicoat Shear Zone to better target mineralization.

The planned drilling program will utilize tighter spacing to define mineralized trends more precisely, particularly in the vicinity of LVAC049 and LVAC037.

Strategic Implications for Catalina Resources

The Laverton Project's upgraded assay results reinforce Catalina Resources' (ASX:CTN) position as a significant player in Australia's mineral exploration sector. The project's dual focus on gold and REE aligns with growing global demand for these resources.

Gold Outlook:

Gold remains a cornerstone of the global economy, and discoveries like Laverton's high-grade intersections bolster investor confidence. Catalina Resources’ (ASX:CTN) focus on defining and expanding these gold resources could attract strategic partnerships and funding.

REE Relevance:

Rare earth elements are critical for the transition to a green economy, playing key roles in renewable energy technologies, electric vehicles, and electronics. Laverton's proximity to the Mt. Weld REE Mine provides a competitive advantage, potentially positioning Catalina Resources (ASX:CTN) as a supplier in this high-demand market.

Proximity to Infrastructure: A Strategic Advantage

The Laverton Project's location offers a unique advantage with access to established mining infrastructure in Western Australia. Its proximity to world-class operations such as the Mt. Weld REE Mine and other significant gold-producing regions ensure logistical ease for future development.

Nearby transportation networks, including roads and ports, enhance the project's economic feasibility, reducing potential costs associated with mineral extraction and transportation. This infrastructure positions Catalina Resources (ASX:CTN) to expedite exploration activities and transition smoothly into the development phase.

The Growing Demand for Critical Minerals

The global transition toward renewable energy and advanced technology has heightened the demand for gold and rare earth elements (REEs). Gold remains a safe haven for investors and a key component in electronics, while REEs are essential for wind turbines, electric vehicles, and high-performance magnets.

Catalina Resources (ASX:CTN) is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend. With countries worldwide striving for energy independence and supply chain stability, the Laverton Project could play a vital role in meeting these demands. This aligns the project with broader economic and geopolitical priorities, increasing its strategic importance.

Catalina Resources (ASX:CTN) emphasizes sustainable exploration practices, ensuring minimal environmental impact and fostering positive relationships with local communities. Laverton's exploration activities have been conducted with a focus on preserving the surrounding ecosystem while creating economic opportunities in the region.

The company is committed to engaging with stakeholders, including traditional landowners, to ensure that exploration and potential development align with ethical and environmental standards. By integrating sustainability into its operations, Catalina Resources (ASX:CTN) is setting a benchmark for responsible resource development.

Laverton: A Project with Transformational Potential

Catalina Resources’ (ASX:CTN) Laverton Project exemplifies the transformative potential of systematic exploration. By leveraging advanced analytical methods, the company has not only validated previous findings but also uncovered new opportunities for resource expansion.

As the global demand for gold and REEs continues to rise, Laverton’s strategic location, promising assay results, and multi-resource potential position it as a key asset in Catalina Resources’ (ASX:CTN) portfolio. The upcoming drilling campaigns will be pivotal in unlocking the project's full potential.