Tri Origin wraps metallurgical tests

Mixed results are reported from preliminary metallurgical tests conducted on samples from the Lewis Ponds polymetallic project in Australia.

Property owner Tri Origin Exploration (TSE) obtained the composite sample from drill holes TLPD 20 and 21. The assayed heads are 6.8 grams gold and 175 grams silver per tonne plus 0.4% copper, 3.5% lead and 5.3% zinc. Using gravity concentration and direct cyanidation, the company has recovered only between 50% and 74% of the gold. The less-than-satisfactory recoveries are attributed to difficulties associated with coarse free gold. It has been determined, however, that the cyanidation process can be performed prior to base metal flotation, thereby increasing the on-site recovery of gold bullion. Regarding the base-metal flotation tests, recoveries of copper were said to be satisfactory, while lead and zinc were deemed high.

A preliminary engineering report concludes that the Main zone contains economic mineralization, but further evaluations are needed. It also concludes that the deposit is capable of generating positive after-tax cash flow and a favorable internal rate of return.

Drilling is under way and will be followed by further metallurgical and geotechnical work. It is expected this will lead to a definitive pre-feasibility report.