Minnova, Freewest start drill programs

Toronto-based Minnova (TSE) has started drilling on the Benoit Twp. gold property in northwestern Quebec, reports partner Freewest Resources (TSE).

The 2-rig, 13,000-ft. program will test the known gold zone and geophysical targets.

Minnova can earn a 51% interest in the Benoit property by spending $4 million on exploration and development over four years and paying Freewest $400,000 over five years.

Preliminary reserves at Benoit stand at 530,000 tons grading 0.16 oz. gold per ton.

A second-phase drilling program is also under way on a property in nearby Verneuil Twp., where Freewest is earning a 50% interest from Golden Tag Resources (VSE) and Consolidated Gold Hawk Resources (ASE).