National Storage Mechanism | Additional information
RNS Number : 8040T
Cobra Resources PLC
04 August 2025
 

Logo Description automatically generated

THIS ANNOUNCEMENT CONTAINS INSIDE INFORMATION FOR THE PURPOSES OF ARTICLE 7 OF REGULATION 2014/596/EU WHICH IS PART OF DOMESTIC UK LAW PURSUANT TO THE MARKET ABUSE (AMENDMENT) (EU EXIT) REGULATIONS (SI 2019/310) ("UK MAR"). UPON THE PUBLICATION OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT, THIS INSIDE INFORMATION (AS DEFINED IN UK MAR) IS NOW CONSIDERED TO BE IN THE PUBLIC DOMAIN.

 

NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES, AUSTRALIA, CANADA, JAPAN, THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION WHERE TO DO SO WOULD CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF THE RELEVANT LAWS OF SUCH JURISDICTION.

 

4 August 2025

 

Cobra Resources plc

("Cobra" or the "Company")

 

Confirmation of Rare Earth ISR System Beyond Boland

 

Re-analysis results support significantly enhanced project scale

 

Cobra (LSE: COBR) , the mineral exploration and development company advancing a potentially world-class ionic Rare Earth Element ("REEs") discovery at its Boland Project ("Boland") in South Australia, is pleased to announce initial results from re-analysis of historical, uranium-focused rotary mud drilling from a recently acquired tenement (EL 6742) that covers over 750km2 of the prospective Yaninee Palaeochannel system (part of the package of tenements acquired from Tri-Star Group announced on 27 May 2025).

 

Results indicate the presence of a REE system with characteristics reflective of Boland on the Narlaby Palaeochannel 10-20km to the northeast. This significantly increases the scale of the ionic REE system within the Pidinga Formation amenable to low-cost, low disturbance In Situ Recovery ("ISR"). Initial results define two large higher-grade zones exceeding 80 km2 that flank the main incised channel, reflecting similar depositional geology to the Boland Prospect.

 

Assay results have been derived from a drilling method that does not generate a sample representative of the unique ionic REE mineralising system. The results generated from re-analysis exceed initial results at Boland, where subsequent Aircore and Sonic core drilling delivered high-grade, REE mineralisation enriched in terbium and dysprosium within confined permeable geology.

 

Rupert Verco, Managing Director of Cobra, commented :

 

"The extremely favourable results of our recent metallurgical testing have given us the confidence to accelerate exploration over our vast footprint. The utilisation of existing samples retained at the South Australian Drill Core Reference Library allows us to refine targeting over a massive 750 square kilometres of the Yaninee Palaeochannel without the additional cost of drilling yet.

 

These initial results demonstrate that the Yaninee Palaeochannel has all the ingredients required for our ISR-amenable rare earth mineralisation. Now that confirmation of a mineralised system has been established, we will use the additional pending samples to prioritise the areas with highest prospectivity to proceed to drill targeting, where we expect to deliver higher grade intersections through more appropriate drilling and sampling methods, contributing further scale to the overall project."

 

Follow this link to watch a short video of CEO Rupert Verco explaining the results released in this announcement: https://investors.cobraplc.com/link/rD11xP

 

Background

 

Rare earth mineralisation at the Company's Boland Project is enriched in high-value magnet REEs - dysprosium and terbium. The unique geological setting enables a controlled form of ISR, a low-impact, low-cost form of mining that has bottom quartile cost potential.

 

REEs are absorbed to fine organic clays that occur within permeable palaeochannel sands of the Pidinga Formation, where ongoing metallurgical studies have demonstrated that they can be recovered at weak acidities. By combining a low capital intensity mining process with a simple flowsheet, Boland stands as an alternate, low-cost source of dysprosium and terbium with high environmental stewardship.

 

Mineralogical studies currently underway with Australia's national science agency, CSIRO, on the unique nature of Boland mineralisation have highlighted the importance of particle size distribution within the mineralised Pidinga Formation and its influence on ionic REE mineralisation.

 

Historical uranium-focused exploration was completed by rotary mud drilling, a method that enables downhole geophysical measurements but yields poor sample quality and subsequent poor recoveries of fine organic rich clays to which REEs are absorbed. The Company does not consider the results to represent true grades; however, they highlight prospective system fertility and will enable the refinement of targets for follow-up drill testing.

 

Re-analysis results of 395 samples from 11 holes demonstrate:

 

·    Enriched saprolites in contact with palaeochannel sediments, as evidenced by:

 

IR310 intersecting 8m at 2,412 ppm TREO (453 ppm Nd+Pr and 32 ppm Dy+Tb) from 16m - this area will be prioritised for follow-up definition drilling

 

·    Confirmed REE mobility and ionic absorption : Palaeochannel sediment mineralisation intersections, including:

 

IR310 intersecting 6m at 699 ppm TREO (116 ppm Nd+PR and 7 ppm Dy +Tb)

 

·    Thick zones of low-grade, ISR recoverable mineralisation within the Pidinga Formation, including:

 

IR276 intersecting 8m at 961ppm TREO (257 ppm Nd+PR and 21 ppm Dy +Tb) from 44m including 2m at 2,329ppm TREO (604 ppm Nd+PR and 50 ppm Dy +Tb) from 48m

IR 307 intersecting 10m at 390 ppm TREO (72 ppm Nd+Pr and 6 ppm Dy+Tb) from 32m

IR 819 intersecting 26m at 229 ppm TREO (39 ppm Nd+Pr and 4 ppm Dy+Tb) from 26m

 

·    Results support the potential for an ionic REE system amenable to ISR recovery over a significant scale within the Yaninee Palaeochannel

 

·    A further 1,024 results expected later this month

 

·    An emerging control on ISR recoverable mineralisation, a geological depositional sequence that flanks incised deeper channels and is interpreted to represent a flooding sequence that hosts higher grade mineralisation within the Pidinga formation.   

 

Yaninee Palaeochannel Re-Assay Results

 

620 select samples from 30 holes across the EL 6742 section of the Yaninee Palaeochannel have been received. Results demonstrate the presence of a rare earth system with characteristics reflective of Boland on the Narlaby Palaeochannel 10-20km to the northeast. The key geological indicators:

 

·    Enriched REE mineralised source - saprolite of the Hiltaba suite granite

·    Mobility of REEs from saprolites to Permeable, organic rich sediments within the Pidinga Formation

·    Overlying aquitard - Garford Formation

 

Within these components, under amenable chemical conditions, rare earths can mobilise from the enriched saprolite into the permeable and organic rich sediments. The presence of the aquitard provides a practical barrier between the upper oxidised meteoric groundwater and the lower aquifer hosting the target stratigraphy.

 

Figure 1: Significant intercept collar locations - historic sample re-analysis from EL 6742 with previously reported historic sample re-analysis from EL 6806

 

A map of the area AI-generated content may be incorrect.

 

 

 

 

Historical samples retained at the South Australian Drill Core Reference Library were drilled using rotary mud techniques. This technique does not provide suitable sample representation for this style of mineralisation but does provide indicative results that establish an understanding of the geological system and areas of higher mineralisation potential. These results allow for delineation at significant scale at a very low cost, improving targeting for maiden drill testing. Rotary mud drilling is unlikely to completely recover the fine component of a sedimentary sample, and therefore is expected to under-report ISR amenable rare earth mineralisation of this nature.

 

Figure 2: IR 819 from the Yaninee Palaeochannel intersects broad mineralisation within the Pidinga Formation, directly overlying weathered saprolite. Dark, organic rich sands in the Pidinga hosts REE mineralisation similar to Boland initial reanalysis results from Boland . Each sample bag in each photo represents a 2m drill interval

 

 

Figure 3: IR 117, a historical rotary mud drillhole located 350m from the Boland Wellfield, where subsequent sonic drilling has yielded a wellfield grade of 2,099 ppm TREO over 0.8m. Each sample bag in each photo represents a 2m drill interval

 

A group of bags of gravel AI-generated content may be incorrect.

 

Assay results recovered from rotary mud drilling are indicative results only and are expected to only reflect a portion of the fine material hosting ISR amenable rare earth mineralisation. Size fraction analysis completed by the CSIRO on samples collected from the recently completed Sonic drill programme highlight a unique particle distribution through the mineralised portion of the Pidinga Formation. The finer fraction which hosts REE mineralisation is unlikely to be adequately represented within samples recovered through this drilling technique.

 

Figure 4: CSIRO size fraction analysis image against grade from sonic drillholes, highlight the bimodal distribution of sediments within the mineralised Pidinga Formation

 

 

Next Steps

 

 

An additional 1,024 samples from the Drill Core Reference Library have been submitted for analysis. These samples will provide indicative coverage over the Narlaby and Yaninee Palaeochannels on EL 6742, EL 6774, EL 6780, and EL 6806. These samples will help in assessing a further 600km2 of prospective ground within an extension of the geological setting found at Boland.

 

The results of these sample programmes will inform scheduled on-ground exploration programmes.

 

Boland Project

 

Cobra's unique and highly scalable Boland discovery is a strategically advantageous ionic rare earth discovery where high grades of valuable heavy and magnet rare earths occur concentrated in a permeable horizon confined by impermeable clays. Bench scale ISR testing has confirmed that mineralisation is amenable to ISR mining. ISR has been used successfully for decades within geologically similar systems to recover uranium within South Australia. Results of this metallurgical test work support that, with minor optimisation, ISR techniques should enable non-invasive and low-cost production of critical REEs from Cobra's Boland discovery.

 

Further information relating to Boland and these drilling results are presented in the appendices.

 

Enquiries:

 

Cobra Resources plc

Rupert Verco (Australia)

Dan Maling (UK)

 

via Vigo Consulting

+44 (0)20 7390 0234

 

 

SI Capital Limited (Joint Broker)

Nick Emerson

Sam Lomanto

 

+44 (0)1483 413 500

 

                                                                                         

 

Global Investment Strategy (Joint Broker)

James Sheehan

+44 (0)20 7048 9437

james.sheehan@gisukltd.com

Vigo Consulting (Financial Public Relations)

Ben Simons

Kendall Hill

+44 (0)20 7390 0234

cobra@vigoconsulting.com

 

The person who arranged for the release of this announcement was Rupert Verco, Managing Director of the Company.

 

Information in this announcement relates to exploration results that have been reported in the following announcements:

 

·    "Favourable Boland Metallurgical Results", dated 21st July 2025

·    "Land Acquisition for Boland project Expansion", dated 27th May 2025

·    "Yarranna Southeast Re-Assay Results", dated 26th June 2024

·    "Boland Re-Assay Results", Dated 30th May 2024

·    Wudinna Project Update: " Re-Assay Results Confirm High Grades Over Exceptional Scale at Boland ", dated 26 April 2024

·    "Historical Drillhole Re-Assay Results", Dated 27 February 2024

 

Competent Persons Statement

 

Information and data presented within this announcement has been compiled by Mr Robert Blythman, a Member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists ("MAIG"). Mr Blythman is a Consultant to Cobra Resources Plc and has sufficient experience, which is relevant to the style of mineralisation, deposit type and to the activity which he is undertaking to qualify as a Competent Person defined by the 2012 Edition of the Australasian Code for Reporting Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (the "JORC" Code). This includes 12 years of Mining, Resource Estimation and Exploration relevant to the style of mineralisation.

 

Information in this announcement has been assessed by Mr Rupert Verco, a Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. Mr Verco is an employee of Cobra and has more than 17 years' industry experience which is relevant to the style of mineralisation, deposit type, and activity which he is undertaking to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the Australasian Code for Reporting Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves of JORC. This includes 13 years of Mining, Resource Estimation and Exploration.

 

About Cobra

 

In 2023, Cobra discovered a rare earth deposit with the potential to re-define the cost of rare earth production. The highly scalable Boland ionic rare earth discovery at Cobra's Wudinna Project in South Australia's Gawler Craton is Australia's only rare earth project amenable for in situ recovery (ISR) mining - a low cost, low disturbance method enabling bottom quartile recovery costs without any need for excavation or ground disturbance. Cobra is focused on de-risking the investment value of the discovery by proving ISR as the preferred mining method and testing the scale of the mineralisation footprint through drilling.

 

Cobra's Wudinna tenements also contain extensive orogenic gold mineralisation, including a 279,000 Oz gold JORC Mineral Resource Estimate, characterised by low levels of over-burden, amenable to open pit mining.

 

Appendix Figure 1: Regional map showing Cobra's tenements in the heart of the Gawler Craton

 

 

 

Follow us on social media:

 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cobraresourcesplc   

X: https://twitter.com/Cobra_Resources

 

Engage with us by asking questions, watching video summaries and seeing what other shareholders have to say. Navigate to our Interactive Investor hub here: https://investors.cobraplc.com/

 

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Appendix 1: Background information - the Boland Project and ISR

 

·    The Boland Project was discovered by Cobra in 2023. Mineralisation is ionically bound to clays and organics within palaeochannel sands within the Narlaby Palaeochannel

 

·    Mineralisation occurs within a permeable sand within an aquifer that is saltier than sea water and is confined by impermeable clays

·    ISR is executed through engineered drillhole arrays that allow the injection of mildly acidic ammonium or magnesium sulphate lixiviants, using the confining nature of the geology to direct and lower the acidity of the orebody. This low-cost process enables mines to operate profitably at lower grades and lower rates of recovery

·    Once REEs are mobile in solution in groundwater, it is also possible, from an engineering standpoint, to recover the solution to surface via extraction drillholes, without any need for excavation or ground disturbance

·    The capital costs of ISR mining are low as they involve no material movements and do not require traditional infrastructure to process ore - i.e. metals are recovered in solution

 

·    Ionic mineralisation is highly desirable owing to its high weighting of valuable HREOs and the cost-effective method in which REEs can be desorbed

 

·    Ionic REE mineralisation in China is mined in an in-situ manner that relies on gravity to permeate mineralisation. The style of ISR process is unconfined and cannot be controlled, increasing the risk for environmental degradation. This low-cost process has enabled China to dominate mine supply of HREOs, supplying over 90% globally

·    Confined aquifer ISR is successfully executed globally within the uranium industry, accounting for more than 60% of the world's uranium production. This style of ISR has temporary ground disturbance, and the ground waters are regenerated over time

·    Cobra is aiming to demonstrate the economic and environmental benefits of recovering ionic HREOs through the more environmentally aquifer controlled ISR - a world first for rare earths

 

Appendix Figure 2 : Comparison between the Chinese and the proposed Boland process for ISR mining of REEs

 

A diagram of a soil layer Description automatically generated

 

*one sample from IR 819 within the mineralised zone was destroyed during lab preparation. A length weighted average of the intercept has been applied, inclusive of the missing interval.

 

Appendix 2: Drill collar locations

 

Hole Id

Easting

Northing

Elevation

EOH

Results Reported

IR 825

514779

6338023

100

70

y

IR 824

515654

6338553

100

70

y

IR 823

519229

6342523

100

65

y

IR 822

518809

6341373

100

41

y

IR 308A

531379

6338943

100

30

y

IR 307

529779

6338173

100

42

y

IR 306

528059

6337923

100

42

y

IR 305

526529

6337023

100

66

y

IR 304

525179

6335723

100

72

y

IR 303

523629

6334153

100

84

y

IR 302

521909

6333223

100

78

y

IR 301

520279

6332473

100

78

y

IR 275

532179

6346223

100

48

Y

IR 276

530430

6346973

100

72

Y

IR 279

526579

6347453

100

36

Y

IR 280

524609

6347553

100

78

Y

IR 281

522929

6346823

100

70

Y

IR 285

519210

6347273

100

54

Y

IR 287

519210

6347223

100

84

Y

IR 297

519210

6345903

100

36

Previous

IR 296

519210

6353123

100

42

Previous

SBU05008

519210

6347243

100

82

Previous

IR 295

519210

6351271

100

42

Previous

IR 294

519210

6349571

100

48

Previous

IR 293

519210

6347751

100

54

Previous

IR 292

519210

6347531

100

54

Previous

IR 291

519210

6347371

100

58

Previous

 

 

 

Appendix 3: Significant intercepts Yaninee Palaeochannel

 

Hole ID

From (m)

To (m)

Int (m)

TREO

Pr6O11

Nd2O3

Tb2O3

Dy2O3

U3O8

ThO2

IR 301

32

36

4

267

16

78

1.38

7.43

7

14

and

70

78

8

193

9

36

0.58

3.33

19

2

IR 302

42

44

2

124

6

23

0.31

1.78

10

4

and

62

74

12

168

7

23

0.39

2.16

19

2

IR303

40

42

2

110

6

27

0.33

1.84

5

2

and

58

74

16

154

5

16

0.28

1.46

13

2

incl.

58

68

10

148

5

13

0.23

1.19

11

1

IR 304

26

28

2

133

7

26

0.35

2.01

3

6

IR 305

24

26

2

121

6

21

0.33

1.89

16

4

IR 305

40

42

2

123

6

24

0.35

2.18

13

4

IR 305

48

66

18

172

6

28

0.4

2.32

45

5

incl.

48

56

8

158

7

32

0.48

2.67

22

7

IR 306

8

24

16

129

6

28

0.46

2.67

16

3

IR 306

26

42

16

197

12

32

0.6

3.16

21

10

incl.

26

36

10

146

7

27

0.5

2.63

10

12

IR 307

10

12

2

132

5

25

0.42

2.52

10

2

and

16

20

4

106

5

31

0.56

3.13

13

1

and

32

42

10

390

18

54

0.91

4.91

36

4

IR 308A

16

30

14

601

31

101

1.74

9.46

40

4

IR 309

0

2

2

132

6

32

0.52

2.87

6

3

and

6

18

12

453

22

51

0.82

4.26

34

4

IR 310

10

24

14

1678

102

207

3.67

18.08

54

4

IR 311

0

2

2

409

24

73

1.18

6.31

14

2

IR 311A

2

4

2

60

3

19

0.28

1.61

4

2

IR 819

36

44

8

209

11

36

0.63

3.35

25

13

and

44

70

26

229

10

29

0.5

2.62

20

4

and

70

76

6

239

10

92

1.18

7.02

23

3

IR 820

34

48

14

154

8

27

0.44

2.41

19

4

and

38

42

4

236

13

41

0.68

3.73

28

5

and

46

60

14

122

5

15

0.24

1.34

11

2

and

64

66

2

239

9

23

0.42

2.18

15

2

and

82

84

2

155

7

57

0.82

4.99

17

1

IR 821

26

28

2

208

10

49

0.87

4.94

5

2

and

34

42

8

237

12

36

0.61

3.34

28

12

and

58

68

10

190

7

22

0.37

1.97

15

2

and

70

80

10

667

19

64

1.32

6.98

17

2

IR 822

4

6

2

111

5

34

0.54

2.93

6

1

and

30

32

2

135

7

28

0.47

2.41

4

1

and

36

40

4

155

7

25

0.41

2.27

21

11

IR 823

58

60

2

181

10

29

0.52

2.81

20

3

IR 823

62

65

3

231

14

36

0.67

3.56

13

2

IR 824

38

40

2

122

5

27

0.4

2.41

11

17

and

42

44

2

368

20

60

1.06

5.85

34

4

and

44

66

22

176

8

31

0.49

2.87

24

5

and

66

70

4

449

36

106

1.78

10.22

16

2

IR 825

32

40

8

243

12

37

0.61

3.39

16

9

and

40

46

6

144

6

26

0.41

2.5

25

3

and

68

70

2

106

2

25

0.26

2.07

25

3

IR 275

40

42

2

243

13

44

0.9

4

47

3

IR 276

44

52

8

961

55

202

3.3

18

22

10

incl.

48

50

2

2329

137

467

8.3

42

21

6

and

50

52

2

399

20

94

1.3

7

22

7

IR 279

20

26

6

364

18

64

1.0

5

27

20

Incl.

22

24

2

454

23

54

0.9

4

37

5

IR 280

28

32

4

287

15

56

0.9

5

30

15

IR 281

34

36

2

287

15

48

0.8

4

32

38

IR 285

30

36

6

243

12

44

0.7

4

26

17

IR 287

36

40

4

243

12

47

0.8

4

27

10

 

 

 

Appendix 4: JORC Code, 2012 Edition - Table 3

 

Criteria

JORC Code explanation

Commentary

Sampling techniques

·    Nature and quality of sampling (eg cut channels, random chips, or specific specialised industry standard measurement tools appropriate to the minerals under investigation, such as down hole gamma sondes, or handheld XRF instruments, etc). These examples should not be taken as limiting the broad meaning of sampling.

·    Include reference to measures taken to ensure sample representivity and the appropriate calibration of any measurement tools or systems used.

·    Aspects of the determination of mineralisation that are Material to the Public Report.

·    In cases where 'industry standard' work has been done this would be relatively simple (eg 'reverse circulation drilling was used to obtain 1 m samples from which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g charge for fire assay'). In other cases more explanation may be required, such as where there is coarse gold that has inherent sampling problems. Unusual commodities or mineralisation types (eg submarine nodules) may warrant disclosure of detailed information.

Pre 2023

·      Historic Rotary Mud drilling targeting palaeochannel hosted uranium occurred from 1980 through to 2014 Residue samples were retained in the Tonsley Core Library, downhole geophysical logging was the primary data collected for these holes.

 

·      Select historic sample residues over Yaninee Palaeochannel and Boland were analysed as reported in RNS 1834M (26 April 2024)

 

·      Further re-analysis results have been reported within this announcement

 

2023

 Aircore

·      A combination of 2m and 3m samples were collected in green bags via a rig mounted cyclone. A PVC spear was used to collect a 2-4kg sub sample from each green bag. Sampling commenced from the collar point with samples submitted for analysis from the top of saprolite.

·      Samples were submitted to Bureau Veritas Laboratories, Adelaide and pulverized to produce a 4-acid digest sample.

 

2024-2025

SONIC

·      Drill results are outlined in RNS 0297I (25 March 2024)

·      Core was scanned by a SciAps X555 pXRF to determine sample intervals. Intervals through mineralized zones were taken at 10cm. Through waste, sample intervals were lengthened to 50cm. Core was halved by knife cutting. XRF scan locations were taken on an inner surface of the core to ensure readings were taken on fresh sample faces.

·      Samples were submitted to Bureau Veritas Laboratories, Adelaide and pulverized to produce a 4 acid digest sample.

 

Aircore

·      1m sample intervals of 2-4 kg were taken via PVC spear from green bags at the rig. Select samples were submitted to the lab for analysis. From 0-6 m in each hole samples were composited to 3m.

·      Samples were submitted to Bureau Veritas Laboratories, Adelaide and pulverized to produce a 4 acid digest sample.

Drilling techniques

·    Drill type (eg core, reverse circulation, open-hole hammer, rotary air blast, auger, Bangka, sonic, etc) and details (eg core diameter, triple or standard tube, depth of diamond tails, face-sampling bit or other type, whether core is oriented and if so, by what method, etc).

Drilling completed by Cobra, but not relevant to the results reported within this announcement include:

 

Pre 2023

·      Drill methods include Rotary Mud and AC

2023

·      Drilling completed by McLeod Drilling Pty Ltd using 75.7mm NQ air core drilling techniques from an ALMET aircore rig mounted on a Toyota Landcruiser 6x6 and a 200psi, 400cfm Sullair compressor.

 

2024-2025

 

·      Sizing analyses completed by the CSIRO and reported within this announcement are from sonic drilling samples.

·      Sonic Core drilling completed Star Drilling using 4" core with a SDR12 drill rig. Holes were reamed to 6" or 8" to enable casing and screens to be installed

 

Historical Drilling, Re-assay Results

 

·      Rotary mud drilling was used by previous explorers to test Palaeochannel sediments for roll-front uranium.

·      Bentonite muds are added to drilling fluids to lift sample from the hole.

·      The methods for Rotary Mud are not well reported, however it is expected that 2m samples would have been recovered from a collar discharge channel via shovel.

·      The primary focus of the drilling would have been to provide hole stability for geophysical probes to be lowered downhole.

 

 

Drill sample recovery

·    Method of recording and assessing core and chip sample recoveries and results assessed.

·    Measures taken to maximise sample recovery and ensure representative nature of the samples.

·    Whether a relationship exists between sample recovery and grade and whether sample bias may have occurred due to preferential loss/gain of fine/coarse material.

·      Samples collected from the Drill Core Reference Library from historic Rotary Mud and Aircore drilling have uncertain sample collection methods. These drill methods can result in a bias towards coarser sediment portions sampled as drilling fluids used lift the sample through the open hole and deposit sample within a discharge channel. Rare earth mineralization is associated with the finer fractions of these sedimentary systems, a large portion of finer (mineralised) material would likely be discharged to the sump. Rotary mud samples are expected to under-report the fine fraction associated rare earth mineralisation and are considered qualitative.

 

·      Aircore Sample recovery is good for the style of drilling. All samples were recorded for sample type, quality and contamination potential and entered within a sample log.

·      In general, sample recoveries range between 5-10kg for each 1 m interval being recovered from AC drilling.

·      Mineralisation occurs within a confined aquifer where ground water does influence sample recovery

·      Mineralisation within the targeted Pidinga Formation is bound to fine, organic rich material, the potential loss of mineralized material from coarser host sands is possible

·      Any grade bias is expected to be grade loss

·      The potential loss of fine material is being evaluated by sizing fraction analysis and follow-up sonic core drilling where aircore holes will be twinned.

 

Sonic Core

·      Sample recovery is considered excellent.

·      Due to the nature of smectite clays, recovered unconsolidated core can expand and "stretch" in length.

·      Any expansion in core length has been reflected in meterage markup by averaging the increase in length per 3m of rod recovery.

·      Little to no expansion is experienced through the mineralised Pidinga Formation.

 

 

Logging

·    Whether core and chip samples have been geologically and geotechnically logged to a level of detail to support appropriate Mineral Resource estimation, mining studies and metallurgical studies.

·    Whether logging is qualitative or quantitative in nature. Core (or costean, channel, etc) photography.

·    The total length and percentage of the relevant intersections logged.

 

·      Historic logging is generally good. Stratigraphy has been reviewed and is generally reflective of Cobra sample re-assessment. Logging is limited to the 2m sample interval in general with historic gamma logging indicative of internal heterogeneity in sediments lost within the 2m interval

·      All drill samples were logged by a qualified geologist at the time of drilling. Lithology, colour, weathering and moisture were documented. All core drilled has been lithologically logged.

·      All Aircore drill metres have been geologically logged on sample intervals (1-3 m).

·      All Sonic Core drill metres have been logged to lithological boundaries.

 

 

Sub-sampling techniques and sample preparation

·    If core, whether cut or sawn and whether quarter, half or all core taken.

·    If non-core, whether riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc and whether sampled wet or dry.

·    For all sample types, the nature, quality and appropriateness of the sample preparation technique.

·    Quality control procedures adopted for all sub-sampling stages to maximise representivity of samples.

·    Measures taken to ensure that the sampling is representative of the in situ material collected, including for instance results for field duplicate/second-half sampling.

·    Whether sample sizes are appropriate to the grain size of the material being sampled.

Pre 2023

·      Historic Residue samples are generally 2m composites and were stored at the South Australian Drill Core Reference Library at Tonsley, a subsample of approximately 20g was removed for lab submission.

·      Sample selection was based on geological observation and selected for lab submission

·      No QAQC samples were included in the submission of these samples. Sample results were intended to indicate mineralisation potential but would not be suitable for resource estimation

 

Post 2023

·      A PVC spear was used to collect 2-4kg of sub-sample from each AC sample length controlled the sample volume submitted to the lab.

·      Additional sub-sampling was performed through the preparation and processing of samples according to the Bureau Veritas internal protocols.

·      Field duplicate AC samples were collected from the green bags using a PVC spear scoop at a 1 in 25 sample frequency.

·      Sample sizes are considered appropriate for the material being sampled.

·      Assessment of duplicate results indicated this sub - sample method provided appropriate repeatability for rare earths.

 

Sonic Drilling

 

·      Field duplicate samples were taken nominally every 1 in 25 samples where the sampled interval was quartered.

·      Blanks and Standards were submitted every 25 samples

·      Half core samples were taken where lab geochemistry sample were taken in 2024.

·      For 2025 drilling, quarter core was submitted to the lab for geochemical testing.

·      In holes where only column leach test samples have been submitted, full core samples have been submitted. In holes where geochemical samples were submitted three quarter core samples were submitted for column leach testing..

 

Quality of assay data and laboratory tests

·    The nature, quality and appropriateness of the assaying and laboratory procedures used and whether the technique is considered partial or total.

·    For geophysical tools, spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc, the parameters used in determining the analysis including instrument make and model, reading times, calibrations factors applied and their derivation, etc.

·    Nature of quality control procedures adopted (eg standards, blanks, duplicates, external laboratory checks) and whether acceptable levels of accuracy (ie lack of bias) and precision have been established.

 

·      Samples were submitted to Bureau Veritas, Adelaide for preparation and analysis. Multi-element geochemistry were digested by four acid ICP-MS/ ICP-OES and analysed for Ag, Ce, Cu, Dy, Er, Eu, Gd, Ho, La, Lu, Mg, Na, Nd, P, Pr, Sc, Sm, Tb, Th, Tm, U, Y and Yb.  

 

·      Field rare earth standards were submitted at a frequency of 1 in 25 samples.

 

·      Field duplicate samples were submitted at a frequency of 1 in 25 samples.

 

·      Reported assays pass the companies implemented QAQC database reports

 

·      Internal lab blanks, standards and repeats for rare earths indicated acceptable assay accuracy.

 

Sample Characterisation Test Work performed by the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO)

 

·      Full core samples were submitted to  Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Sydney for preparation and analysis. The core was split in half along the vertical axis, and one half further split into 10 even fractions along the length of the half-core. Additional sub-sampling, homogenisation and drying steps were performed to generate ~260 g (dry equivalent) samples for head assay according to the laboratory internal protocols.

·      Multi element geochemistry of solid samples were analysed at ANSTO (Sydney) by XRF for the major gangue elements Al, Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, P, Si, S, and Zn.

·      Multi element geochemistry of solid samples were additionally analysed at ALS Geochemistry Laboratory (Brisbane) on behalf of ANSTO by lithium tetraborate digest  ICP-MS and analysed for Ce, Dy, Er, Eu, Gd, Ho, La, Lu, Nd, Pr,  Sm, Tb, Th, Tm, U, Y and Yb.

·      Reported assays are to acceptable levels of accuracy and precision.

·      Internal laboratory blanks, standards and repeats for rare earths indicated acceptable assay accuracy.

·      Samples retained for metallurgical analysis were immediately vacuum packed, nitrogen purged and refrigerated.

·      These samples were refrigerated throughout transport.

 

Metallurgical Leach Test Work performed by the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO)

 

 

·    ANSTO laboratories prepared ~80g samples for diagnostic leaches, a 443g sample for a slurry leach and a 660g sample for a column leach. Sub-samples were prepared from full cores according to the laboratory internal protocols. Diagnostic and slurry leaching were carried out in baffled leach vessels equipped with an overhead stirrer and applying a 0.5 M (NH4)2SO4 lixiviant solution, adjusted to the select pH using H2SO4.

·    0.5 M H2SO4 was utilised to maintain the test pH for the duration of the test, if necessary. The acid addition was measured.

·    Thief liquor samples were taken periodically.

·    At the completion of each test, the final pH was measured, the slurry was vacuum filtered to separate the primary filtrate.

·    The thief samples and primary filtrate were analysed as follows:

ICP-MS for Ce, Dy, Er, Eu, Gd, Ho, La, Lu, Mn, Nd, Pb, Pr, Sc, Sm, Tb, Th, Tm, U, Y, Yb.

ICP-OES for Al, Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Si.

·    The water wash was stored but not analysed.

·    Column leaching was carried out in horizontal leaching column. The column was pressurised with nitrogen to 6 bar and submerged in a temperature controlled bath.

·    A 0.5 M (NH4)2SO4 lixiviant solution, adjusted to the select pH using H2SO4 was fed to the column at a controlled flowrate.

·    PLS collected from the end of the column was weighed, the SH and pH measured and the free acid concentration determined by titration. Liquor samples were taken from the collected PLS and analysed as follows:

ICP-MS for Ce, Dy, Er, Eu, Gd, Ho, La, Lu, Mn, Nd, Pb, Pr, Sc, Sm, Tb, Th, Tm, U, Y, Yb.

ICP-OES for Al, Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Si.

·    The column leach test has been completed. Assays of the column have adjusted head grades of the initial bench scale study. Recoveries have been adjusted accordingly.

 

Verification of sampling and assaying

·    The verification of significant intersections by either independent or alternative company personnel.

·    The use of twinned holes.

·    Documentation of primary data, data entry procedures, data verification, data storage (physical and electronic) protocols.

·    Discuss any adjustment to assay data.

·      Historic samples were checked against the "SARIG" drillhole database to confirm drillhole depths. Each sample was weighed and photographed with the core library sample container, the lab submitted sample container and the sample placed in the lab sample container to check for manual errors. Samples and drillhole photographs were entered into Cobra's MX Deposit database during sample collection and a record was submitted to the core library for their records.

·      Sampling data was recorded in field books, checked upon digitising and transferred to database.

·      Geological logging was undertaken digitally via the MX Deposit logging interface and synchronised to the database at least daily during the drill programme.

·      Compositing of assays was undertaken and reviewed by Cobra Resources staff.

·      Original copies of laboratory assay data are retained digitally on the Cobra Resources server for future reference.

·      Samples have been spatially verified through the use of Datamine and Leapfrog geological software for pre 2021 and post 2021 samples and assays.

·      Twinned drillholes from pre 2021 and post 2021 drill programs showed acceptable spatial and grade repeatability.

·      Physical copies of field sampling books are retained by Cobra Resources for future reference.

·      Significant intersections have been prepared by Mr Robert Blythman and reviewed by Mr Rupert Verco

Location of data points

·    Accuracy and quality of surveys used to locate drill holes (collar and down-hole surveys), trenches, mine workings and other locations used in Mineral Resource estimation.

·    Specification of the grid system used.

·    Quality and adequacy of topographic control.

 

Pre-2021

·      Historic re-analysis holes are considered indicative with reported accuracy greater than 50m. elevation for these holes has not been acquired.

2021-2023

·      Collar locations were initially surveyed using a mobile phone utilising the Avenza Map app. Collar points recorded with a GPS horizontal accuracy within 5 m.

·      RC Collar locations were picked up using a Leica CS20 base and Rover with an instrument precision of 0.05 cm accuracy.

·      Locations are recorded in geodetic datum GDA 94 zone 53.

·      No downhole surveying was undertaken on AC holes. All holes were set up vertically and are assumed vertical.

·      RC holes have been down hole surveyed using a Reflex TN-14 true north seeking downhole survey tool or Reflex multishot

·      Downhole surveys were assessed for quality prior to export of data. Poor quality surveys were downgraded in the database to be excluded from export.

·      All surveys are corrected to MGA 94 Zone 53 within the MX Deposit database.

·      Cased collars of sonic drilling shall be surveyed before a mineral resource estimate

2024 Aircore

 

·      Collar locations were initially surveyed using A mobile phone GPS utilising the Avenza Map app. Collar points recorded with a horizontal accuracy within 5m.

·      Locations are recorded in geodetic datum GDA 94 zone 53.

·      No downhole surveying was undertaken on AC or Sonic  holes. All holes were set up vertically and are assumed vertical.

·      Higher accuracy GPS will be undertaken on sonic core drilling to support future resource estimates

Data spacing and distribution

·    Data spacing for reporting of Exploration Results.

·    Whether the data spacing and distribution is sufficient to establish the degree of geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimation procedure(s) and classifications applied.

·    Whether sample compositing has been applied.

·     Historic samples are variably distributed and were located opportunistically in areas of easy access with spacing typically at least hundreds of metres apart on section and kilometres apart in between transects.

·    

·     Drillhole spacing was designed on transects 200 to 500m apart.

 

·     Additional scouting holes were drilled opportunistically on existing tracks at spacings 25-150 m from previous drillholes.

 

·     Sonic core holes were drilled at ~20m spacings in a wellfield configuration based on assumed permeability potential of the intersected geology

 

·     Drillhole spacing is not expected to introduce any sample bias.

 

·     Assessment of the drillhole spacing for resource estimation will be made once a sufficient data set can provide statistical analysis

·     .

Orientation of data in relation to geological structure

·    Whether the orientation of sampling achieves unbiased sampling of possible structures and the extent to which this is known, considering the deposit type.

·    If the relationship between the drilling orientation and the orientation of key mineralised structures is considered to have introduced a sampling bias, this should be assessed and reported if material.

·     Historic holes are reported as vertical.

·     Aircore and Sonic drill holes are vertical.

Sample security

·    The measures taken to ensure sample security.

·    Historic samples were collected at the drill core reference library and submitted by Cobra staff to the lab directly. Samples held prior to submission were held within a locked storage facility.

·    Transport of samples to Adelaide was undertaken by a competent independent contractor. Samples were packaged in zip tied polyweave bags in bundles of 5 samples at the drill rig and transported in larger bulka bags by batch while being transported.

·    Refrigerated transport of samples to Sydney was undertaken by a competent independent contractor. Samples were double bagged, vacuum sealed, nitrogen purged and placed within PVC piping.

·    There is no suspicion of tampering of samples.

Audits or reviews

·    The results of any audits or reviews of sampling techniques and data.

·    No laboratory audit or review has been undertaken.

·    Genalysis Intertek and BV Laboratories Adelaide are NATA (National Association of Testing Authorities) accredited laboratory, recognition of their analytical competence.

 

Appendix 5 : Section 2 reporting of exploration results

 

Criteria

JORC Code explanation

Commentary

Mineral tenement and land tenure status

·      Type, reference name/number, location and ownership including agreements or material issues with third parties such as joint ventures, partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests, historical sites, wilderness or national park and environmental settings.

·      The security of the tenure held at the time of reporting along with any known impediments to obtaining a licence to operate in the area.

·      In May 2025 Cobra Announsed the rights to acquire a 100% interest in EL 6742, EL 6774 and EL 6780 from the Tri-Star Group.

·      These tenements are subjects to milestone payments relating to the delivery of a JORC compliant resource and the retention of the Els for greater than fiver years.

·      A net smelter royalty of 1.5%, capped at A$5.0 million as outlined in RNS number 2038K

·      Boland is located on EL5953, currently owned 100% by Peninsula Resources limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Andromeda Metals Limited.

 

·      In 2024, Cobra through its subsidiary Lady Alice Mines purchased the remaining ownership of the Wudinna Project tenements.

 

·      An application through partial surrender is currently with the South Australian Government which will see LAM as the 100% owner of areas of the Wudinna Project.

 

·      Alcrest Royalties Australia Pty Ltd retains a 1.5% NSR royalty over future mineral production from licenses EL6001, EL5953, EL6131, EL6317 and EL6489.

 

·      A Native Title Agreement is in place with the Barngarla people.

 

·      Aboriginal heritage surveys have been completed over EL5953, with no sites located in the immediate vicinity of aircore drilling

Exploration done by other parties

·      Acknowledgment and appraisal of exploration by other parties.

·      On-ground exploration completed prior to Andromeda Metals' work was limited to 400 m spaced soil geochemistry completed by Newcrest Mining Limited over the Barns prospect.

 

·      Other than the flying of regional airborne geophysics and coarse spaced ground gravity, there has been no recorded exploration in the vicinity of the Baggy Green deposit prior to Andromeda Metals' work.

 

·      Palaeochannel uranium exploration was undertaken by various parties in the 1980s and the 2010s around the Boland Prospect. Drilling was primarily rotary mud with downhole geophysical logging the primary interpretation method.

Geology

·      Deposit type, geological setting and style of mineralisation.

·      Target mineralisation is ionic rare earth mineralisation that occurs primarily within the Pidinga Formation within the Narlaby Palaeochannel, immediately above REE enriched Hiltaba Suite Granites

 

·      Ionic REE mineralisation also occurs in and adjacent to the Garford formation clays and silty sands.

 

·      Significant chemical (pH & eH) differences exist between underlying saprolite and overlying Palaeochannel sediments. REEs are absorbed to reduced organics found within the Pidinga Formation

 

·      Benchtop metallurgy studies indicate ISR amenability of rare earths within the Pidinga Formation basal sands summarized in RNS 1285Q (16 December 2024)

 

·      Ionic REE mineralisation is confirmed through metallurgical desorption testing where high recoveries are achieved at benign acidities (pH4-3) at ambient temperature.

 

·      QEMSCAN and petrology analysis support REE ionic mineralisation, with little to no secondary phases identified.

 

·      Ionic REE mineralisation occurs in reduced clay intervals that contact both saprolite and permeable sand units. Mineralisation contains variable sand quantities that yield permeability and promote in-situ recovery potential

 

·      Mineralisation is located within a confined aquifer

Drillhole Information

·      A summary of all information material to the understanding of the exploration results including a tabulation of the following information for all Material drill holes:

easting and northing of the drill hole collar

elevation or RL (Reduced Level - elevation above sea level in metres) of the drill hole collar

dip and azimuth of the hole

down hole length and interception depth

hole length.

·      If the exclusion of this information is justified on the basis that the information is not Material and this exclusion does not detract from the understanding of the report, the Competent Person should clearly explain why this is the case.

·      Exploration results being reported represent historical drilling performed by previous companies. Reported hole locations are based upon SARIG database locations. Where possible, coordinates have been validated against source envelopes.

Data aggregation methods

·      In reporting Exploration Results, weighting averaging techniques, maximum and/or minimum grade truncations (eg cutting of high grades) and cut-off grades are usually Material and should be stated.

·      Where aggregate intercepts incorporate short lengths of high grade results and longer lengths of low grade results, the procedure used for such aggregation should be stated and some typical examples of such aggregations should be shown in detail.

·      The assumptions used for any reporting of metal equivalent values should be clearly stated.

·      Reported summary intercepts are weighted averages based on length.

·      No maximum/ minimum grade cuts have been applied.

·      No metal equivalent values have been calculated.

·      Rare earth element analyses were originally reported in elemental form and have been converted to relevant oxide concentrations in line with industry standards. Conversion factors tabulated below:

 

Element

Oxide

Factor

Cerium

CeO2

1.2284

Dysprosium

Dy2O3

1.1477

Erbium

Er2O3

1.1435

Europium

Eu2O3

1.1579

Gadolinium

Gd2O3

1.1526

Holmium

Ho2O3

1.1455

Lanthanum

La2O3

1.1728

Lutetium

Lu2O3

1.1371

Neodymium

Nd2O3

1.1664

Praseodymium

Pr6O11

1.2082

Scandium

Sc2O3

1.5338

Samarium

Sm2O3

1.1596

Terbium

Tb4O7

1.1762

Thulium

Tm2O3

1.1421

Yttrium

Y2O3

1.2699

Ytterbium

Yb2O3

1.1387

·      The reporting of REE oxides is done so in accordance with industry standards with the following calculations applied:

·      TREO = La2O3 + CeO2 + Pr6O11 + Nd2O3 + Sm2O3 + Eu2O3 + Gd2O3 + Tb4O7 + Dy2O3 + Ho2O3 + Er2O3 + Tm2O3 + Yb2O3 + Lu2O3 + Y2O3

·      CREO = Nd2O3 + Eu2O3 + Tb4O7 + Dy2O3 + Y2O3

·      LREO = La2O3 + CeO2 + Pr6O11 + Nd2O3

·      HREO = Sm2O3 + Eu2O3 + Gd2O3 + Tb4O7 + Dy2O3 + Ho2O3 + Er2O3 + Tm2O3 + Yb2O3 + Lu2O3 + Y2O3

·      MREO = Nd2O3 + Pr6O11 + Tb4O7 + Dy2O3

·      NdPr = Nd2O3 + Pr6O11

·      TREO-Ce = TREO - CeO2

·      % Nd = Nd2O3/ TREO

·      % Pr = Pr6O11/TREO

·      % Dy = Dy2O3/TREO

·      % HREO = HREO/TREO

·      % LREO = LREO/TREO

 

·      XRF results are used as an indication of potential grade only. Due to detection limits only a combined content of Ce, La, Nd, Pr & Y has been used. XRF grades have not been converted to oxide.

Relationship between mineralisation widths and intercept lengths

·      These relationships are particularly important in the reporting of Exploration Results.

·      If the geometry of the mineralisation with respect to the drill hole angle is known, its nature should be reported.

·      If it is not known and only the down hole lengths are reported, there should be a clear statement to this effect (eg 'down hole length, true width not known').

·      Preliminary results support unbiased testing of the mineralised system.

·      Most intercepts are vertical and reflect true width intercepts.

·      Follow-up sonic drilling is planned to delineate portions of the reported intersections that are recoverable and unrecoverable via ISR

Diagrams

·      Appropriate maps and sections (with scales) and tabulations of intercepts should be included for any significant discovery being reported These should include, but not be limited to a plan view of drill hole collar locations and appropriate sectional views.

·      Relevant diagrams have been included in the announcement.

·      Exploration results are not being reported for existing mineral resources.

·      Drilling is aimed at defining new exploration targets

Balanced reporting

·      Where comprehensive reporting of all Exploration Results is not practicable, representative reporting of both low and high grades and/or widths should be practiced to avoid misleading reporting of Exploration Results.

·      REE mineralization occurs in several phases, ionic mineralisation occurs within the Pidinga Formation and the Garford Formation where ISR recovery is possible. REO values within all formations have been reported. Mineralisation occurring within the saprolite is considered secondary phase and colloidal mineralization but is indicative of a rare earth enriched system

Other substantive exploration data

·      Other exploration data, if meaningful and material, should be reported including (but not limited to): geological observations; geophysical survey results; geochemical survey results; bulk samples - size and method of treatment; metallurgical test results; bulk density, groundwater, geotechnical and rock characteristics; potential deleterious or contaminating substances.

·      Refer to previous announcements listed in RNS for reporting of REE results and metallurgical testing

Further work

·      The nature and scale of planned further work (eg tests for lateral extensions or depth extensions or large-scale step-out drilling).

·      Diagrams clearly highlighting the areas of possible extensions, including the main geological interpretations and future drilling areas, provided this information is not commercially sensitive.

·      Further drill core reference library results are pending

·      Drill planning, including the requisite approvals are anticipated to follow the return of the upcoming assay results

·      ISR study 1 was performed to achieve a pH 3 whilst ISR study 2 was performed at a pH of 3.

·      Future metallurgical testing will focus on optimizing a current flow-sheet, investigating Light REE removal through pre-condition leaching and oxidation. Further studies are planned for impurity precipitation and

·      Hydrology, permeability and mineralogy studies are being performed on core samples.

·      Installed wells are being used to capture hydrology base line data to support a future infield pilot study.

·      Trace line tests shall be performed to emulate bench scale pore volumes.

 

 

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