Petrogenesis and metallogenic significance of the Speewah V-Ti Deposit

The Challenge

The Speewah V-Ti Deposit is a rare occurrence of large-scale orthomagmatic V-Ti mineralisation not associated with a layered intrusion. Consequently, Speewah represents a unique opportunity to gather new insights into magmatic Fe–Ti and PGE+Au ore systems. Speewah is also the first major deposit to be identified in the Hart-Carson Large Igneous Province. Regional studies have identified other occurrences of V-Ti anomalism elsewhere in the Hart-Carson Large Igneous Province, suggesting that Speewah-style mineralisation could be widespread across the Kimberleys and more research may lead to the discovery of other world-class critical minerals deposits.

Proposed Solution

The aims of the project are;

1. Identify the key magmatic events and processes responsible for V-Ti and PGE+Au mineralisation contained within the Speewah V-Ti Deposit,
2. Characterise the the magma sources for the multi-stage gabbroic sill hosting the Speewah V-Ti Deposit by determining whether they are from an aesthenospheric plume or partial melting of the subcontinental lithospheric mantle,
3. Update the tectono-stratigraphic history for the Hart-Carson Large Igneous Province, in the context of the Palaeoproterozoic evolution of the North Australian Craton, and
4. Compare the geology and geodynamic setting of the Speewah V-Ti Deposit with other examples of orthomagmatic mineralisation to determine if Speewah has unique characteristics that can be used for exploration targeting elsewhere.

Proposed Benefits to WA

The Kimberley region is remote, characterised by rugged topography and has limited road access – it is a very under-explored part of Western Australia. New research aimed at developing a better understanding of the prospectivity for the region may result in the discovery and development of more world-class mineral deposits. This would have the flow-on effect of delivering major economic development, long-term employment and royalty payments for Kimberley communities, replacing what was until recently provided by the now-closed Argyle Diamond Mine.

Supervisors

Professor Marco Fiorentini, Professor Tony Kemp