Axiom Mining is accelerating exploration at the Isabel Nickel Project with six drill rigs to arrive in the Solomon Islands this month to commence a resource drilling program. This program will determine an initial measured and indicated resource that can support the first three to four years of a direct shipping ore (DSO) operation.

Axiom has contracted a nickel laterite specialist to deliver this stage of exploration.

The program is due to commence in late June and will involve two phases. Phase 1 will include 5000 metres at 50x50 metre and 50x25 metre hole spacings. Phase two also involves 5000 metres at 100x100 metre and 50 x 50 metre hole spacings.

Other development activities are progressing at an accelerated pace, including camp refurbishment, recruiting and training of a local workforce, and preparations to commence initial exploration on the San Jorge tenement.

Axiom’s CEO Ryan Mount says, “Our current orientation drilling program has achieved a total of 129 holes with an aggregate of 2236 metres using one drill rig and has consistently intersected high grade nickel mineralization at the prospect areas of Havihua and Kolosori ridges.

“The Court of Appeal hearing has ended with judgement pending which means a dramatic reduction in our legal expenses. We can now full channel our resources to developing the world-class Isabel nickel deposit, ensuring we meet our target of being in production by the end of this year.”

The Isabel Nickel Project is considered to be one of the largest nickel laterite deposits in the Pacific. The project has been extensively explored by mining and engineering industry leaders, International Nickel Company Ltd (INCO) and Kaiser Engineers International.

Axiom holds a 50-year registered lease and prospecting licence over the Kolosori tenement, and a prospecting licence for the San Jorge tenement.