New name for old rocks in western Victorian mineral body

The contribution of Geological Survey of Victoria (GSV) senior geologist Ross Cayley and the team’s geological research across western Victoria, including the evolution of eastern Australia, was recognised during a recent geology conference.

Geological data continues to boost knowledge and understanding of what lays beneath the ground across western Victoria, contributing to regional investment, development and jobs.

The GSV, in partnership with Geoscience Australia (GA), has generated new information about the geology of western Victoria revealing the copper potential concealed beneath the ground.

The work of the partnership has ignited the interest of minerals explorers, providing them with the confidence to invest in western Victoria.

At the recent RIU Explorers Conference in Fremantle, Stavely Minerals announced it had renamed its mineral discovery at Thursday’s Gossan in western Victoria the ‘Cayley Lode’.

Stavely Minerals Executive Officer Chris Cairns described the GSV-GA research as “ground-breaking”.

Mr Cairns made the announcement while accepting an award recognising his company’s progress in minerals development. He said the interpretation provided by the partnership gave his company the technical confidence to further explore the copper potential of western Victoria’s Stavely Arc.

To date Stavely Minerals has invested over $20m in the region, with the bulk of that investment going to Victorian businesses, contractors and employees.

Geological discoveries are occasionally named after geologists who made a significant contribution to the initial detection. Mr Cayley’s work was supported by colleagues at GSV and GA.

If developed, the copper discovered at the Cayley Lode may contribute to the emerging renewable sector by manufacturing components for wind farms and electric vehicles.

A film recording the research of GSV and GA, The Stavely Arc – uncovering the geological evolution of western Victoria, can be viewed through earthresources.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributed to Director Geological Survey of Victoria Paul McDonald

“Congratulations Ross! Ross’ work was supported by the GSV and GA partnership and the previous work of other geologists over many years. It’s great to see our work recognised in this way. We continue to generate wealth for all Victorians”

“The quality of the GSV-GA applied geoscience research has given explorers like Stavely Minerals the confidence to invest in western Victoria, potentially resulting in more investment and jobs.”

Quotes attributed to Senior Geologist Geological Survey of Victoria Ross Cayley

“I grew up in the area and I’ve spent a lot of time both personally and professionally understanding the rocks and landscape of the region.”

“This is an honour for the GSV and GA Stavely team. We are proud that we’re assisting explorers to locate minerals deposits and that one of them has decided to name their discovery after the team. It doesn’t get much better than that.”

/Public Release. View in full here.