A new interpretation of Cambrian basement geology increases the prospectivity for Cu porphyries in western Victoria

Abstract

Recent Geological Survey of Victoria work has confirmed the presence of the Miga Arc, a buried Andean-type Cambrian arc system in western Victoria. Geophysical data sets, particularly magnetics and gravity, were interpreted to characterise the regional tectonic setting, and to gain a deeper understanding of poorly exposed bedrock of the southern Miga Arc, within the Geological Survey of Victoria’s Willaura Cu Porphyry project area. Geophysical interpretation and modelling, and field mapping of Cambrian bedrock has identified new regional Late Silurian dextral faults which are important in understanding the distribution of Miga Arc rocks in western Victoria. The updated bedrock interpretation together with new geochemical results has significantly expanded the potential exploration fairway for Cu porphyries in rocks associated with the buried Miga Arc.