Aeris' executive chairman, Andrew Labuschagne, said: "Preparations are underway and we will shortly be awarding contracts for drilling, infrastructure construction and logistics with the aim to commence drilling before the end of the calendar year. The Stage 1 drilling programme will consist of 8-10 drill holes focusing on the highest priority drill targets.

"Drill holes are likely to be between 700m and 1,500m. The joint venture has been undertaking extensive analysis of the available geological information, including results of the aerial survey undertaken earlier this year, to identify the highest priority drill targets."