Better results from composite sampling of a discovery east of Vanguard North included 4 metres grading 13.2 grams per tonne from 28m and 4m at 12.1gpt from 72m, while at the Indomitable prospect Alto intersected “a number” of 1m and 4m composites greater than 2gpt over a 300m strike.

The aircore results are now being followed up by RC drilling, with testing underway at Indomitable and Vanguard North next in line.

Sandstone said it is targeting relatively shallow gold deposits at Vanguard and Indomitable and elsewhere on its ground that could be developed as small mining operations using third party mills, as well as larger deposits that would entail development of a dedicated processing facility – yielding at least 100,000oz per annum for 7-10 years.

Last month the company outlined a maiden resource of 69,000 ounces at the previously mined Lord Henry deposit.

Alto started the quarter with about A$2.4 million in cash and investments.

Shares in Alto were up 4.5% to 7.1c in morning trade, capitalising the company at $11 million.