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Exploration drilling is the first step in unlocking the potential of any mineral deposit.

At J&S Drilling, we combine well-maintained equipment with over 40 years of industry expertise to deliver efficient and reliable drilling results. Our proven track record has earned the trust of publicly listed mining companies across Australia.

Australia’s Leading Exploration Drilling Specialists

Why choose J&S?

Proven track record in mining

Our team has provided drilling services for major discoveries since 1982. From the Pilbara and Goldfields in WA to the Coal Fields in Queensland, we’ve drilled for the most high-performing mines in Australia.

Project efficiency

Modern equipment and operational technologies maximise drilling efficiency and minimise site disturbance. We deliver quality samples.

Meticulous management

Effective communication and project management workflows that integrate seamlessly with consulting partners and project schedules.

Technical reporting support

Detailed drilling logs, documentation and exploration data that directly support mining analysis and regulatory submissions.

J&S is ready when you are. Get your detailed project quote today!

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Exploration Drilling 

Our drilling methods

Rotary air drilling

Minimises sample contamination with fast penetration rates and precise rotary air control for deep exploration targets, preliminary resource assessment, and geology characterisation programs.

Aircore / RC (reverse circulation)

Delivers accurate samples from the bit face to minimise cross-contamination. Provides preliminary exploration programs, target generation and mineral resource assessment.

Diamond core drilling

Drives resource evaluation with diamond drilling at diameter capabilities (NQ, HQ, PQ) for core volumes with high recovery rates. Conventional coring (4C, 6C, 8C) is available.

Sonic drilling

Unearth quality core samples with minimal disturbance. Our high-frequency sonic technology enables continuous sampling across diverse geological formations in challenging exploration projects.

Overburden systems

Penetrate unconsolidated materials with specialised overburden drilling systems designed for shallow exploration targets, preliminary assessments, and geology characterisation intersections beneath.

Direct push

Advance exploration sampling tools through soft formations. Ideal for reconnaissance exploration and shallow target assessment programs.

Auger hollow & solid flight

Conduct shallow exploration investigations and reconnaissance programs. Hollow & solid flight stem augers enable simultaneous drilling and sampling through suitable exploration targets.

Exploration Drilling Testing & Samples

Critical data collection

Determine in-situ soil and rock properties with precision and reliability. Exploration partners trust us to deliver high-quality mineral samples

  • Diamond Core: High-quality core samples in NQ, HQ and PQ sizes
  • Conventional Coring: High-quality core sample in 4C, 6C, 8C
  • Down-hole surveys: Accurate borehole positioning and deviation control
  • Core orientation: Precise structural geology analysis and discontinuity mapping
  • Sonic sampling – single / dual wall: Superior sample recovery with minimal disturbance.
  • Chip samples through RC/AC
  • Pre-collaring for insertion of inner casing for down-hole survey tools

Latest Projects

Drilling just delivered

drilling contractor, conducting mineral exploration
West Queensland

Exploration Drilling Programs
J&S Drilling rig on site during a hydrogen exploration drilling program 2
Central QLD

Multi-scope Hydrogen Drilling Program
Fraste multipurpose exploration drilling rig
Northern QLD

Vanadium Exploration – 4C & 8C Coring

All projects

client reviews

Heard on site

“On behalf of KNPL, your team has done a incredible job. The level of professionalism, pride and care factor the team has shown in their work has been outstanding. It’s been a pleasure to see how consistently high standards are maintained, both in quality of work delivered and in the way the team carry themselves each day. The commitment to safety and the strong team culture you have at J&S is equally as commendable. Thank you for creating a safe and supportive work environment and delivering us a safe and successful drill program. Much appreciated.”
“I would like to take the time to thank you for the work that was completed at our home. The crew that completed the drilling were exceptional, they explained the complete process and did it without fuss. I think I’ve learnt a little about drilling myself or at least more than you thought I did. Once again thank you I will certainly be very happy to recommend you to anyone.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to your exploration drilling questions

We provide diamond core drilling at NQ, HQ, and PQ diameters with consistently high recovery rates. Conventional coring (4C, 6C, 8C) is available for systematic geological assay programs. Our rigs are equipped to handle diameter changes within the same hole for optimised resource definition.

Our sonic drilling technology delivers continuous sampling with minimal disturbance across varied lithologies. We use specialised overburden casing systems and pre-collaring techniques for more challenging formations. RC/AC methods include cyclone optimisation and sample splitting protocols to minimise cross-contamination.

We follow industry-standard QA/QC protocols, including field duplicates, blanks, and standards insertion. Sample handling procedures maintain a chain of custody from collection through dispatch. Our sampling equipment is regularly maintained to ensure consistent sample weights and splits.

We maintain multiple rig configurations to support concurrent drilling campaigns across different geological settings. Our logistics network supports regional programs with equipment mobilisation, crew rotation, and supply chain management tailored to remote exploration projects.

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J&S is ready when you are.
Get your detailed project quote today!

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