"My question has to do with the phosphate part of the ore body. Is it likely that once they have found the edge of the REE mineralisation, that the phosphate occurrence would continue to any significant extent? "
My understanding is that the answer to this question is 'no'. Both the phosphate content and REE content of the ore are primarily associated with fluorapatite dykes (although higher grade intersections of REE in cheralite bearing ore do exist) and stockwork vein systems. These dykes form the basis of the orebody and where you get phosphate, you tend to get REE too.
Having been a Geo in a former life and having also been lucky enough to visit Nolans, that is my take. I am no expert on REO deposits though and am willing to stand corrected - I would be suprised to find zones of phosphate rich ore extending beyond areas of REE mineralization. Would not complain if they did exist though!
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