PNG Mining Dec/Jan 2026

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SURFACE LEVEL Exploring PNG’s major open-pit mines INDUSTRY EVENTS PNG Expo expands in 2026 MINE SPOTLIGHT Momentum builds for Woodlark

VOLUME 2 NO. 6 | DECEMBER 2025–JANUARY 2026 2025/26 | DEC-NOV | ISSUE 6

A stronger MINING NATION Kumul Mineral Holdings is championing consolidation, collaboration and community co-development in PNG

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Progress at t ur a and below CEO Christine Clancy GROUP MANAGING EDITOR Paul Hayes T: +61 3 9690 8766 E: paul.hayes@primecreative.com.a EDITOR Paul Howell T: +61 3 9690 8766 E: paul.howell@primecreative.com.au CLIENT SUCCESS MANAGER Janine Clements T: +61 2 9439 7227 E: janine.clements@primecreative.com.au RESOURCES GROUP LEAD Jonathan Duckett M: +61 498 091 027 E: jonathan.duckett@primecreative.com.au BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Ezra Wolde M: +61 411 188 322 E: ezra.wolde@primecreative.com.au ART DIRECTOR Michelle Weston COVER IMAGE Kumul Minerals Holdings SUBSCRIPTION RATES Australia (surface mail) $140.00 (incl GST) New Zealand A$148.00 Overseas A$156.00 For subscriptions enquiries please call +61 3 9690 8766

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Tracking Papua New Guinea’s mining industry, two stories stand out this issue: a national operator charting a bold new direction, and a mining method that continues to underpin the country’s biggest projects.

PAPUA NEW Guinea’s (PNG) mining sector has always moved between two horizons – the long-term strategic view that shapes national development, and the day-to-day operational realities that keep the country’s largest projects running.

In this edition of PNG Mining, both perspectives come sharply into focus.

Our cover story looks at Kumul Mineral Holdings and its managing director, Sarima Kanu, who is championing a transformative vision for the national mining industry.

While PNG’s mega-projects at Ok Tedi and Porgera continue to generate outstanding results, Kanu is turning the spotlight to a different opportunity: the wealth of smaller, stranded prospects scattered across the country. His consolidation strategy – bringing these deposits together around shared processing hubs – has the potential to unlock resources that would never be developed on their own.

It’s a model inspired by the world’s most successful mining jurisdictions and one that could create a more resilient, diversified industry for .

Just as strategic thinking is reshaping the future of mining, the fundamentals of how miners operate today remain a major driver of the PNG’s economic success.

Also in this issue, we examine the surface mining operations that remain the backbone of PNG’s minerals sector.

From Ok Tedi’s high-altitude open pit to the geothermal conditions at Lihir and the twin pits of Hidden Valley, surface mining is central to national production and regional development. These operations not only generate export revenue but also anchor supply chains, create local employment and support training programs that build long-term capability across the workforce.

Taken together, these two stories highlight an industry evolving on multiple fronts. Strategic consolidation promises to broaden PNG’s mining base, while worldclass surface mines continue to deliver the outputs that sustain communities and the national economy.

As PNG charts its next chapter, the challenge – and opportunity – lies in balancing visionary planning with operational excellence.

If the sector can advance on both fronts, the rewards will be felt far beyond the pit, the plant, or the provinces where mining takes place.

Paul Howell Editor pngmining.com PNG Mining

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Contents

14 Surface mining Surface-level success PNG’s surface mining sector continues to unlock resources, driving regional development and workforce growth.

22 Cover story Beyond the megaproject: Kumul's on o i tion i ion Kumul Mineral Holdings managing director Sarima Kanu is championing regional consolidation to build a resilient sector.

32 Finance et n n e made for PNG RIFL’s tailored approach to asset finance is helping mining operators access the capital they need to grow.

34 Project infrastructure Tackling the rainfall challenge underground Ok Tedi’s new underground pump station is helping it to cope with extremely high rainfalls.

26 Education and training Global expertise for local development DEKA Dynamics brings global mining expertise to Papua New Guinea to help build the next generation of local professionals.

36 Industry insight Mining boom rewrites PNG outlook With the mining sector exceeding all expectations in 2025, economists have upgraded growth forecasts for the Papua New Guinea economy and the surrounding region.

40 Transport and logistics PNG’s transport inno tion t or Rather than deterring investment, PNG’s geography has driven innovation in mining logistics, creating operators with unmatched expertise.

52 Energy Papua LNG back on track After negotiations brought capital expenditure down 22 per cent, the Papua LNG project is positioned for a final investment decision in 2026.

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PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

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Project updates

Frieda River steps up community health support Frieda River has joined forces with the Ambunti District Hospitality to deliver a joint integrated health program for landowning and neighbouring communities in the Frieda River area.

The company, which is advancing a large-scale gold and copper project on the border of Sandaun and East Sepik provinces, is also working to establish critical public infrastructure in the region. Its operations cover the villages from the Miyan and Telefol language groups, while people in a village from the Payamo language group are the landowners for the proposed site of the Frieda River hydro-electric project.

The health program involves maternal and child health clinics that have delivered services to 342 women and children. Services included vaccinations, antenatal consultations, and family planning services.

A total of 1238 patients have been treated for common ailments.

The program also included a targeted tuberculosis screening initiative to detect the disease

and formulate treatment plans.

The screening service was led by Frieda River health extension officer Magdeline Nenikuro.

“Tuberculosis is a prevalent health issue in Papua New Guinea [PNG] and can cause serious complications and even death,” Nenikuro said. “By visiting remote communities, we can reach many people who don’t have regular or easy access to testing, diagnosis and treatment.”

Frieda River PNG country manager Joel Hamago said the healthcare intervention is part of the company’s social investment in local communities.

“Since 2014, we have been investing in primary healthcare for our communities with health with programs, community infrastructure and even supporting complex and specialised surgeries, in the wider Sepik region” he said.

“Frieda River continues to support the five aid post facilities in the Frieda River catchment, by procuring basic medical drugs and supplies.” PNG

Frieda River’s remote health campaign includes screening for tuberculosis.

Ok Tedi turns to LNG in new supply deal Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) has taken a major step in its energy transition strategy, signing a new gas supply deal with ArranEnergy.

It will purchase liquified natural gas (LNG) from the subsidiary of Trans Wonderland, which operates the Stanley gas fields in Western Province.

OTML manager for energy transition Anton Safronov said the deal is the first major step in the company’s energy transition strategy but also contributed to local content ambitions. “[It is] the first of many steps to be taken as we work towards decarbonising 6

our operations, per our Growth 2050 strategy,” he said.

“This event signifies more than just our decarbonisation targets; we also use local products and provision of more employment opportunities for locals.”

OTML managing director and chief executive officer Kedi Ilimbit is proud to see Ok Tedi become the first major local customer for domestic LNG. “Ok Tedi, being 100 per cent Papua New Guinea [PNG] owned, is happy to be the first one entering into the same segment with Trans Wonderland and ArranEnergy,” he said. “We will now

PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

generate power and drive trucks from Stanley LNG.” Trans Wonderland managing director Larry Andagali said the development of domestic markets for LNG represents a step in the right direction for the broader national economy.

“The next 50 years is looking brighter, and this partnership signifies better things to come,” he said. “We thank Ok Tedi for this partnership and hope that more businesses in the country will follow suit to ensure sustainable usage of our natural resources for an improved lifestyle for all our people in PNG.” PNG

r at a fi r u t t n n plans further drilling at Kesar Great Pacific Gold will look to expand on an already successful drilling program at its Kesar project in Eastern Highlands Province.

While the company’s main focus continues to be the Wild Dog project in East New Britain, it predicts further exploration of the Kesar prospect will unlock value that is not currently reflected in the Canada-listed company’s share price.

Kesar is located immediately adjacent and along strike from the Kainantu mine, operated by K92

Mining. Great Pacific Gold has operated there under an exploration licence through its subsidiary Yaendai Minerals and recently applied for a two-year extension of that approval.

The exploration program has revealed multiple high-grade intercepts across 13 diamond drill holes, totalling 3700m.

At the Anteruno target, one drill showed 3.13m at 3.67 grams per tonne (g/t) gold. The Hampore target showed one result of 0.94m at 3.17g/t gold. A helicopter-flown mobile

MagnetoTellurics geophysics survey was also completed at the site.

Great Pacific Gold chief executive officer Greg McCunn said an upcoming technical report will recommend targets for an expanded Kesar drilling program in 2026.

“We are planning a focused followup program at Kesar," he said.

“We look forward to working with the Mineral Resource Authority and our local stakeholder and landowner groups to renew the exploration licence for a further two years.” PNG

Maiden drill campaign for Kainantu neighbour

Image: Running opossum/stock.adobe.com

South Pacific Metals has commenced its maiden drilling program at the highly prospective Ontenu Northeast prospect within its Osena project area in Eastern Highlands province.

The project lies within a major north-east–south-west corridor known as the Kainantu transfer zone. This o th i et has launched its maiden drill campaign at the Ontenu NE prospect.

corridor also hosts the Kainantu goldcopper mine, operated by K92 Mining.

South Pacific had previously conducted rock chip assay testing on the site, with grades of up to 13.9 grams per tonne (g/t) gold and 388g/t silver discovered, but the area has previously not been drilled.

The drilling will test whether the north-west trending mineralised structures discovered in the third quarter are surface expressions of deeper epithermal gold copper veins. This would be similar to the veins currently being mined by K92 at its Kora and Judd deposits.

The company expects to drill between four and six holes, for a total of about 1500m.

South Pacific chief executive officer Timo Jauristo said the maiden drill program for Ontenu NE will mark a major milestone for the company and the project.

“The whole team is excited to start drilling these holes, [which are] aimed at testing the deeper parts of these mineralised structures for high-grade epithermal gold-copper veins,” he said.

“The first drill hole is planned to intersect several of these structures at depths between 100m to 250m.

“The remainder of the program will further test this structure as well as some of the other mineralised structures [on the site].” PNG pngmining.com PNG Mining

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esources has completed the first field campaign on its uma prospect, part of the larger bei pro ect in Western Province.

The program commenced in late July and followed on from re-processing of historical induced polarisation (IP) survey data. The former ASX-listed company oldMine e plored the area between 2004 and 20 . s field work was carried out over 2 days and included the excavation of seven trenches of varying lengths. t also collected a number of grab samples and conducted small pit excavations.

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Among the assay results from those rock chip samples was one featuring 7.95 grams per tonne (g/t) gold, 0.51 per cent copper, and 31g/t silver.

Other samples included one with a grading of 3g/t gold, 0.66 per cent copper, and 1.66g/t silver, and another that featured 1.5g/t gold, 0.28 per cent copper, and 0.46g/t silver.

Further structural mapping of the area has confirmed that surface mineralisation occurs up-dip from the IP chargeability anomaly.

The bei area comprises one half of the LCL’s EL-2432 tenement. The other half covers Liamu, the site of

ata a Dada porphyry discovery, located approximately 25km to the south-east.

LCL executive chairman Chris van Wijk said the work program was primarily aimed at confirming the structural orientation of the site, “We are pleased to have completed our first field campaign at bei which was successful in delineating a [goldcopper-silver] mineralised structure at surface,” he said.

“We can infer that this structure does indeed project down-dip to the strong chargeability feature observed through our validation of historical IP survey data ac uired by oldmine . PNG

The company undertook three ee o e or to on r hi tori data at the Puma prospect.

Independent review stakes Tolu’s claim at Mt Penck Tolu Minerals has completed an independent review of its recently-flown airborne study of its Mt Penck tenements on New Britain Island.

The prospect covers 1026km2 of what is believed to be highly-prospective gold and copper-lead-zinc mineralisation along the well-studied Kulu-Simi trend.

The independent review has generated three large regional intrusiveporphyry targets, based on the original magnetotellurics results. In addition, six target areas have been identified for follow-up, based on historical ground geophysics and geochemistry 8

testing. A further three magnetic targets have been identified south of the known prospects.

Tolu Minerals managing director and chief executive officer Chris Muller said the independent review will help the company to rank prospective areas for its exploration programme as it is developed over the coming months.

“The review has confirmed the presence of multiple high-priority porphyry and breccia-hosted coppergold targets, all accessible via existing road infrastructure from Kimbe,” he said.

“This strengthens our confidence in the

PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

potential of Mt Penck to host significant mineralisation and guides our upcoming exploration program.”

Muller said the project sits within a broader highly-prospective coppergold belt, with significant exploration activity. Rio Tinto has reportedly applied for an exploration licence for a 1949km2 area adjoining Tolu’s Mt Penck licence area.

“This reinforces the importance of the area, while our tenement package provides an excellent foundation for advancing discovery and potential resource development,” he said. PNG

Image: Stephen Barnes/shutterstock.com

Project updates

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Adyton Resources has reported the final assay results from its “bold” expansionary drilling hole FDD005 at the Feni gold-copper project in New Ireland province.

This particular hole has recorded 158m at 0.72 grams per tonne (g/t) of gold equivalent, including a 32m section at 1.09g/t gold equivalent. It is the fifth consecutive drill hole with assays of greater than 100 grams by metres gold equivalent.

The drill hole, the project’s deepest, found significant molybdenum at the end of the hole. The 383 parts per million molybdenum measurement signifies a direct link to a deeper-

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seated intrusive-related system.

FDD005 also encountered strong and broad zones of gold and copper mineralisation within the “gap” zone that is between the two open-pit resources defined in the maiden resource estimate.

Adyton chief operating officer and chief geologist Chris Bowden noted that the highlighted intersection was of a lower grade than previous drillholes, in part because it was focused in the gap between two defined resources.

“The two very broad zones of goldcopper mineralisation clearly indicate the footprint and scale of the system at Feni is extensive,” he said.

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“We now have higher confidence that FDD005 sits in a structural offset, explaining the significantly wide and highly anomalous grades."

Adyton chief executive officer Tim Crossley said it was a “bold move” to drill in the “gap” area of the project’s block model.

“It is the deepest hole ever drilled at Feni with a gold bearing vertical footprint of greater than 700m,” he said. “Our next focus is to integrate the new data into our historical data set and recent close-spaced drone magnetic survey to vector in on and identify the higher-grade zones within this extensive mineral system.” PNG

St Barbara raises $58m for Simberi project “We are extremely pleased with the overwhelming support for the placement from our existing institutional shareholders and [are] delighted to welcome numerous new high-quality domestic and international institutional investors to

St Barbara’s register,” he said. “The placement allows us to progress the change out of the truck fleet at Simberi to improve efficiency and reliability, as well as finalising the feasibility study and advancing pre-expansion growth capital items.” PNG Image: optimarc/shutterstock.com

A new fundraising placement has given St Barbara the financial muscle to move toward a final investment decision on its planned Simberi expansion project.

The company received firm commitments for an institutional placement that raised $58 million before costs. The placement took place during a trading halt in early October and saw significant demand and overbidding for the new shares.

Funds raised will be applied to some key projects that will enable a final investment decision on the Simberi expansion project. Part of the capital raised will also go toward completing a pre-feasibility study for a new processing hub at St Barbara’s Atlantic operations in Canada.

The issue price of $0.46 was announced on October 7, with settlement occurring from October 10.

St Barbara managing director and chief executive officer Andrew Strelein said the successful placement gives the company confidence in its growth plans across both its projects.

he n n in i help support an expansion of St Barbara’s Simberi gold mine.

pngmining.com PNG Mining

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New Porgera targets leadership skills development New Porgera has launched a new internal training program, aimed at strengthening leadership capability across its workforce.

The joint venture company, which operates the Porgera mine in Enga Province, will deliver the training to around 400 leaders across the business in the first cohort.

New Porgera general manager James McTiernan said the Frontline Leadership program focuses on building three core leadership competencies. It includes separate components and modules on leading self, leading others, and leading a team or organisation.

“Leadership is the number-one thing that’s going to drive our business forward,” he said.

“It’s no longer just about how well you do your job; it’s about bringing out the best in your team and sustaining high performance teams.”

Designed by New Porgera’s Employee Development team, the program consists of one day of theoretical training, followed by three months of in-field coaching

and active feedback sessions while the participants are performing their regular work.

The 400 frontline leaders come from a wide range of roles within the organisation, including foremen, supervisors, and leading hands.

New Porgera senior specialist in leadership and coaching David Keai said the program is designed around the needs of the business. It aims to build leadership capability in line with

the company values of being resultsdriven, fit for purpose, responsible and accountable, honest, and transparent, working in partnerships, achieving a zero-harm workplace, acting with integrity, and building a sustainable legacy.

“Frontline leaders are key to safety, culture and operational success,” Keai said. “This program empowers them with tools to lead effectively and live our values every day.” PNG

New Porgera’s frontline training program will upskill 400 staff in the r t ohort

Woodlark operator signs up chief geologist Geopacific Resources has a new leader at the helm of its exploration function, with Glen Little recently signing on as chief geologist.

The veteran geologist and mining executive has more than 25 years of experience spanning exploration, resource development, project generation, strategy, and business development. He has worked across the global mining industry, with roles in Australia, Canada, Kazakhstan and Portugal, and mining operations working with gold, copper, base metals, and critical minerals.

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In what is a newly-created role, Little will be responsible for driving Geopacific’s exploration and resource growth strategy around the Woodlark gold project. He will oversee the ongoing 30,000m reverse circulation and diamond drilling campaign, which is designed to expand known mineralisation and test multiple new target areas.

Geopacific chief executive officer James Fox said the appointment, and the new role, highlight the company’s confidence and ambition around its key Papua New Guinea asset.

PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

“We are delighted to welcome Glen to the team at such a pivotal stage for Geopacific,” he said.

“His extensive technical expertise and leadership in successfully growing resources across multiple jurisdictions will be invaluable as we continue to advance Woodlark.”

Little himself said he is excited to be joining the project at a pivotal stage.

“I have had the opportunity to evaluate projects globally, and Woodlark stands out as a unique opportunity to create real value,” he said. PNG

Image: SSTC AI Photo&Video/stock.adobe.com.

Project updates

Augustus Minerals to set up shop in Vanapa River

Image: Aku Aku/stock.adobe.com.

Perth-based Augustus Minerals is looking to increase its exposure to Papua New Guinea (PNG) mining and is seeking an exploration licence in the Kira Koiari district of Central Province.

The licence area ELA2955 is located in the Vanapa River region, around 35km north of Port Moresby and 40km along strike from Tolu Minerals’ Tolokuma gold mine.

The licence area is part of the New Guinea metallogenic belt, a 2300km mineralised corridor running along the

central spine and northern foothills of the island of New Guinea. It is regarded as one of the most prospective goldcopper metallogenic provinces in the world and hosts several productive mine operations, including Tolokuma, Kainantu and Porgera.

Augustus Minerals also has an application for a mining licence at the Mt Kare prospect. This is also part of the New Guinea metallogenic belt and lies 600km north of Port Moresby, close to the Porgera gold mine.

Augustus Minerals chief executive officer James Warren said the company has already established contact with local landowners .

“This presents Augustus with a rare and unique opportunity to conduct true frontier exploration in an area synonymous with giant orebodies,” he said. “The application area has had little to no modern exploration activity and we’re excited to be the first company to be allowed to explore the region over such a large area.” PNG

K92 Mining relocates its planned tailings facility 2 Mining recently selected a new site for a tailings storage facility to service the Kainantu gold mine.

This comes after the National Court of apua ew uinea upheld an interim injunction preventing K92 Mining from accessing a previously planned site for the facility.

That earlier site was within the boundaries of an e ploration licence, 2 , held by South acific Metals, which obtained the in unction through its wholly owned subsidiary.

inin ne ite or it planned tailings facility is in an area covered by one of its exploration licences.

n addition to preventing 2 Mining from entering or interfering with the licence area, the injunction also restrained the Mineral esources Authority M A from accepting or processing any applications for leases on tenements in the area.

The in unction was obtained on August 14, with the National Court upholding the order on September .

At issue was an interpretation of The Mining Act, and whether South acific had an exclusive right to apply for a

lease over its owned exploration licence.

2 Mining chief e ecutive officer and director John Lewins maintained that it does not. ather, he said 2 Mining had the right to apply for a lease for mining purposes M over the land, which would be re uired if it were to build a tailings storage facility there.

The Mining Act e plicitly permits the granting of a M for surface infrastructure development, including over land sub ect to a third party exploration licence, provided sterilisation drilling is complete,” he said.

2 has not submitted an application for an M on 2 but has confirmed with the M A that such applications are permissible under the current legislation.”

The new location is within K92 Mining s own e ploration licences, which means the issue is now unlikely to be legally tested.

“The determination in trial as to whether South acific Metals has e clusive right to an M over 2 has no practical implication on K92’s short, medium or long-term operations or growth strategies,” Lewins said. PNG

pngmining.com PNG Mining

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Plant construction

K92’s Kainantu expansion takes off PNG Prime Minister James Marape was on hand when the miner’s Stage 3 e pansion plant at ainantu gold mine recently delivered first production.

K92 MINING has produced its first commercial grade gold-copper-silver concentrate from its new processing plant at the Kainantu mine in Eastern ighlands province.

The mine produces gold, copper and silver from underground operations. 2 Mining declared commercial production at the site in February 20 and has been progressively e panding the operation s scale and capabilities ever since.

The .2 million tonnes per annum capacity plant is part of the company’s Stage 3 expansion project for the mine.

It was formally launched at an inauguration ceremony in ctober, with apua ew uinea Prime Minister James Marape and Mining Minister Rainbo Paita among the guests of honour and dignitaries attending, The guest list also featured other members of national parliament and the Eastern Highlands provincial government, as well as community leaders such as Bilimoia Landowner Association chairman Busa Sio and Associated Landowners Association chairman oka Tinko.

Together, they witnessed a ceremonial pour, which produced a total of 4 ounces of gold dor .

The new standalone plant remains on track for completion of commissioning before the end of 202 .

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PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

K92 Mining’s new processing plant has an annual capacity of 1.2 million tonnes.

It has been delivered under budget and represents the largest growth capital item of the wider Stage 3 e pansion pro ect. Some 0 per cent of the pro ect s overall budget had been spent or committed at the end of the third uarter of 202 .

On track for Tier-1 The processing plant represents a transformational e pansion for the ainantu operation. ith a significant boost to annual capacity, it will significantly increase the mine s throughput and production capabilities.

Supporting infrastructure is already in place, and the plant represents 2 s key step toward its ambition of becoming a Tier 1-quality mid-tier producer in the gold sector. The company plans to immediately begin shipments of gold doré and other concentrates produced at the facility.

2 Mining chief e ecutive officer and director ohn Lewins said the inaugural production at the Stage 3 expansion process plant was a major milestone for the company and operation.

“This achievement is the result of the tireless efforts and collaboration of our workforce, contractors, and partners, he said. commend our team for successfully bringing this ma or pro ect online safely, efficiently, and under budget.

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ewins also emphasised the long term benefits the e pansion will deliver. eyond celebrating this milestone, we are e cited for the significant long term benefits that the Stage 3 expansion will deliver for our employees, communities, and all This achievement is the stakeholders, he said. result of the tireless efforts Lewins further highlighted the important ongoing partnership between and collaboration of our 2 and local communities, noting their workforce, contractors, support had been instrumental to the and partners. pro ect s success. inin i i o “The Stage 3 expansion is expected John Lewins to generate additional employment opportunities in the region and increase the mine s economic contribution to , he said.

2 has emphasised its commitment to working closely with local communities and landowner associations throughout the e pansion process. PNG

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Surface mining

Surface-level success Surface mining in Papua New Guinea continues to unlock minerals in abundance, driving exports, regional development and workforce growth.

EVERY DAY across numerous sites in Papua New Guinea (PNG), some of the world’s toughest machines crawl across the rims of vast open pits.

They carve out gold, copper, and other minerals from landscapes that have helped shape the nation’s modern economy.

These operations showcase the scale and precision of surface mining, a method that has become synonymous with PNG’s largest and most productive mines.

From the high-altitude benches of Ok Tedi to the geothermal heat of Lihir and the twin pits of Hidden Valley, surface mining has long proven its ability to unlock some of the country’s most technically challenging orebodies. It is a form of mining that combines engineering ambition, long-term investment and, in PNG, a deep commitment to maintainingx local partnerships.

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PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

As PNG continues to develop its world-class mineral endowment, surface mining remains central to national growth, driving exports, regional development and innovation across the industry.

Surface mining has been central to PNG’s minerals sector since large-scale commercial extraction began, and it remains the dominant method for the country’s biggest gold and copper producers.

PNG’s geology, characterised by extensive porphyry copper systems and large epithermal gold deposits, lends itself naturally to open-pit mining, allowing operators to access wide, near-surface ore ones efficiently and at scale.

Over time, surface mining has shaped the structure of PNG’s entire industry. Major operations have been developed using conventional truck-and-shovel open-pit methods, supported by robust processing infrastructure and significant investment in haulage,

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Meticulous pit design e o onent o the or er r e inin o er tion

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geotechnical work and dewatering systems. These mines have established PNG as a reliable producer of high-value commodities, attracting long-term international operators and fostering deep local supply chains.

Surface mining also plays an important role in workforce development, particularly in remote regions where large open-pit projects anchor training programs, logistics networks and community partnerships. With ongoing exploration activity across several provinces and operators continuing to optimise pit designs and processing capacities, surface mining remains an economic mainstay and a strategic driver of the country’s mining future.

That’s particularly true for several of PNG’s most significant mines. hile their geology, scale and operating conditions differ, Ok Tedi, Lihir, Hidden Valley, Porgera and Simberi share a common thread: they demonstrate how open-pit mining continues to power the country’s minerals sector.

1. Ok Tedi: High-altitude productivity Located in the Star Mountains of Western Province, Ok Tedi is one of PNG’s longest-running and most recognisable open-pit copper-gold mines. Its high-

altitude setting, steep terrain and heavy rainfall demand careful geotechnical planning and disciplined pit management, yet the operation has consistently delivered strong production throughout its multidecade life.

Ok Tedi’s ongoing investments in haulage efficiency, pit wall stability and resource optimisation have helped maintain output while also supporting hundreds of local jobs and contracting opportunities.

The mine remains a major source of copper concentrate for export markets, contributing significantly to s foreign e change earnings.

o eo or r e inin o er tion in e e i ihir i en e i beri n or er

2. Lihir: Engineering resilience on a volcanic island Situated on Aniolam Island in New Ireland Province, Lihir is one of the world’s largest gold deposits and a standout example of engineering innovation within an open-pit environment. The orebody sits within a geothermal system, with elevated temperatures requiring specialised mining approaches and continuous monitoring.

According to a recent site specific technical report, the operation s open pit reserves are defined by mining assumptions tailored to these unique conditions, underscoring the complexity of the pngmining.com PNG Mining

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Surface mining

Operator St Barbara, which is in the midst of an expansion program on the site, is hopeful of a lease e tension that will see it continue operations until 2034.

3. Hidden Valley: Partnership-driven production The Hidden Valley gold-silver mine in Morobe Province is operated through the Morobe Mining joint venture and features two established open pits: Hidden Valley–Kaveroi and Hamata. Although not as large as Ok Tedi or Lihir, the mine plays a vital role in the regional economy and has steadily improved performance through targeted investment in grade control, waste movement and eet utilisation. ontinued refinement of pit se uences and processing efficiency has enabled idden alley to remain a reliable source of gold and silver production, supporting provincial development and national export totals.

5. Porgera: High-grade gold in rugged terrain The Porgera joint venture, located in Enga Province, is one of PNG’s highest-grade gold mines and a agship open pit operation. Set in steep, mountainous terrain, the site presents significant geotechnical and logistical challenges, which operator New Porgera has addressed through meticulous pit design and robust safety systems.

The mine produces gold and silver concentrates. ontinuous investment in haulage efficiency, processing optimisation and community engagement has allowed the operation to maintain consistent output since its production restart at the end of 2023.

Taken together, PNG’s surface mines represent a substantial share of the nation’s export earnings, with gold and copper consistently among the country’s top revenue-generating commodities. But even beyond direct exports, these mines create broad economic benefits through wages, procurement, infrastructure investment, and the development of skilled workforces.

4. Simberi: Island-based open-pit mining Located in the Tabar Islands of New Ireland Province, Simberi is another open-pit gold operation that has consistently contributed to PNG’s mining output. The site consists of several satellite pits across the island and uses a conventional truck-and-shovel mining method, supported by a modern processing facility.

Image: mediawhalelicenisng/stock.adobe.com

r e inin er e the in t o or re o r e ro e t no n i e in the t re

project. Under its operator Newmont, Lihir continues to invest in pit optimisation, plant upgrades and long-term planning initiatives designed to sustain production and enhance reliability.

16

PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

That’s a situation likely to continue well into the future, with several emerging projects expected to carry on the surface mining tradition. The Woodlark gold pro ect, currently being advanced by eopacific Resources, is one of the most promising: its 2025 drilling campaign has targeted near-surface gold mineralisation at key prospects such as Little MacKenzie, Wayai Creek, Boscalo North and Great Northern. All results so far are consistent with a planned open pit mining approach, and eopacific has the added certainty of a recent lease extension.

Meanwhile, at Wild Dog in New Britain, Great acific old has e panded its drilling program after early results from the Sinivit structure showed very high-grade gold and copper. This includes several zones close to surface, suggesting potential for open-pit extraction. The company is integrating advanced techniques, including light detection and radar to better define geological structures.

On a larger scale, the Frieda River copper-gold pro ect remains one of the most significant potential

future surface mines in PNG. The development plan is based on three large open pits at the Horse-IvaalTrukai-Ekwai-Koki deposits, with ore processed via conventional methods and waste managed in a secure engineered facility.

Surface mining is set to remain the backbone of PNG’s mineral sector now and well into the future, proven by decades of successful operations and ongoing innovation.

With established giants like Ok Tedi and Lihir continuing to perform and promising new projects such as Woodlark, Wild Dog and Frieda River advancing toward development, the future of openpit mining in PNG looks secure.

These projects necessarily combine technological progress, geological opportunity, and wider community engagement. As PNG navigates evolving challenges, this form of mining is set to continue unlocking the country’s mineral wealth, while supporting sustainable economic growth for generations to come. PNG

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Industry events

Solutions summit po returns to ort Moresby in uly with an e panded oorplan, ma or e hibitors, and conference sessions tackling the sector s most pressing challenges.

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PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

Ex o o i inner i hi h i ht

The industry recognises that po is where the strongest partnerships form, deals close, and the sector moves forward together.

A timely conference program omplementing the e hibition oor, the free to attend conference program has been curated in collaboration with the editorial team at inin to deliver practical insights and actionable takeaways for mining professionals across all sectors. The program focuses on a range of critical themes

o

e nin net or in ort nitie re e e t o the e ent Images: Prime Creative Media

PAPUA NEW uinea s mining industry is facing a crossroads.

As the industry navigates workforce challenges, remote logistics, energy transition and evolving safety e pectations, one event brings together the solutions, suppliers and strategic thinking needed to move forward. The inin and Industrial esources hibition and onference po returns to ort Moresby on uly 2, 202 .

The 202 event is already shaping up to be the most significant edition yet, building on the record breaking attendance achieved in 202 .

An e panded oorplan has been designed to enhance traffic ow, increase e hibitor e posure, and create more engaging showcase areas across the e hibition oor. This refreshed layout accommodates more e hibitors while supporting better networking opportunities and more strategic positioning for sponsors and suppliers.

Ma or industry players are already confirmed, with Sandvik, Metso, lackwoods, Tri ab, incom roup and others locked in to participate. The early commitment from these key suppliers signals strong industry confidence in s mining tra ectory and the value of face to face engagement in this market. rime reative Media show director mining events ebecca Todesco said the e pansion re ects the growing momentum across s mining sector. e re seeing strong early interest from both e hibitors and attendees, she said.

he

that address the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing s mining industry today. rom procurement in remote terrain to workforce development, energy transition and safety culture transformation, each session is designed to move beyond theory and into real world application. ndustry leaders will share case studies, proven strategies and emerging solutions that delegates can implement in their own operations.

This is your opportunity to get your business in front of the right people, in the right market, at the right time, Todesco said. e re not ust hosting an event we re bringing the industry to you the e pertise, the innovation and the networks that drive success in s uni ue mining environment.

Among the key themes for the 202 conference are deep dive studies on issues around workforce development, accessing necessary e uipment, and energy transitions.

Procurement and logistics stablishing and operating a mine in s rugged, isolated terrain presents e traordinary logistical challenges that few other mining urisdictions can match. hen the nearest port or serviceable road might be hundreds of kilometres away, conventional supply chain models simply don t apply. onference sessions will e plore how mining companies are adapting procurement strategies for s uni ue geography, managing comple supply chains across difficult terrain, and maintaining operations when delays can cascade into significant cost blowouts. iscussion will cover e uipment availability and parts management in remote

locations, risk mitigation strategies for supply chain disruptions, and the critical importance of forward planning in hostile environments.

The program will also e amine localisation opportunities and the development of s domestic supply chain capabilities. As operations mature and infrastructure gradually improves, strategic partnerships with local providers are becoming increasingly viable, offering benefits in responsiveness, cost management and community engagement. ndustry leaders will share practical approaches to balancing international This is your opportunity supplier relationships with growing to get your business in local capacity.

Ex o i ho e to inter tion th t e to e nin on oin rtner hi

front of the right eo le in the right mar et at the right time ”

Building PNG’s mining workforce s young and growing population Prime Creative Media show director represents an enormous opportunity – mining events Rebecca Todesco, and a pressing challenge for the mining sector. hile the country has the demographic foundation to build a sustainable local workforce, significant skills gaps and training barriers continue to limit the industry s ability to transition from y in, y out operations, to locally staffed mines. onference sessions at po 202 will e amine successful partnerships between mining operators, training providers, and government agencies to develop vocational programs and apprenticeship pathways. iscussion will cover retention strategies, career progression models and the critical role of mentorship in building capability.

The program will also e plore how companies pngmining.com PNG Mining

19

Industry events

are addressing diversity and inclusion, particularly initiatives to increase women s participation in mining roles. ultural considerations in workforce development will feature prominently, alongside emerging training technologies including simulation and virtual reality platforms that can accelerate skills development.

Powering PNG’s mines: From diesel dependence t n t r lut n emote mining operations in face a dual energy challenge that defines operational costs and environmental performance. Securing reliable, affordable power in isolated locations while simultaneously transitioning toward lower carbon energy systems re uires innovative thinking and significant capital investment.

The conference will e amine how mining companies are addressing immediate energy needs through diesel generation, natural gas solutions, and emerging hybrid systems that balance reliability with efficiency. iscussion will also e plore the practical realities of renewable integration at remote mine sites, including solar arrays, battery storage technologies, and microgrid configurations. s substantial renewable energy potential will also be a focus. ndustry leaders will share case studies of successful energy transitions, realistic timelines for achieving net ero operations, and the economic drivers that are making renewable solutions increasingly viable even in s challenging infrastructure environment.

Todesco emphasised that po s value e tends well beyond the two day event itself, creating opportunities for lasting business

20

PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

bo e he r te on eren e i bein e e te to t h the e tor ro in o hi ti tion o n ex n e exhibition oor n i o ore inter tion

relationships and strategic partnerships that drive the sector forward.

This is where real business happens, she said. e re bringing together every part of the industry ecosystem, from ma or operators and e uipment suppliers to service providers and local businesses.

The connections made at po turn into contracts, partnerships, and collaborative solutions. ith e hibition space filling rapidly, Todesco urged companies to secure their positions early. is moving and the mining sector is entering a growth phase, she said. on t wait to get on board. po 202 is where you need to be to position your business for success in this market. PNG Secure your exhibition booth now at pngexpo.com/ getinvolved

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Images: Kumul Minerals Holdings

Cover story

Beyond the mega-project: Kumul's consolidation vision Kumul Mineral Holdings managing director Sarima Kanu is championing regional consolidation to unlock stranded resources and build a more resilient mining sector in Papua New Guinea.

FOR SARIMA Kanu, there's no doubting the recent success of Papua New Guinea's (PNG) resources sector. rom the ongoing e pansion of the k Tedi mining operation to the rapid turnaround of the Porgera joint venture, the industry is being buoyed by a handful of mega-projects achieving big results.

As the managing director of Kumul Mineral Holdings, Kanu has been at the helm of many of the success stories. Kumul has a direct shareholding in both the Ok Tedi and Porgera operations, as well as a stake in Tolu Minerals. On a broader front, the state-owned enterprise represents the national interest across the mining and resources industry.

But while PNG celebrates these mega-project successes, Kanu is already mapping out a decidedly different future for the country's mining sector.

22

PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

is vision doesn t revolve around finding the ne t Porgera or Ok Tedi. Instead, he's looking to the model that underpins some of the world’s most famous mining economies.

"When you look at the developed countries, Australia, Canada, and the US, of course they have big mines,” Kanu told PNG Mining. “But what actually drives their industries is the small prospectors and the small mining companies – there are a lot of them.

"The masses consolidated are making more money than the big boys – and contributing to the economy. f not by ta es, it s by associated business: there's banking, there are supermarkets, there are all these services that feed off the smaller miners.

Kumul Minerals has a stake in both Ok Tedi and the Porgera joint venture.

Sarima Kanu wants to be a catalyst for further exploration in PNG.

Building on success To understand where Kanu wants to take PNG's mining industry, it s worth e amining what umul has already achieved with its agship operations.

Ok Tedi is a particular point of pride. The mine is 100 percent PNG-owned, with Kumul holding 67 per cent and the Western Highlands government and landowners holding the remaining one third. When Kumul came on board, the previous management was planning to shut down operations in 2025 – a date that was later pushed back only slightly to 2029. ne of our first strategies was to have a look at Ok Tedi as a business, as a contributor of cash to the economy of PNG and to the people," Kanu said.

"It is 100 percent owned by PNG. So why are we optimising net present value? If it's BHP, of course you would ma imise this. e looked at delivering more benefits to the people, which meant lowering the net present value and e tending the mine life.

The result k Tedi s life has been e tended to 2050, leaving it on track to deliver what Kanu estimates will be 30 billion kina ($10.8 billion) worth of additional social benefits.

But even that isn't the end of the story.

Like all major open pits, Ok Tedi sits above deep-

seated ore bodies – the source of the original mineral deposits. umul is now e ploring these underground resources, with the potential to e tend operations all the way to 2084 through what Kanu calls "the O'tuk" – the Ok Tedi underground.

Then there's Porgera, where Kumul owns 36.5 per cent alongside Barrick and Zijin's 24.5 percent stakes each. After four years of shutdown ending in 2023, the mine has delivered some spectacular results. Up to June this year, Porgera declared nearly one billion kina ($360 million) in dividends and half of that again in corporate income ta .

"That's something no other mining company has achieved for a long, long time," Kanu said. "And this was achieved despite law-and-order issues and shutdowns on the Highlands Highway. Even bridges were destroyed, and we had to rebuild them very quickly because Porgera is now contributing significantly to the country.

Consolidation ahead These successes at Ok Tedi and Porgera provide the foundation for Kanu's more ambitious vision: a regional consolidation strategy that could transform PNG's mining landscape even more dramatically.

The problem, as Kanu sees it, is straightforward.

Across , unior e ploration companies have identified numerous prospects with resources defined to international I want to be the catalyst standards. But these operators lack the for bringing back capital to develop their discoveries into exploration into the operating mines. Left alone, many of country. these deposits will never be developed Sarima Kanu, managing director, because they're not economical as Kumul Mineral Holdings standalone operations.

Kanu's solution is to consolidate multiple prospects within a region around a central processing facility.

The economics are compelling: a main deposit might underpin a plant producing 150,000 ounces of gold per year. On its own, that's viable. But by trucking additional ore from nearby satellite deposits, each capable of delivering between 60,000 and 120,000 ounces annually, the consolidated operation could support annual production of 500,000 ounces or more.

"It's a chain reaction," Kanu said. "All of a sudden you are economising prospects that would never be economical if they were developed on their own. You have half a million ounces a year in a consolidated strategy that would never materialise if you left it to the tenement holders alone."

The strategy requires Kumul to take an active role pngmining.com PNG Mining

23

Cover story

Sarima Kanu presented at the Petroleum and Energy Conference 2025 in October.

24

early in the process. Rather than waiting for junior e plorers to advance their pro ects or to fail trying – Kumul is identifying promising prospects and doing the preliminary work to demonstrate their quality.

"What I want to do is talk to the tenement holders; we take over and then we consolidate the prospect into this particular strategy," Kanu said, reinforcing Kumul’s role as the initiator of the process.

“We don't want to be seen as a predator, waiting for someone else to do the hard work and then we come in,” he said.

“I want to be the catalyst for bringing back e ploration into the country. umul currently has around five copper gold e ploration prospects under evaluation, primarily focused on porphyry-type deposits. The plan is to upgrade the geological database to a level where major mining companies will see both the quality of the resource and Kumul's serious intent.

Kanu hopes to connect with major players to share prospects that come with high quality data and the backing of the national mining operator. “'It's about them understanding that we are genuine about the industry that we want to build. It's not short-term – we're looking long-term," he said.

PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

Big and small projects in the pipeline While the regional consolidation strategy represents Kanu's vision for transforming PNG's mining sector, Kumul isn't ignoring the traditional pipeline of larger projects that could potentially come online over the ne t five years. afi olpu, rieda iver, owo ap, Mambare, and Yandera all feature in Kumul's planning models as potential major developments. These projects, at various stages of feasibility and permitting, represent the continuation of PNG's mega-project tradition each capable of generating significant revenue, employment, and economic activity in their own right. n the ne t five years, there is a stream of pro ects.

They are already there that we know. We have incorporated them in our model," Kanu said.

But even as these larger projects progress through development timelines potentially spanning several years, Kanu sees the consolidation strategy operating on a different, potentially faster track. The unior e plorer prospects that umul is targeting have already been drilled and have defined resources. The challenge isn't proving the geology – it's making the economics work.

This dual-track approach, supporting the advancement of major projects while simultaneously building out a network of smaller, consolidated operations, re ects anu s belief that s mining future shouldn't depend solely on securing the ne t giant discovery. nstead, the country can build a more resilient, diversified mining economy by making better use of mineral wealth that's already been identified but remains undeveloped.

In search of co-development Underpinning Kanu's vision for PNG's mining future is a fundamental shift in how communities, provincial governments, and mining companies work together. The traditional model – where mining companies operate largely independently while communities and governments receive royalties and compensation – needs to evolve, he argues.

"Our provincial governments and our communities around mining projects are not adequately taken on board to be part of the governance of a mine," Kanu said. "They cannot be just passive receivers of royalties. They should be co-developers of sustainable projects."

The distinction matters because passive receipt of mining revenues rarely translates into long-term development. Kanu points to the Misima mine, recently acquired by Ok Tedi, as a cautionary e ample. hen that pro ect closed, there was little

lasting infrastructure in the surrounding community to show for decades of operation.

Instead, Kanu envisions a model of shared responsibility from the outset.

If Kumul builds a health centre as part of a mining development, the provincial government should provide the workers to staff it as part of its own development plan. “The facility then becomes genuinely sustainable because multiple stakeholders are invested in its success,” he said.

This approach also aligns with growing international e pectations around environmental, social, and governance standards. Kumul has already begun engaging with ma or financial institutions on governance frameworks and sustainability reporting and the company e pects its partners to be on board with these benchmarks.

Whether Kanu's vision materialises depends largely on e ecution. Many factors will need to fall into place, including international partners embracing the model and governance structures evolving to support genuine co-development. ut the ambition itself marks a significant departure from decades of mega-project dependency. If successful, PNG's mining future might look less like a handful of giants dominating the landscape, and more like the diverse, resilient and integrated mining economies that Kanu admires in Australia, Canada, and the US. PNG

With 100 per cent local ownership and consistent production, Ok Tedi holds a pride of place in the Kumul Minerals asset portfolio.

pngmining.com PNG Mining

25

Education and Training

Global expertise for local development DEKA Dynamics brings global mining expertise to Papua New Guinea to help build the next generation of local professionals.

PAPUA NEW Guinea’s (PNG) mining industry demands more than technical knowledge. It requires professionals who understand the underlying principles that drive successful operations.

DEKA Dynamics, a specialised mining training company, has built its global reputation on exactly that philosophy.

Founded in 2014 by Dennis Kattowitz and his wife Hester, the company emerged from a clear gap in the international market for advanced professional development in mining.

Kattowitz brings more than 40 years of industry experience, having started his career as a mine surveyor in a deep-level gold mine and Hester, a data clerk at a gold plant in South Africa. Dennis’ journey through the industry has included roles with AngloGold, AngloCoal, Datamine, Micromine and Mitsubishi, and provided the foundation for understanding what mining professionals truly need.

DEKA Dynamics operates through a global network of subject-matter experts from Australia, the US, Ghana, Peru, South Africa, Spain and Zimbabwe.

Together, they have delivered courses in more than 40 cities, training approximately 200 people around the world each year.

“Many people in the industry today know what buttons to push on the computer, but many do not have a grasp of the underlying principles involved,” Kattowitz said. “That is the space in which DEKA Dynamics operates.”

And nowhere has this approach found more resonance than in PNG, where the company has established some of its most significant industry partnerships since entering in 2018.

Building a local presence What started as a tentative entry into a new market has grown into a substantial operation, with PNG now representing approximately 20 per cent of DEKA Dynamics’ annual training volume.

The company’s local approach has evolved over its seven years.

26

PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

DEKA Dynamics initially partnered with the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) in Port Moresby, working with the earth sciences department. The university provided facilities for training courses, creating a mutually beneficial arrangement that also allowed later-year students to attend some of the sessions at no cost to either the student or university.

Today, DEKA Dynamics runs its Port Moresby courses at a local business hotel, typically scheduling sessions mid-year to align with client needs and operational schedules.

The company’s work also spans PNG’s major mining operations, including on-site training and regional courses for geologists, mining engineers and mining leaders at New Porgera, St Barbara, Kainantu Mining, Ok Tedi and the Mineral Resource Authority, among others.

This e ibility in delivery is central to A Dynamics’ business model.

DEKA Dynamics has been operating in PNG for seven years.

Images: DEKA Dynamics

“We can adjust to small numbers,” Kattowitz said.

“We don’t need 10 people for a training course to take place. If there’s only two people, we can still get someone to go to that country and do that training.”

The company offers more than 60 courses covering geology, mine planning, geotechnical engineering and metallurgy. Training ranges from entry-level technician programs through to specialist courses for professionally ualified personnel. All courses are designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

Community investment A ynamics work in is not ust a y in, y out arrangement. t has taken the formal step of registering as a foreign company and is also working closely with local communities to help accelerate economic and social development across the country.

The company sponsors a valued scholarship program at UPNG, paying the tuition fees for one third-year earth sciences student each year. This has been in place since 2022 but is expanding

from next year, when two students will receive the support. Kattowitz said there are plans to add a third scholarship from 2027.

“We work with the university to select students who have performed well in their second year and show promise for completing their degree,” Kattowitz said.

The selection helps to ensure support goes to students who will benefit most Many people in the from the assistance. industry today know That community focus also extends what buttons to ush to pricing structure. While mining on the com uter but companies pay standard commercial rates, DEKA Dynamics offers many do not have a significantly reduced rates for individuals grasp of the underlying who are unemployed or between rinci les involved ” positions, with students from the UPNG DEKA Dynamics group managing still allowed to join some courses at no director Dennis Kattowitz cost, making professional development accessible to PNG nationals looking to enhance their skills.

“We want to help build the industry and the country,” Kattowitz said.

DEKA Dynamics training modules are interactive by design.

pngmining.com PNG Mining

27

Education and Training

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“It seems only fair that we should be giving something back to the community that we work with. l al r t l al n fit What distinguishes DEKA Dynamics’ training is the breadth of perspective its instructors bring. The company’s subject-matter experts deliver courses across Europe, Africa, Central and Southeast Asia, and South America. This global exposure means they constantly encounter different mining challenges, innovative solutions and emerging best practices.

“Our people go all over the world,” Kattowitz said. “They’re getting a much broader spectrum of information and knowledge from interacting with those clients, which they then bring into the classroom when they’re working with teams in PNG.” The company’s commitment to accessibility is evident in its operations. DEKA Dynamics absorbs

28

PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

Around 20 per cent of the company’s business now takes place in PNG.

all travel and logistics costs for its trainers, which Kattowitz calls “door-to-door” support. Even for PNG, which requires two days of travel and recovery time for most trainers, the company maintains that e ibility.

This approach prioritises relationship-building over help S can ns. profit margins. o ord IP Rexn ain Soluti egal tr R t er u do Pow f we walk away from something with erocoprofit, to fin strial ntact end Indu in d to Get ith en that’s okay,” Kattowitz said. “We’d rather have you w an informed client, than a lost opportunity to provide insight and to educate. That’s why we’ve been in business for 11 years.”

As PNG’s mining sector continues to evolve, DEKA Dynamics remains committed to building long-term capability in the country’s workforce.

The company’s record demonstrates that success in mining education requires more than delivering courses; it demands long-term partnerships with the communities and institutions that surround the local industry. PNG lia

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Material processing

Rethinking mine site materials

The PM1200-20TB pugmill blender has dual-material processing capability.

CSSH brings precision blending technology to Papua New Guinea mining operations, turning waste management challenges into opportunities while extending infrastructure life.

EVERY HOUR of equipment downtime at a remote mine site comes with a price tag that extends far beyond lost production. When access roads deteriorate, maintenance costs spiral; when waste materials pile up without processing options, environmental compliance becomes a burden rather than a standard.

For mining operations navigating Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) challenging terrain, these interconnected challenges demand integrated solutions, not just individual pieces of equipment.

Crusher Screen Sales & Hire (CSSH) has built its approach around understanding these operational realities. As the exclusive distributor for Irish Manufacturers (IMS) equipment in Australia and PNG, the company delivers material management strategies that address the full lifecycle of mining operations.

The local challenge PNG’s mining sector operates under conditions that test equipment and logistics systems. Remote locations mean poor access roads don’t just slow transport but can affect everything from workforce rotation to emergency response capabilities. A deteriorating haul road can add to a maintenance schedule and tyre replacement budgets. Meanwhile, as environmental obligations tighten mines must demonstrate responsible waste management, site remediation and reduced environmental footprints.

30

PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

CSSH’s response centres on the PM120020TB twin-bin pugmill blender, a machine that is designed specifically to address these interconnected challenges.

At its core, the system employs dual independent conveyors feeding each hopper, allowing operators to achieve precise material ratios regardless of aggregate type or moisture content. This accuracy proves essential when blending recycled mine site materials with virgin aggregates and stabilising agents to meet strict engineering specifications.

What distinguishes the PM1200-20TB in PNG’s context is its integration of monitoring and control systems that prevent costly errors. Operators can supervise the entire blending process remotely via iPad, adjusting ratios in real-time as material characteristics change throughout the day. The system’s automated stopping mechanism halts production immediately if materials fall outside specified parameters, eliminating the risk of producing unusable stockpiles that would need expensive disposal or reprocessing.

The machine s dual powder hopper configuration addresses another specific challenge the difficulty maintaining continuous operations when cement or lime supplies arrive irregularly.

While one hopper depletes during production, operators can refill the second without stopping the blend line, maintaining productivity during the

Exclusive backing CSSH’s partnership with Irish Manufacturers (IMS) positions the company as more than a supplier.

It offers a comprehensive material management resource for PNG operations.

Beyond the PM1200-20TB, CSSH maintains inventory and support capabilities for complementary systems that address the full production chain.

CSSH is the exclusive distributor of Irish Manufacturers equipment in PNG.

The BP1200-48TB blender has a four-hopper system th t n n e multiple material streams effectively.

The BP1200-48TB blender, for example, handles higher-volume applications where continuous mixing of dry materials is required, while CSSH’s range of conveyors and stackers enables efficient material handling in confined or challenging terrain.

The company’s dual-nation service model proves particularly valuable in PNG’s context.

While equipment originates from IMS’s Australian manufacturing base – where similar remote mining conditions have refined designs over decades SS provides local technical support, training and parts supply that reduces downtime risks.

Operators gain access to equipment proven in Australia s demanding conditions, backed by service personnel who understand s uni ue operational environment.

This integrated approach extends to hire arrangements that provide e ibility for pro ect based work without long term capital commitments.

Whether supporting a three-month rehabilitation project or establishing permanent infrastructure for ongoing operations, CSSH structures solutions around operational realities rather than forcing operations to adapt to equipment limitations.

As PNG’s mining sector continues expanding into increasingly remote locations, the integration of precision material processing with e ible deployment models becomes essential, rather than optional.

CSSH’s equipment and support model offers a framework for sustainable, cost effective infrastructure development across the project lifecycle. PNG Images: Crusher Screen Sales & Hire

narrow weather windows that often constrain mining schedules.

Mounted on a mobile chassis, the unit relocates between sites as projects progress, eliminating the capital waste of abandoned fi ed infrastructure.

The PM1200-20TB’s versatility addresses the full spectrum of PNG mining infrastructure needs.

Access road construction and rehabilitation benefit from the ability to blend locally sourced aggregates with stabilising agents, creating engineered road base that meets specifications with locally sourced materials. Mine site remediation projects gain particular advantage, where operators can blend waste rock and recycled materials into compliant fill, transforming environmental liabilities into construction assets. aul road maintenance programs benefit from the precision blending that reduces premature deterioration. By achieving exact moisture content and material ratios, roads maintain their structural integrity longer, directly reducing the tyre wear and vehicle maintenance costs that erode operational budgets. The machine’s mobility allows contractors to establish temporary blending operations adjacent to construction zones, eliminating double-handling of materials and reducing the environmental footprint of material transport.

pngmining.com PNG Mining

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Image: Lucian Coman/shutterstock.com

Finance

A

t finan

a

r

s tailored approach to asset finance is helping contractors and mining operators access the capital they need to grow.

RESOURCES & nvestment inance imited is redefining how businesses in apua ew uinea access finance, with a focus on asset finance, community impact and socially responsible lending.

The acific nation s financial landscape presents uni ue challenges that distinguish it from more developed markets. ith appro imately 0 per cent of the population still considered unbanked, access to capital remains a significant barrier to economic participation and business growth. eographic isolation, limited infrastructure in remote areas, and the prevalence of an informal economy create obstacles that traditional banking institutions often struggle to overcome. or businesses operating in s mining and resources sectors particularly contractors, transport operators and service providers these challenges are compounded by the need for substantial capital investment in e uipment and machinery. The gap

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PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

between available financing and actual need has historically constrained growth, particularly for small to medium si ed enterprises that form the backbone of the country s mining supply chain.

This is precisely the market gap has positioned itself to fill. ather than operating as a conventional bank, the company functions as a specialist financier that understands the uni ue cash ow patterns, e uipment needs and operational realities of s resources sector.

As a fully owned financial institution, believes that money should work for the country, not sit idle in a bank account. Through term deposits and tailored asset finance, the company channels capital directly into machinery, trucks and e uipment that create obs, support contractors and strengthen local communities. perations manager Margaret Morre said the company has a specific role to play, beyond traditional banking.

et n n e n he iner e it e i ent ter n on it i ore ter too

te i re to rtner ith b ine e E n i he e r ir i ebe n n r ret orre

value of picking up the phone and speaking directly with our clients. etter still is sitting down face to face over a cup of coffee, where real understanding and real relationships are built. also offers high interest term deposits to individuals, Small to medium si ed enterprises and institutional clients. These provide competitive returns while directly funding the e uipment and business loans that drive s economic activity. ehind the institution is a team motivated by purpose. Morre oined to modernise systems and improve financial access, while vans earlier work with cocoa growers in Madang and ae shaped a deep connection to the communities now serves across the country. orking in made me realise how powerful responsible finance can be, vans said. allows me to contribute to real economic progress. ooking forward, plans to e pand into ae, Mt agen, abaul, Madang and oroka, and is e ploring long term deposit products to help retirees generate pension style monthly income. or us, socially responsible finance means more than lending, vans said. t means being a reliable partner, supporting businesses through challenges and opportunities, and helping grow, one client at a time. PNG Image: RIFL

operates much like a niche market institution, she said. e work closely with landowner companies, road contractors and transport operators groups that play a critical role in regional development. eneral manager business development ussell vans, who oined in April, said s smaller si e is one of its greatest strengths.

As a licensed financial institution governed by ank , we have regulatory strength, he said. ut because we re smaller, we re able to act as a true finance partner. ur clients can call us directly, ask uestions and involve us in their planning. e take the time to understand their business and operate as an e tension of their team, not ust a lender.

This hands on approach has delivered tangible results for businesses. hen a mid si ed transport company needed to e pand its eet to secure a ma or mining contract, traditional bank financing proved too slow and in e ible. worked directly with the company s management to structure a tailored asset finance package that matched the contract s payment schedule and accounted for the seasonal nature of road access in remote areas.

The result was the ac uisition of three prime movers and associated trailers within weeks, not months, allowing the company to fulfil the contract and subse uently e pand its workforce. The e uipment, now fully operational for more than two years, has generated revenue that enabled the business to pursue additional growth opportunities in the region.

This kind of partnership approach is central to s mission. The company provides e uipment and working capital finance that helps contractors manage cash ow, ac uire essential machinery and respond uickly to opportunities in mining, agriculture, transport and infrastructure.

Many of the businesses supporting the mines need e ible finance to keep operations moving, vans said. ur model helps them access income producing assets that build long term capacity. oan structures are tailored to match industry specific cash ow cycles, with most asset classes, including trucks and mining e uipment, ualifying under s programs. ut vans said it s the personal touch that sets apart from other lenders. e still believe finance needs to remain personal at least for now, he said. hile we continue e ploring digital solutions, nothing yet replaces the

pngmining.com PNG Mining

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Mine infrastructure

Tackling the rainfall challenge underground

Ok Tedi’s n er ro n t tion he ter thro h i e net or ne

Ok Tedi’s new underground pump station is successfully facing water management issues in one of the wettest regions in Papua New Guinea.

OK TEDI Mining Limited (OTML) has completed the construction of a critical underground pump station pro ect at its agship copper and gold mine in Western Province. The pump station will advance the overall water management strategy at the mine, while also enhancing safety and saving significant costs.

Operating in one of Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) wettest regions, the Mount Fubilan mine experiences an extraordinary annual rainfall of 10,000mm – more than 10 times the average precipitation in many major cities worldwide. This extreme weather has long posed challenges for underground mining operations, with massive volumes of rainwater discharged into the pit through shafts and depressurisation holes, creating hazardous working conditions and operational disruptions.

The newly commissioned pump station represents a sophisticated engineering solution to this persistent challenge. The system now channels accumulated water through 800mm polyethylene pipes, stretching

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PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

3.2km from the underground tunnel to the surface entrance. From there, the water is safely discharged into the river system, ensuring environmental compliance while maintaining the operational integrity of the mine.

The safe and timely This engineering achievement creates completion of this a safe and dry working environment for underground crews, leading to continuous ro ect demonstrates the productivity and improved conditions strength of collaboration By effectively managing water ingress, across departments.” the station eliminates the risk of ooding Ok Tedi Mining Limited manager in critical underground work areas, of mine support service and allowing mining operations to proceed underground James Waisime uninterrupted regardless of surface weather conditions.

The project was developed and executed over 10 months from August 2024, with construction completed in June. The entire operation was delivered without any safety or environmental incidents, a testament to OTML’s commitment to operational excellence.

FIN

Image: NaLan/stock.adobe.com

In addition, the project came in below budget, achieving a saving of $US1.2 million on its original pro ections, demonstrating efficient pro ect management and cost control.

OTML manager of mine support service and underground James Waisime said the project involved three separate contractors: Tabubil Engineering, the major project electrical team, and Milum Services Limited, working alongside over 40 underground mining crew members, including personnel from OTML's embedded contractor Wokman Teleoks.

The operation featured a diverse team of specialists, including mining engineers, geotechnical and structural engineers, surveyors, boilermakers, pump fitters and electricians.

“This was a true team effort,” Waisime said.

“The safe and timely completion of this project demonstrates the strength of collaboration across departments. I’m proud of the commitment and professionalism shown by everyone involved.”

TM managing director and chief e ecutive officer Kedi Ilimbit congratulated the team for successfully completing the project, emphasising its importance to the company’s operational strategy.

“As a world-class mine, it is imperative that we adopt global best practices,” he said. “The underground pump station is among a number of projects undertaken by Ok Tedi to improve operational efficiency within our mine operation to ensure we continue to deliver results for the benefit of our shareholders the people of estern Province and Papua New Guinea.”

As PNG’s longest-running open-pit copper, gold and silver mine, Ok Tedi has been in continuous operation since 1984.

The 100-per-cent-nationally-owned company is majority-owned by the independent state of PNG, through its mining nominee Kumul Minerals, with the remaining shares held by the people of Western rovince. This ensures all operational benefits ow directly to Papua New Guineans. PNG

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Industry insight

Mining boom rewrites PNG outlook With Papua New Guinea’s mining sector exceeding all expectations in 2025, economists have upgraded growth forecasts for the local economy and the surrounding region.

THIS HAS been no ordinary resources boom.

Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) mining sector performed so far above expectations in 2025 that the Asian Development Bank was forced to upgrade its growth forecast – not just for PNG but for the entire Oceania region.

The September update to the bank’s Asian evelopment utlook report revealed that the acific sub-region’s growth forecast was pushed up from 2.9 per cent to 3.4 per cent, with PNG’s resources sector the primary driver.

Everywhere you look, mining in PNG has delivered exceptional results.

Gold production surged across the country’s major mines during the first half of the year, followed closely by the world gold price, which moved from around $US2700 at the start of the year to an alltime record of $US4200 in October.

The Porgera mine delivered its best half-year result since reopening in 2023, while Lihir, Kainantu and Ok Tedi all exceeded their April projections, capitalising on elevated precious metal prices and various operational improvements.

PNG is now expected to register 9.2 per cent economic growth for 2025.

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PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

But as the calendar ticks over into a new year, the outlook becomes more nuanced. Resource output is expected to moderate from 2025’s elevated levels, with growth forecast at 4.5 per cent for in 2026.

The Asian Development Bank notes several factors that will shape the sector’s trajectory in 2026. Global trade uncertainty, foreign exchange management, and what the report describes as “development challenges”, including law and order, all threaten to wind back the hard-won advances.

The question remains as to how PNG can build on the mining momentum of 2025 to create lasting economic benefits across the economy.

Production dream The scale of PNG’s mining sector outperformance becomes clear when e amining the specifics. uring the first half of 202 , the orgera gold mine in Enga Province achieved production levels not seen since its 202 reopening, benefiting from the soaring gold price and operational stability following several years of closure.

The mine’s renaissance has been particularly significant given a difficult history, and its first half output demonstrated that major PNG mining

PNG’s mining sector is lifting up the wider regional economy, from Port Moresby to the Marshall Islands.

Right: PNG has been the standout economy in the Oceania region.

Image: Maryna/stock.adobe.com

What made 2025 exceptional wasn’t simply that mines produced more . it was the con uence of strong production, elevated commodity prices, and improved operational performance across multiple sites simultaneously.

The Asian Development Outlook notes that the high precious metal prices and upgrades at Lihir and Kainantu created conditions in whcih PNG’s mining sector could deliver returns that exceeded even the most optimistic of prior projections.

This combination of factors transformed what might have been a good year into an outstanding one that lifted an entire region’s economic prospects.

Building up the national economy The mining sector’s performance has delivered benefits that e tend well beyond the mine gates, owing through to government revenues, business confidence and the broader economy in ways that are helping to reshape s broader fiscal outlook.

Mining revenue growth has proved crucial for government finances at a time when other revenue sources have disappointed. The Asian Development Bank reports that the PNG LNG project has underdelivered on tax revenue, creating an estimated shortfall of 30–40 per cent against 2024 government receipts.

Image: iamsevensix/shutterstock.com

operations can deliver world-class results when conditions align.

Lihir and Kainantu similarly exceeded expectations, with both operations benefiting from mine upgrades and operational improvements that allowed them to capitalise fully on the precious metals price surge.

Ok Tedi, the long-established copper and gold mine in Western Province, maintained robust output throughout the first half of the year, contributing substantially to the overall sector strength.

These were performances that forced the Asian Development Bank to revise its April forecasts upward, acknowledging that “mining output in the first half of 202 was stronger than e pected .

The li uefied natural gas sector delivered its own impressive results, with production growing by seven per cent year on year over the first half of 2025. This represented the strongest LNG growth since 2020, driven primarily by the Angore gas field coming onstream and adding meaningful capacity to PNG’s hydrocarbon exports.

Importantly, this growth occurred even as crude oil production moderated during the period, demonstrating the resilience and expansion of PNG’s gas operations. pngmining.com PNG Mining

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Image: New Africa/shutterstock.com

Industry insight

Without the robust performance of the mining sector, this gap would have created serious fiscal pressure. Instead, stronger mining revenue is enabling the overnment to reduce the fiscal deficit to 2. per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) in 2025 and a projected 3.2 per cent in 2026.

Public debt is now expected to decline to 50.5 per cent of GDP in 2025, falling further to 48.8 per cent in 2026. This is a trajectory that strengthens PNG’s fiscal position and improves its sovereign risk profile at a critical time. erhaps e ually significant has been the transformation in foreign exchange availability. The Asian Development Outlook notes that businesses had previously cited availability of foreign currencies as a “major constraint” on operations, with orders taking up to four weeks to fulfil in 2024. This bottleneck has largely cleared in 2025, with recent reports showing that “some foreign exchange orders are now filled the day they are received .

This improvement has unlocked business activity across the economy, supporting imports of machinery, equipment and production inputs that companies need to operate effectively.

The improved foreign exchange situation and stronger commodity prices have also benefited PNG’s agricultural export sector. Cash crops including palm oil, coffee and cocoa all gained from higher prices during the first half of 202 , with the improved availability of foreign exchange supporting the import of vital equipment

38

PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

A surging gold ri e h oin i e with an increase in production from PNG’s major mines.

and other inputs. Export earnings from these commodities are expected to continue increasing throughout 2025, supported by price and improved operational conditions. usiness confidence has responded to all of this movement in kind. Recent survey data suggests that private sector confidence has increased over 202 , a marked shift from the constrained environment of previous years.

What goes up…

The performance of 2025 has set a high bar, and the Asian Development Bank’s outlook for 2026 re ects the reality that resource output is e pected to moderate from this year’s highs. The 4.5 per cent growth forecast for 2026 – The impact of reciprocal revised downward from the 4.8 per cent projection in April – acknowledges that tariffs announced by the the con uence of factors that made 202 US has thus far been exceptional is unlikely to repeat at the milder than expected.” same intensity.

Asian Development Bank Resource output will naturally ease as production returns to more sustainable levels following 2025’s surge. The bank notes that “resource output will likely moderate from the elevated 2025 levels, denting the country’s commodity exports”.

This is not a crisis for a resources-driven economy however, it does underscore the importance of ma imising the benefits from this year’s windfall.

PNG now has a valuable o ort nit to t rn the mining boom of 2025 into sustained economic growth.

Law and order challenges continue to weigh on the investment environment. While not insurmountable obstacles, these issues do require policy attention to ensure that 2025’s mining success translates into sustained economic development, rather than a temporary spike in a volatile commodity cycle.

PNG’s mining sector has delivered a remarkable performance in 2025, one that has lifted not just the nation’s own economic prospects but those of the entire acific region. The .2 per cent growth forecast represents real achievement: mines producing at elevated levels, revenue owing to government coffers, foreign exchange constraints easing, and business confidence rising.

Yet the true measure of this year’s success will be determined by what comes next. As resource output moderates in 2026 and global trade uncertainties persist, PNG faces the challenge of converting this windfall into lasting development gains. The fiscal improvements – including declining debt and a narrowed deficit provide a foundation, but only if accompanied by the policy focus needed to address challenges around financial sector credibility, law and order, and infrastructure investment.

The mining boom of 2025 has given PNG a valuable opportunity. Whether that opportunity translates into sustained prosperity will depend on decisions made in the months and years ahead.

Decisions about how to invest today’s mining revenues to build tomorrow s diversified economy. PNG Image: Drop of Light/shutterstock.com

The global trade environment adds another layer of complexity to the 2026 outlook.

The US has implemented tariffs on PNG products, with a base 10 per cent rate rising to 15 per cent from September. But the Asian Development Outlook report notes that “the impact of reciprocal tariffs announced by the US has thus far been milder than expected”. PNG’s major trading partners – including Australia, with a 10 per cent rate, and Japan and the European Union negotiating lower levels than initially announced – provide a relatively favourable external environment for mineral exports. evertheless, the report identifies risks associated with global trade and policy uncertainty” as factors in the downward revision of 2026 growth.

Against this backdrop, the potential final investment decision on the multibillion-dollar Papua pro ect represents a significant upside risk to the current forecasts. The report explicitly notes that the project “could provide a substantial boost to economic activity”, though it adds that “the forecast does not yet include the potential impact of these proposed resource projects”.

Should the project proceed, it would considerably transform the medium-term outlook.

The report also highlights factors requiring attention if PNG is to sustain momentum beyond the current boom. The country’s impending “grey listing” by the Financial Action Task Force could “increase problems for banks maintaining correspondent bank relationships, while also damaging market perception”.

pngmining.com PNG Mining

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Image: Mehaniq/shutterstock.com

Transport and logistics

PNG’s transport innovation at work Papua New Guinea’s geography has driven innovation in mining logistics, creating operators with unmatched expertise.

WHEN MINING executives sit down to calculate the cost of e tracting apua ew uinea s world-class copper, gold and nickel deposits, a significant part of their budgets won t always be spent on drills, excavators or processing plants.

Rather, roughly half of capital costs for establishing new mines in PNG can be spent on roads, power, water, housing and transport.

It’s a stark reality that sets PNG apart from virtually every other major mining jurisdiction. The combination of rugged mountain terrain, dense rainforest, tropical climate and lack of modern infrastructure creates what many would consider a perfect storm of transport challenges.

Yet PNG’s mining sector continues to thrive.

Rather than deterring investment, these challenges have driven innovation and created a generation of operators with expertise unmatched virtually anywhere in the world.

The companies that have learned to move equipment, supplies and ore across PNG’s

40

PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

demanding landscape haven’t just overcome obstacles; they’ve developed solutions that turn apparent disadvantages into competitive strengths.

A maritime backbone PNG’s geography may lack roads but it does have more than 5000km of coastline across an extensive archipelago and the eastern side of New Guinea island. That is well-served by established maritime networks and infrastructure.

For mining operations, coastal shipping isn’t simply one transport option among many, but often the foundation upon which entire supply chains are built.

The economics are compelling.

A single excavator can weigh 50 tonnes, a haul truck 100 tonnes or more. Mines require cement by the thousands of tonnes, diesel fuel in constant supply, and spare parts ranging from small components to massive mill sections. At these volumes, only maritime transport offers the of capacity and cost-effectiveness mining demands.

PNG boasts some of the world’s richest ore bodies, but it faces logistical challenges.

Image: Ian Geraint Jones/shutterstock.com`

transfer to aircraft, river barges or road transport for final delivery. Maritime transport remains the foundation that makes these complex logistics chains possible.

International shipping specialist Blue Water Shipping entered the PNG market in 2021, bringing global expertise to the country’s maritime logistics sector. The anish head uartered firm s first ma or contract was with Newmont’s Lihir gold mine, on Lihir Island in New Ireland province. Blue Water currently moves around 15,000 20-foot-equivalent units worth of supplies onto the site each year.

Both companies demonstrate how established coastal shipping networks have become critical infrastructure for PNG’s mining sector, infrastructure that continues to expand as the industry grows.

Golden Shipping, operating through its subsidiaries PNG Bunkering and Niugini Port Services, has spent more than two decades addressing PNG’s unique logistical challenges. As part of the Rimbunan Hijau PNG Group, the company provides maritime logistics that keep PNG’s resource sector moving, delivering everything from heavy equipment to bulk materials across the country’s vast archipelago. olden Shipping manages a diverse eet including landing crafts, tugs and barges, and tankers.

According to shipping manager Edward Soo, each vessel type is selected to handle different cargo requirements and operating conditions.

“Our clients need more than just vessel capacity; they need a logistics partner who understands PNG’s unique challenges with cost-effective solutions,” he said.

The company’s service range spans inland waterways, coastal shipping and offshore maritime operations. Golden Shipping offers ship chartering, marine logistics, fuel supplies, wharf facilities and stevedoring services – an integrated approach that allows clients to coordinate complex supply chains through a single partner rather than managing multiple contractors.

For inland mining operations, this multimodal capability proves essential. Coastal shipping delivers equipment and supplies to port facilities, where they

Helicopter transport provides an i ort nt o tion or mining operations.

Taking to the skies Of course, water-borne transport cannot offer a complete logistics solution itself. Unique to PNG, air transport offers something equally valuable: e ibility and access to sites where no other option e ists.

The perception that helicopter services are “prohibitively expensive” doesn’t tell the full story.

It’s true that air transport costs more than road or sea freight in other jurisdictions, but within PNG’s transport mix – where roads often don’t exist and building them can take years – helicopters frequently represent the most economically viable option for keeping operations running.

The Tolukuma Gold Mine in the Central Highlands provides an instructive case study.

From the mine’s commissioning in 1995 until 202 , Tolukuma s operators relied entirely on helicopter transport for fuel, equipment and personnel access. hen road access finally broke through to the site in August 2025, Tolu Minerals estimated it would reduce delivered fuel costs by around 75 per cent.

The significance isn t that helicopter transport was unsustainable; the opposite was in fact true. The mine operated for decades using helicopter services, and while road access has definitely made things cheaper, it has not instigated an overwhelming change to Tolukuma’s operating model.

Outside of Tolukuma, multiple helicopter serviceproviders have built specialised capabilities around PNG’s mining sector demands.

These companies offer multiple critical functions to mining operations specifically. They enable exploration in areas where road access may never be economically feasible. They deliver urgent spare pngmining.com PNG Mining

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Image: Mykhailo/stock.adobe.com

Transport and logistics

parts that keep processing plants running, avoiding production losses that could cost millions. And they transport personnel safely and quickly, particularly valuable when weather closes road access or medical evacuations are required.

Other solutions Beyond established transport solutions, PNG mining operators are increasingly deploying technology to ma imise efficiency and reduce logistics costs. igital eet management systems using S tracking and satellite communications allow operators to monitor vehicle and ship locations, fuel consumption, and maintenance needs in real-time.

This has the impact of reducing downtime and optimising routes across all modes of transport.

Drone technology is also being explored for smallscale supply deliveries to isolated exploration camps, potentially reducing helicopter dependency for routine light cargo movements.

Public–private partnerships offer additional promise. When mining companies invest in roads that also serve communities, cost-sharing arrangements with government can make these shared infrastructure projects viable, while delivering broader development benefits.

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PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

PNG is well-served by established maritime networks n in r tr t re

The Connect PNG program, which aims to build 2500km of new roads and improve 14 major corridors by 2027, explicitly seeks private sector involvement, creating potential alignment between mining logistics needs and national development priorities.

PNG’s logistics landscape is unique, complex and certainly challenging. But this hasn’t stopped mining from taking place.

On the contrary, it’s created an industry of highly skilled and creative problem-solvers. Companies that master PNG’s transport challenges develop operational capabilities that can translate to further success in other markets.

The same geography that demands significant infrastructure investment also helps to ensure those investments create lasting value: roads that serve communities, maritime networks that connect regions, and helicopter services that enable access where none would otherwise exist.

As global demand for critical minerals intensifies, PNG’s proven operations, established logistics networks, and generation of experienced operators become increasingly valuable assets.

The geology attracted the investment; the logistics solutions will sustain it. PNG

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Transport and Logistics

A golden transport service Golden Shipping provides the maritime logistics and bulk shipping options that keep Papua New Guinea’s remote mining operations supplied, connected and operational across challenging island geography.

PAPUA NEW Guinea (PNG) presents one of the world’s most challenging logistics environments.

With rugged mountain ranges and dense tropical jungle dividing the mainland, and further communities scattered across hundreds of islands, the nation’s road network only rarely factors into most transport and logistical operations.

Air transport – light planes and helicopters – helps keep people and goods moving, but at significantly higher cost.

Coastal shipping, on the other hand, is not only a convenient option; it is often the only viable source of connection. Whether it is delivering fuel to power mine operations, moving ore concentrates to export facilities, or anything in between, a shipping line will almost certainly be essential to the project’s success.

Golden Shipping, operating through its subsidiaries, PNG Bunkering and.Niugini Port Services, knows this only too well, and has spent more than two decades addressing the logistical challenges of PNG. As part of the Rimbunan Hijau PNG Group, Golden Shipping provides the maritime logistics backbone that keeps PNG’s resource sector moving, delivering everything from heavy equipment to bulk materials across the country’s vast archipelago.

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PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

The case for coastal shipping The economics of PNG’s geography are stark.

Road construction through mountainous terrain costs e ponentially more per kilometre than in at countries, which explains why even Port Moresby lacks road connections to other major centres..

For mining companies developing projects in remote locations, this often means every piece of equipment, every tonne of fuel, and every supply shipment must first arrive by sea.

The scale of mining operations makes shipping the only practical choice. A single excavator can weigh 50 tonnes, a haul truck 100 tonnes or more. Mines require cement by the thousands of tonnes, diesel fuel in constant supply, and spare parts ranging from small components to massive mill sections.

Air freight becomes prohibitively expensive at these volumes, while coastal shipping can handle diverse cargo types – from containerised goods to oversized mining equipment – in single voyages.

For mine sites located inland, shipping delivers equipment and supplies to port facilities, where they may be transferred to river barges or rough access roads for final delivery a multi modal approach that still depends on maritime transport as its foundation.

Coastal shipping is often the only viable source of connection for mining operators.

Golden Shipping has operated PNG’s waters since 200 , building e pertise in the uni ue demands of the country’s maritime logistics and development projects. Based at Port Moresby with e ible wharf facilities and pro ect etties at various locations within the country, the company manages a diverse eet including landing crafts, tugs and barges and tankers, each vessel type selected to handle different cargo requirements and operating conditions.

Shipping manager Edward Soo said the company’s recent business transformation plan sets it apart in the market. This features a mission driven and integrated approach in handling business logistics of a range of industrial level pro ects, “Our clients need more than just vessel capacity; they need a logistics partner who understands s uni ue challenges with cost effective solutions,” he said.

“By offering everything from ship chartering to stevedoring services under one roof, we can coordinate comple supply chains more efficiently than if clients were managing multiple contractors.”

The company’s service range spans inland waterways, coastal shipping and offshore maritime operations, providing e ibility few competitors can match. Beyond vessel operations, Golden Shipping offers ship chartering, marine logistics, fuel supplies, wharf facilities and stevedoring services.

This breadth of capability has seen the company support projects across multiple sectors: building and construction, oil and gas, energy and resources, and, crucially for the mining industry, commodity and minerals transport.

The eet handles general cargoes, containers, tankers, and bulk shipping, adapting to whatever each project requires.

A partner in transport The mining sector presents particular logistics challenges that Golden Shipping’s experience directly addresses.

Remote mine sites require constant supplies of diesel fuel to power generators and heavy equipment, deliveries that tankers can provide on reliable schedules.

Construction phases demand delivery of cement, steel, pipes and prefabricated structures, often to coastal staging areas with limited infrastructure.

Once operational, mines also need ongoing support. Whether it is transporting spare parts for processing equipment, chemicals for ore treatment, or the ability to move ore concentrates or refined products to export facilities, Golden Shipping has tested solutions. Landing crafts prove especially valuable in PNG’s context, able to deliver directly to beaches or basic port facilities that larger vessels cannot access.

“Mining operations cannot afford supply chain disruptions,” Soo said. “A delayed Our clients need more fuel delivery or missing spare part can than just vessel capacity; halt production and cost tens of millions ur 20 years in these waters means we they need a logistics partner who understands understand the tidal windows, weather PNG’s unique challenges.” patterns and practical challenges of every coastal location where mines operate.”

Golden Shipping PNG shipping This local knowledge translates to manager Edward Soo fewer delays, reduced demurrage costs and greater confidence in supply chain reliability, factors that directly impact a mine s operational continuity and overall longer term profitability. olden Shipping has significant confidence in PNG’s mining future and has plans to expand its services through strategic partnerships and a number of joint ventures.

With the country’s resource sector continuing to grow and new projects in development, reliable maritime logistics remain fundamental infrastructure.

For mining companies navigating PNG’s challenging geography, Golden Shipping’s combination of local expertise, integrated services, and diverse eet capabilities offers the supply chain certainty that remote operations demand. PNG

Golden Shipping has spent more than two decades addressing the unique logistical challenges of PNG.

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Mine spotlight

Milne Bay’s quiet achiever ith strong backing from another local operator, eopacific esources oodlark pro ect looks set to be the ne t ma or mine to come into development in apua ew uinea. with the e tended timeline allowing it to capture several value enhancement opportunities. These were identified during technical workstreams and are e pected to materially improve long term pro ect economics, while reducing e ecution risk.

The S is also incorporating current gold price trends. The trading price has risen appro imately per cent above the assumptions used in the pro ect s 2024 scoping study, and the company is reconfiguring several key pro ect elements as a result. hief e ecutive officer ames o said that once finalised, the document will be a finance ready feasibility study that positions oodlark for the strongest possible economic outcomes .

eo

i e o r e oo r ro e t i o te on or oo r n in i ne ro in e Image: Australian Camera/shutterstock.com

ASK AN industry insider which development pro ect they are most e cited about and you ll likely hear about the multi billion dollar potential of afi olpu or rieda iver. ut while massive in scope, these pro ects still have a long way to run, with plenty of potential obstacles before commercial production becomes a possibility. hile smaller but still with a potential . million ounces of gold to e tract, and more e ploration to take place , eopacific esources oodlark gold pro ect in Milne ay is leading the race to be the country s ne t ma or mine to enter production. eopacific is now targeting delivery of its definitive feasibility study S in the first uarter of 202 ,

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47

Mine spotlight

Image: DigitalSpace/stock.adobe.com

Significant infrastructure designs have been completed for key pro ect elements, including roads, tailings outfall, water storage dams and wharf facilities, with geotechnical analysis confirming the suitability of a revised plant location. This has allowed final layout and footing designs to proceed.

Optimised strategy Strong progress across all ma or technical workstreams has positioned the pro ect well, with the ma ority of technical components of the S set to be substantially complete by the end of 202 . eopacific s engineering partner, ngineering Services, brings deep apua ew uinea operating e perience to the pro ect. t was involved in the oodlark pro ect s initial development phase and has, more recently, completed work at 2 Mining s ainantu gold mine upgrade and St arbara s Simberi e pansion.

This e pertise is being applied to process plant design updates, including a proposed increase in throughput to . million tonnes per annum.

Supporting infrastructure covering water supply, power generation and tailings management will also be enhanced.

Mining operations are being further optimised to take advantage of higher gold prices, with larger e uipment configurations being modelled. These will work to reduce cycle times and simplify the overall mining operation. Taken together, the S changes are e pected to deliver improved cost efficiency, enhanced operational robustness and reduced workforce comple ity.

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PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

eo i i i in to et the be t o ib e e niti e e ibi it t or the oo r ro e t

Milestones ahead and behind The pro ect s pathway to development has been further strengthened by regulatory approvals and strategic investment that underscore confidence in oodlark s potential. n August, Mining Minister ainbo aita approved a two year e tension to the construction and commissioning re uirements under the pro ect s mining lease, pushing the deadline to ctober 202 .

This provides eopacific with additional e ibility to align development, financing and construction schedules with the S outcomes and ongoing e ploration results.

The company has also received positive feedback from the onservation and nvironment rotection Authority regarding proposed amendments to the pro ect s environmental permit. An independent peer reviewer has recommended the regulator proceed with granting the permit amendment, which re ects updated plant throughput and infrastructure layouts. ngagement with the Mineral esources Authority and other government agencies has been highly collaborative. eopacific is also maintaining regular dialogue with umul Minerals as the national government s mining nominee.

Adding further weight to the pro ect s development prospects, established gold producer St arbara has taken a strategic stake in eopacific, ac uiring a 4.4 per cent shareholding in 202 , with the overwhelming approval of eopacific s leadership. t said the investment will bring valuable operating e perience from St arbara s Simberi gold mine, along with technical e pertise and local knowledge as oodlark advances toward production.

Growing the prize eyond the core development work, eopacific continues to advance its e ploration programs that could materially e pand on the pro ect s . million ounce resource base. ecent drilling at the ittle Mac en ie prospect returned high grade gold intercepts, including m at .24 grams per tonne g t gold, 2m at . g t gold, and 0m at 4. g t gold. eak assay results reached . g t at the northernmost auger line.

W W

O Op pa aP P

A ma or 0,000m drill program is well underway across multiple targets, with drilling rates recently increased at both ittle Mac en ie and ayai reek. eopacific has deployed additional diamond drilling rigs, along with earthmoving e uipment, to support road and drill pad construction.

Assay results also continue to highlight mineralised ones across the ulumadau and reat orthern deposits, along with the emerging amwak prospect, providing significant upside potential to the e isting resource inventory. ith the S on track for first uarter delivery, eopacific is positioning oodlark to attract development financing in what o has described as a strengthened funding environment for high uality gold pro ects.

The company is currently undertaking a process to appoint a specialist debt advisory group to support pro ect development funding, with higher gold prices and improved pro ect designs e pected to generate strong interest from the financing community.

A restated ore reserve estimate will be delivered alongside the S, providing potential lenders and partners a comprehensive technical and economic assessment of the pro ect. o emphasised that the e tended timeline re ects the company s eo aci c is well commitment to ma imising long term ositioned to deliver a value, rather than rushing to meet materially stronger ro ect arbitrary deadlines. ith higher gold prices, improved outcome for shareholders” designs, and clearer pathways to de opa i so s i risking, eopacific is well positioned i o am s o to deliver a materially stronger pro ect outcome for shareholders, he said. or an industry that has watched mega pro ects stall and face delays on financing, permitting and social licence challenges, oodlark s methodical advance through each development gate and technical assessment may yet prove that scale isn t everything.

A pro ect that has own under the radar up until now could well be first past the post. PNG

Your Global Procurement Partner Your Global Procurement Partner Procureit has been supporting our customers in the pacific for more than 15 years offering local solutions on a global scale.

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Procurement

Built to procure it Procureit has spent two decades solving Papua New Guinea’s unique supply chain challenges. Now it’s investing in digital tools to even better serve mining operations across the Oceania region.

PAPUA NEW Guinea's (PNG) mining sector operates in one of the world’s most challenging supply chain environments. Remote mine sites, limited infrastructure, complex import procedures, and the sheer distance from major supply hubs create procurement headaches that can halt operations and blow out costs for even the most established operations.

In this demanding context, having a procurement partner who understands not just product specifications but the practical realities of s logistics environment has become essential to operational efficiency.

For more than two decades, Brisbane-based Procureit has built its business around solving exactly these kinds of problems. Its staff members have direct experience living and working in PNG, and the company leverages that expertise to ensure even the most remote mining operations have access to world-class equipment.

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PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

Procureit operations manager Tim Sampson said the company’s longevity in the region speaks to its understanding of what PNG operations require. e ve been servicing and the acific since we were founded in 2003,” he said. “That history matters because PNG isn’t a market you can just parachute into and [hope to] understand immediately.

Operating from Brisbane, positioned near the international airport and the Port of Brisbane, Procureit has built its model around the dual needs of urgency and economy. Air freight enables rapid response when mining operations face critical equipment failures or unexpected shutdowns.

Sea freight keeps costs manageable for planned procurement and larger items. The proximity to both transport hubs isn’t coincidental; Sampson said it’s fundamental to how the company serves time-sensitive mining demands while maintaining competitive pricing.

Procureit is wellversed in the practical re itie o logistics and moving heavy equipment.

Images: ProcureIt

A century of PNG knowledge Behind Procureit’s procurement capability sits a team with more than 100 years of combined PNG experience. This isn’t theoretical knowledge gained from occasional site visits; many staff members have lived and worked in the country, giving them insight into challenges that don’t appear on specification sheets.

Equally important is the diversity of trade backgrounds across the sales team. With expertise spanning mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, and other industrial disciplines, Procureit’s staff can provide vital technical consultation and are not just there to process orders.

When a mine site engineer calls with an urgent requirement, they’re speaking with someone who understands the application, can suggest alternatives if the specified item isn t immediately available, and knows which substitutions will work in PNG's demanding conditions.

Procureit’s global sourcing network also sets the company apart. The network spans thousands of vendors across multiple continents and enables the company to function as a genuine one-stop solution for mining operations in PNG. Rather than maintaining relationships with dozens of different suppliers, mine sites can consolidate their procurement through a single channel that has already established trusted vendor relationships.

The company has also secured favourable terms with major sea and air freight forwarders, passing those savings to clients while maintaining service speed. For mining operations juggling urgent spare parts requirements alongside planned maintenance shutdowns and capital project deliveries, this streamlined approach reduces administrative burden and improves supply chain visibility. e ve built our supplier network specifically to handle the breadth of what mining operations need,” Sampson said.

“From heavy mobile equipment components to processing plant instrumentation to camp supplies – we can source it all.”

Digital procurement ahead Procureit’s commitment to the PNG mining sector extends beyond current operations into leveraging digital tools within the procurement space. The company recently unveiled industrialsource.com.au, a sister platform designed to streamline how acific region customers access industrial products and procurement tools. e re building this platform specifically with our and acific clients in mind, Sampson said.

The goal is to make it faster and easier for acific region mining operations to connect with Australian supply chains, while maintaining our personal service and technical expertise.”

The digital initiative represents a multi-stage project, with full platform integration and expanded regional features scheduled to roll out through 2026. Rather than replacing Procureit’s established procurement model, Industrial We’ve built our Source aims to complement it, offering su lier networ mining operations enhanced visibility into product availability, pricing and delivery s eci cally to handle the timeframes, while retaining access to breadth of what mining the technical consultation that complex o erations need” industrial procurement demands.

Procureit operations manager For an industry where equipment Tim Sampson downtime translates directly to revenue loss, the combination of digital efficiency and human expertise promises a pragmatic evolution in procurement support.

PNG’s mining sector shows no signs of slowing, with major projects in development and existing operations expanding further. As the industry grows, so too does the complexity of keeping remote sites supplied and operational.

Sampson said two decades of PNG experience has taught the company one fundamental lesson.

“Successful procurement in this environment requires more than competitive pricing and fast shipping,” he said. “It demands genuine understanding of the challenges mining operations face, and the technical depth to solve problems before they become production losses.” PNG

Procureit services n the i n ire t ro it headquarters near the ort o ri b ne

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51

Energy

Papua LNG back on track After cost negotiations brought capital expenditure down by $US4 billion, the apua pro ect is positioned for a final investment decision in 202 .

Image: Fotogrin/shutterstock.com

AFTER WEATHERING delays and a projected cost blowout in early 2024, apua ew uinea s apua pro ect is finally approaching the long awaited finish line.

Engineering contracts worth billions are expected to be awarded over the coming si months, a critical environmental permit has been secured, and financing arrangements are falling into place. Total nergies managing director Arnaud erthet has said the pro ect s final investment decision is now in full view.

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PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

This signals a dramatic turnaround for a pro ect that less than two years ago appeared stalled by unacceptable cost estimates from suppliers and regulatory uncertainty.

The apua development, which will add . million tonnes per annum of li uefied natural gas production capacity using infrastructure adjacent to e isting facilities, has overcome significant hurdles in recent months. ro ect partners have successfully renegotiated engineering, procurement and construction contracts

to bring capital e penditure down 22 per cent. The onservation and nvironment rotection Authority has granted crucial evel environmental permits.

And while a final investment decision remains contingent on completing a development forum now scheduled for the first uarter of 202 , the other ma or commercial and technical obstacles that had plagued the pro ect appear to have been resolved.

Bringing costs back to Earth The road to this point has been anything but smooth. hen engineering, procurement and construction firms submitted their initial bids in late 202 , pro ect partners were confronted with capital expenditure estimates that erthet described as absolutely unacceptable . The swollen costs prompted oint venture partners to postpone a final investment decision that had been targeted for early 2024 and return to the drawing board.

The $US14 billion Papua LNG project is ithin i ht o n investment decision.

Rather than abandon the project or proceed with uneconomic terms, the partners Total nergies 40. per cent ownership and the pro ect operator , onMobil . per cent and Santos 22. per cent took the bold step of reopening the bidding process to a broader pool of contractors, including Asian firms that could offer more competitive pricing.

Those renegotiation efforts have proven successful. rime Minister ames Marape recently indicated that project costs are now targeted at closer to S 4 billion, a reduction of roughly S4 billion from the original bids. This breakthrough represents far more than accounting gymnastics by bringing capital e penditure back into a range that makes commercial sense for the partners, while still delivering substantial benefits to , the renegotiation has preserved the pro ect s viability and kept it on track.

Marape said the willingness to restart the engineering, procurement and construction tender process, rather than proceeding with in ated costs or walking away entirely, demonstrated the partners long term commitment to and their confidence in the pro ect s fundamentals. t also re ected the competitive dynamics of the global construction market, where different regions and contractors can deliver vastly different cost structures depending on their experience, capacity and approach to pro ect e ecution.

Navigating the regulatory pathway hile commercial negotiations have dominated headlines, apua has also been making critical progress through the country s comple regulatory framework.

The onservation and nvironment rotection Authority recently granting evel environmental permits for the upstream and downstream components of the pro ect was considered a ma or milestone. t is one of four elements re uired before apua can obtain the critical petroleum development licence.

The environmental permit represents years of assessment and consultation, covering everything from the pro ect s impact on marine ecosystems along the 20km pipeline route to air uality management at the processing facilities.

The remaining re uirements for a petroleum development licence include approval of the pro ect s development scheme by the Ministry of etroleum, a national content plan which has already been submitted to regulators , and completion of a development forum. pngmining.com PNG Mining

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Energy

The Papua LNG project has recently received Level 3 environmental permits.

compared to gas turbine technology used in many older facilities. This design offers both operational e ibility and a reduced carbon footprint for the pro ect. nvironmental credentials are further enhanced by the pro ect s carbon capture and storage capability.

Carbon dioxide extracted during processing will be rein ected into sub surface reservoirs, reducing emissions by around one million tonnes per year. y building ad acent to the e isting facilities, apua avoids the massive infrastructure costs associated with greenfield developments. The pro ect can utilise e isting port facilities, some utilities and established logistics networks.

ExxonMobil, which operates the existing PNG LNG project, will construct and operate the Papua LNG facilities on behalf of TotalEnergies and the joint venture partners, an arrangement that provides operational continuity and efficiency.

This brownfield approach has been central to making the pro ect economics viable. ather than constructing entirely new infrastructure in a challenging environment, apua builds on proven systems and facilities, reducing capital costs and e ecution risks. eyond the technical and regulatory workstreams, Image: Maksim Safaniuk/shutterstock.com

t is this final re uirement that represents the most significant remaining regulatory hurdle before a final investment decision can proceed. The forum will bring together the pro ect participants, the overnment, landowners and local level governments to negotiate benefit sharing arrangements for the life of the pro ect. riginally scheduled for the fourth uarter of 202 , the development forum has been pushed back to avoid clashing with local level government elections in late ctober. The forum is now e pected to take place in the first uarter of 202 . apua s design leverages significant advantages from its pro imity to the country s e isting infrastructure. The pro ect will draw gas from the lk and Antelope fields in ulf rovince through a largely offshore pipeline connecting to processing facilities at aution ay, around 2 km northwest of ort Moresby.

The development will include nine production wells feeding gas to three new electric li uefaction trains. Additional gas will be processed through two existing PNG LNG trains, bringing total export capacity to . million tonnes per annum.

The choice of electric driven li uefaction trains represents a modern, more modular approach

54

PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

Image: 70K0_4W16WO/shutterstock.com

TotalEnergies and its partners are currently advancing financing arrangements. The oint venture is working closely with banks and e port credit agencies to complete the necessary due diligence processes. At the same time, the partners are finalising long term sales agreements with prospective buyers in Asian markets, where demand for natural gas as an energy transition source is strong. s national interest in the pro ect is written into the ownership structure. nder a specific set of back in rights, state controlled umul etroleum can ac uire up to 22. per cent e uity of the pro ect from the point that the etroleum evelopment icence is granted.

Marape has indicated the government will secure a significantly higher revenue share than achieved in the original pro ect. ith engineering contracts imminent, the development forum scheduled for early 202 , and financing arrangements progressing, apua s

The Papua LNG project will feature 320km of pipeline, including 260km of offshore connection.

long ourney toward final investment decision appears to be reaching its conclusion.

After years of preparation and some intensive renegotiations, the project is positioned to reshape s energy sector for decades to come. PNG

Community development

Empowering community through partnership For almost a decade, Project Yumi has bridged the gap between potential and opportunity, delivering education, health services and employment pathways.

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PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

Project Yumi volunteers help deliver vital health and education resources to at-need communities in PNG.

Project Yumi focuses on education, health and community empowerment initiatives.

Project Skul focuses on improving educational access and quality in rural schools.

Through the collection and shipment of classroom furniture, learning materials and stationery, this initiative has helped create hundreds of functional learning environments across the country. hat might seem like a simple desk or a bo of pencils becomes, for a student in a remote village, a key to opportunity and lifelong learning.

Images: Project Yumi

COMMUNITIES ACROSS Papua New Guinea are filled with bright young minds eager to learn, grow and contribute to their country’s future. Yet many of those minds face barriers to accessing education, health services and meaningful employment opportunities.

For people in these communities, support from the private sector, particularly from the mining and resources industry, can make a transformative difference in their outlook.

At the heart of that effort is Project Yumi, an Australian and PNG charity connecting the two nations through education, health and community empowerment initiatives. The organisation has become a trusted development partner since it was founded in 2016, delivering tangible results that change lives.

Project Yumi founder and director Renee Mero said the organisation began with a simple vision for developing youth education. e wanted to give youth the tools they need to succeed, she said. hat started as a small volunteer effort collecting school furniture and stationery has grown into a multifaceted organisation dedicated to building a sustainable future: socially, economically and also environmentally. ro ect umi s three agship initiatives ro ect Skul, ro ect Meri and ro ect ok work together to create lasting impact across education, health and employment, respectively.

Project Meri is designed to empower women and girls by addressing gender inequality through improved access to essential health and hygiene resources. A key focus of the program is women’s health, achieved through collaboration with other non-government organisations and local partners to deliver greater impact across communities.

By working together, Project Yumi helps provide much needed medical supplies, maternal packs, health education and hygiene products to women and girls in under-served areas. Through these efforts, Project Meri promotes leadership, wellbeing and self-reliance, building stronger families and healthier, more resilient communities. ro ect ok is the charity s agship youth empowerment and employment program.

Designed to bridge the gap between education and employment, ro ect ok e uips young people with practical skills, mentorship and pathways into industries that are driving PNG’s growth, including the mining sector.

A natural fit Project Yumi’s work aligns seamlessly with the corporate social responsibility and sustainability frameworks embraced by many mining companies operating in PNG. Its message is a simple, but powerful, statement: when communities are given the tools to thrive, everyone benefits.

The organisation’s programs target several shared goals, including improving education, promoting gender equity, supporting youth employment and strengthening community capacity, while also

connecting with the United Nations’ sustainable development goals.

Partnership opportunities range from sponsoring classrooms kits through Project Skul, to offering internship positions for ro ect ok participants.

Each collaboration is tailored to align with the participating company’s priorities and community engagement strategies, ensuring that every contribution delivers measurable outcomes and visible local impact.

For mining companies in particular, What started as a these collaborations offer a powerful small volunteer effort way to demonstrate commitment to the collecting school sustainable development goals. Goals furniture and stationery around good health and wellbeing, has grown into a quality education, decent work and multifaceted organisation reduced inequality are all connected to dedicated to building a Project Yumi’s varied interventions. sustainable future” In communities where Project Yumi has Project Yumi founder and director delivered resources or training, Mero said Renee Mero the transformations have been tangible.

“Schools that were once struggling with limited furniture now have fully equipped classrooms,” she said.

“Mothers supported through Project Meri have received maternal packs that provide essential items for safe childbirth and newborn care, and ro ect ok graduates are gaining employment in industries that once felt out of reach.”

More than 0,000 people have benefited from The organisation aims to help connect Project Yumi’s initiatives to date, including over more young people in 2700 students who have gained vital employment PNG with education and vocational skills. opportunities.

“These numbers represent more than statistics; they re ect lives changed, opportunities created, and communities strengthened,” Mero said. ach of these success stories re ects what happens when people and organisations work together to invest in human potential.”

More and more, the mining sector in PNG is being pushed to create a more inclusive future for all communities across the country. Mero believes Project Yumi represents the ideal partner in empowering the ne t generation.

“By partnering with Project Yumi, mining companies can e tend their positive impact beyond their operational boundaries, helping to create stronger, better educated and more resilient communities,” she said. ur partners have the confidence that their contributions are not only ta deductible but are also directly supporting life-changing, sustainable initiatives across PNG.” PNG pngmining.com PNG Mining

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Image: Anton Gvozdikov/shutterstock.com

Industry events

Conferences, seminars and workshops Event submissions can be emailed to paul.howell@primecreative.com.au GLOBAL RESOURCES INNOVATION EXPO May 5–7, 2026 Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre The Global Resources Innovation Expo (GRX) is an industry-led conference and exhibition hosted by Austmine in partnership with AusIMM. It represents an exciting evolution from previous Austmine conferences, building on the successful run of GRX25.

The 2026 iteration promises to connect attendees with global delegates while discovering cuttingedge solutions and partaking in insightful discussions.

GRX26 will be a showcase of technology and emerging industries within the mining and resources sector.

• grx.au PNG INDUSTRIAL AND MINING RESOURCES EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE July 1–2, 2026 The Stanley Hotel, Port Moresby The PNG Industrial and Mining Resources Exhibition (PNG Expo) is set to return in 2026 following a recordbreaking show in 2025.

PNG Expo has already gained a trusted reputation within the sector following extensive support from government, associations and industry stakeholders.

The 2026 showcase is set to be the premier regional event for industry professionals looking to expand their

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horizons and connect with high-quality customers who are engaged in PNG and Australia’s key resources sectors, including mining, and oil and gas.

• pngexpo.com QUEENSLAND MINING AND ENGINEERING EXHIBITION July 21–23, 2026 Mackay Showgrounds Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition (QME 2026) will return to the Mackay Showgrounds as the industry converges at state’s leading mining show.

The Queensland showcase will bring together leading stakeholders, thought leaders and working professionals from Australia’s mining sector under one roof.

Considered Australia’s largest regional mining event, QME has been at the heart of the mining sector for more than three decades.

Set against the backdrop of Mackay and the surrounding region, QME 2026 promises to be a showcase of innovation, excellence and unmatched exposure for companies wanting to be seen by mining professionals.

• queenslandminingexpo.com.au BULK HANDLING EXPO 2026 September 16–17, 2026 Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre The Bulk Handling Expo returns to Melbourne for the first time since 2024 for a bigger and better event.

PNG Mining December 2025 – January 2026

As one of Australia’s key exhibitions for the bulk materials handling sector, the event will welcome personnel from across the industry to network, share ideas and shape the profession’s future in Australia.

The exhibition program, curated by the editorial team from Australian Bulk Handling Review, will provide attendees with key takeaways relevant to their daily operations and allow them to discuss the trends present across the nation.

• bulkhandlingexpo.com.au/ IQA NATIONAL CONFERENCE 2026 October 6–8, 2026 Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre Australia’s largest exhibition for the quarrying and aggregates sector is set to take place in the Gold Coast in October 2026 Hosted by the Institute of Quarrying Australia (IQA), the national conference returns after a successful run in Adelaide in 2024. The biennial event will welcome delegates from all around the globe, as well as the IQA’s extensive membership base in Australia.

The Gold Coast iteration will bring together the leading voices in the quarrying and aggregates sector to discuss key industry issues and network across the three days.

Exhibitors will also be able to showcase their products and services to a dedicated quarrying and aggregates professionals in attendance.

• quarry.com.au

PRINT ENEWS +

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Blue Water Shipping

2025/26 | DEC-NOV | ISSUE 6

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