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PNG Expo will be back in July 2026 VOLUME 2 NO. 5 | OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2025
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Central Lime: Building more than a concrete supply
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As PNG’s mining sector enters its next chapter, a measure of progress will be how well services and infrastructure keep pace with its potential.
PAPUA NEW Guinea’s (PNG) mining sector has always been defined by its scale and complexity.
From the rugged highlands to remote coastal deposits, the country holds some of the world’s richest mineral resources, but it also presents some of the world’s toughest operating conditions. It’s a combination that makes services true enablers of mining success.
This issue looks at how mining services and infrastructure are shaping the next phase of PNG’s resources story.
In recent years, we’ve seen that even world-class orebodies cannot always reach their full potential without reliable roads, airstrips, energy supply, communications networks and the specialist contractors who know how to work in challenging terrain. Projects that has invested in these foundations have strengthened not only their own operations but the social and economic fabric of the region around them. Mining services are at the heart of this transformation. Engineers, drillers, logistics providers, environmental consultants and technology suppliers are growing in sophistication and capacity. Local companies are increasingly partnering with global firms to deliver
solutions that match the standards of any major mining jurisdiction. The result is a more resilient supply chain and more opportunities for Papua New Guineans to participate directly in the sector. Infrastructure, too, is an investment in productivity, safety and community. When a mine builds a new access road, for example, it also opens pathways for trade and services. These benefits underpin social licence and demonstrate how resource development can be a catalyst for broader national progress. There is, of course, still much work to do. Transport corridors need expansion, maintenance standards need to be sustained, and local capacity building must continue. But as companies, government and landowners collaborate to develop the services and infrastructure around mining, the rewards flow far beyond the pit or the plant.
In this edition we showcase innovative service providers in PNG, profile projects that are reshaping regions, and hear from leaders who believe the future of mining depends on building these foundations now. Together they tell a story of a sector moving from isolated outposts to integrated value chains – and of a country determined to turn its mineral wealth into lasting, inclusive development.
Paul Howell Editor
6 Industry insight
Moves and milestones
Breaking down the key developments at major PNG mines in 2025.
12 Project infrastructure
Bulldozing challenges
Tolukuma’s road unlocks mining potential in PNG.
16 Mining services
The supporting cast PNG’s mining success depends on specialised service partnerships that create wealth far beyond the site.
22 Cover story
Global quality, local focus Australian workwear and equipment supplier PCD
Global is setting up local operations in PNG.
26 Mining services
Downtime busters
Time is money, and Tidal Fluid Power aims to save PNG miners both through its expert service and advice on hydraulics maintenance.
28 Mining services
Education with impact
More than 2000 students are set to benefit from hands-on science and technology education through Orica’s latest community investment initiative.
32 Mining services
Precision blending solutions
Crusher Screen Sales & Hire is targeting PNG with its precision blending technology designed for challenging mining environments.
36 Mining services
Building PNG’s growth story Ngo Group is positioning itself as a one-stop construction solution for mining companies capitalising on PNG’s economic resurgence.
38 Industry events
PNG Expo levels up Following record-breaking attendance in 2025, PNG Expo is set to return next year with enhanced features designed to maximise value for mining professionals.
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We’re not just here to sell products. We’re here to build something meaningful that will benefit PNG workers and communities for decades to come.
If there’s one common refrain from all the world’s best business minds, it’s about the value that can be generated by investing in people. Everyone from Nobel laureate economist James Heckman to guru author Simon Sinek agrees that growing staff as individuals and as a collective force will ultimately drive organisational success.
Across the mining industry in Papua New Guinea (PNG), that maxim applies not just to staff salaries and remuneration. It’s also about the tools and equipment that help people perform their roles and deliver outstanding results.
PCD Global is helping miners and industrial employers get the best from their staff members through an extensive range of personal protective equipment (PPE), including workwear, health and safety, automotive, engineering solutions and marine parts. In the first step of its internationalisation program, the company has set up a local office and entity in PNG, with logistics hubs set up for both Port Moresby and Lae.
PCD Global managing director Ty Jarvis said the company has been long established in both Australia and the US.
“We’re proud to be well known for our highquality products and ability to fulfil big orders, quickly,” he told PNG Mining.
“We’re looking forward to also offering that advantage to mining operations in PNG through a local entity with direct access to our Australian stock.”
Learn More www.pcd-png.com.pg
Get in contact to hear how PCD PNG add value to your operations. Taunamo R. Idau-Tau – Director |
Breaking down the key developments at major PNG mines in 2025.
PAPUA NEW Guinea’s (PNG) mining sector has been quietly gathering pace. Across multiple operators, new first-quarter figures, exploration results and infrastructure updates are adding up to something more than routine: a sector refining its foundations and picking up momentum.
Newmont
Newmont’s Lihir mine, in New Ireland Province, is doing what large world-class assets do: producing reliably. Lihir delivered 160,000 ounces of gold in Q2.
The mine remains one of PNG’s long-life gold assets, employing more than 5100 people and contributing not only through output but via its
Ok Tedi
Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) posted a robust first quarter for the 2025 calendar year, reporting $US460 million ($689 million) in revenue. Production stood at 28,000 tonnes of copper and 74,000 ounces of gold, driven by favourable commodity prices and strong copper sales.
OTML chief executive Kedi Ilimbit attributed the results to disciplined operations under the company’s ‘Growth 2050’ strategy, saying the company is delivering on financial performance and long-term planning.
These numbers are significant in that help to underscore the fact high capital, remote operations can yield scale returns; and they give OTML the license to invest further in local infrastructure to support haulage, power and logistics, particularly in Western Province, where much of the mine’s socioeconomic footprint falls.
The tone remains ambitious at K92 Mining’s Kainantu operation. The company maintains its annual operational production guidance of 160,000 to 185,000oz gold equivalent (AuEq).
K92 reported 47,817 ounces AuEq produced in the first quarter of 2025, including copper and silver, and achieved metallurgical recoveries of 95.8 per cent for gold and 95.1 per cent for copper. The silver output for Q1 was the miner’s second-highest on record, an increase of about a 75 per cent over Q1 2024.
These operational gains come in tandem with infrastructure expansion. The Stage 3 1.2-milliontonnes-per-annum (Mtpa) processing plant is on track for commissioning in the first half of Q4 2025.
For a mine in a remote part of PNG, throughput scale, reliable power supply and a good camp and logistics base are central to reducing unit costs, and K92 Mining is clearly leaning in.
St Barbara
St Barbara’s Simberi mine in New Ireland has reported encouraging exploration results, with recent drilling beneath existing open-pit areas uncovering additional gold mineralisation and sulphide-rich rock.
The sulphide project under development has the potential to extend Simberi’s mine life by at least 10 years, according to the company.
Even as Simberi addresses fiscal challenges, the new ore zones beneath pits represent vital upside. They could cushion the impact of regulatory risk through responsive mine planning and investment in infrastructure such as access roads, ore haulage routes, and processing extensions.
What this all means
The PNG mining industry is in a period of strong growth.
One of the clearest patterns across all of these projects is the link between infrastructure and performance. Mines that have invested in new processing plants, expanded haulage capacity, reliable power and well-maintained transport corridors are the ones delivering record or nearrecord outputs.
In PNG’s remote terrain, these upgrades are not optional extras but essential drivers of productivity and cost control.
Another common theme is the importance of exploration and ore renewal. Examples like the new sulphide zones identified beneath Simberi’s pits and the grade improvements at Hidden Valley show that sustaining output is not simply a matter of extracting what is already known; extending mine life and pushing into new orebodies underpin long-term production and continued community benefits.
At the same time, fiscal and regulatory conditions remain a powerful influence on mining decisions. The tax assessment at Simberi highlights that mine planning does not take place in isolation. Stable and predictable policy frameworks are critical to supporting the long-term investments required for infrastructure and expansion, and sudden shifts can alter project economics overnight.
The role of local workforce participation, community engagement and supporting infrastructure has also emerged as a genuine performance lever rather than an obligation.
Projects that have established stronger access roads for nearby villages, prioritised local employment, and kept their mine-support infrastructure in good order tend to absorb logistical costs more effectively and respond more resiliently to disruptions. In this way, social investment and operational success are increasingly two sides of the same coin.
Stable and predictable policy frameworks are critical to supporting the long-term investments required for infrastructure and expansion, and sudden shifts can alter project economics overnight.
Operators that maintain clarity on permitting and leases, that continue to expand infrastructure, and engage with belt-scale discoveries are more likely shape the next wave of growth. Monitoring lead times on construction (roads, plant expansions), local supply chain capabilities, and how cost pressures (fuel, labour, regulatory) are managed will be key.
PNG’s mining sector isn’t seeing a boom of flashy headlines so much as a turning point. Incremental wins, infrastructure unlocking cost savings, and discoveries maintaining momentum.
For the companies listed here, these are not isolated updates, but rather signs that the foundation is being laid for sustained, inclusive growth. PNG
Ok Tedi Mining Limited recently affirmed the economics behind its acquisition of the Misima Island gold and silver project from Kingston Resources.
In a prepared statement, the company noted that the valuation and the strategic fit of the project were in line with the goals and direction set out in its “Growth 2050” vision. In particular, it noted the acquisition had a post-tax net present value of $1.86 billion at a gold price of $US2700 per ounce, as declared to the ASX in May.
Ok Tedi confirmed the first payment of $50 million had been transferred at the completion of the deal, with further $10 million milestone payments due after 12 months, and after a final investment decision.
A 0.5 per cent royalty will apply on production above 500,000 ounces of gold, with a buyback option for Ok Tedi set at $25 million.
“The Misima acquisition reflects a long-term strategic investment in Papua New Guinea’s future, aimed at unlocking value for all stakeholders – landowners,
approvals, including the full support of the Ok Tedi board and its major shareholder, Kumul Minerals Holdings,” the company said.
“Ok Tedi engaged expert advisers to ensure the transaction was commercially sound and comparable to industry benchmarks."
Augustus Minerals is advancing a licence application at Mt Kare in Enga province, bringing it within arm’s reach of the historic Porgera gold mine.
The company, through wholly-owned subsidiary ACM Contract Mining PNG (ACMPNG), has been in talks with landowners in the region, as well as governmental departments and other key stakeholders.
It currently holds a “second-in-time” licence application for the site, just 15km from the Porgera gold deposit.
Mt Kare is an alkali epithermal gold deposit, with potential bonanzagrade zones.
The company is already planning the rapid development of an underground audit, subject to gaining access. An aggressive drilling program and advanced studies on the site’s structural geometry are also in the works, with the view of the company better understanding and more effectively targeting the high-grade zones.
Augustus Minerals executive chair Brian Rodan said he had personal history with the Mt Kare project and was excited to be taking it to the next stage.
“I was managing director of ACMPNG in 2012–13 when it was awarded a contract to carry out Stage 1 underground exploration drilling and mine development
Ok Tedi also reiterated the acquisition’s long-term benefits to a range of stakeholders.
“All shareholders of Ok Tedi, including Kumul Minerals Holdings, and by extension the people of PNG, stand to benefit through future dividends, tax and royalty revenue, and broader economic activity,” the company said.
“Ok Tedi also anticipates that Misima landowners will have the opportunity to acquire an interest in the project, alongside targeted investments in local infrastructure, employment, and social services.” PNG
at the Mt Kare gold project,” he said.
“ACMPNG was responsible for assisting with the mine design and provided equipment and expertise to construct the Mt Kare portal and underground mine.
“Augustus has positioned itself as an applicant for the Mt Kare project through the purchase of ACMPNG, which holds a second-in-time exploration licence application, and thus holds an opportunity to potentially secure future access to the Mt Kare gold project.”
Augustus Minerals is a Perth-based, ASX-listed exploration company with a portfolio of projects across Western Australia. PNG
The PNG Government is committed to finalising the community development agreement (CDA) associated with K92 Mining’s Kainantu gold project.
Mining Minister Rainbo Paita, who toured the mine site in August, assured landowners and the local member of parliament that work remains ongoing to ensure each of the remaining hurdles can be cleared.
Mineral Resources Authority managing director Jerry Garry, who accompanied
Paita’s tour, said the CDA has been given legal clearance by the Office of the State Solicitor, and a submission is being prepared for approval of the National Executive Council.
Garry noted that additional development aspirations that landowners had requested be included in the CDA may push the signoff schedule back.
A land ownership and boundary dispute is also ongoing and potentially affecting the finalisation of
Great Pacific Gold had near-immediate success with its plan to double the reach of its diamond drill campaign at the Wild Dog project in East New Britain.
The program, launched in May, was designed to test high-priority targets over a 1.5km strike within the Wild Dog epithermal vein structural corridor. It was originally slated for 2500m but the company chose to expand the program to 5000m in early September.
Just one week later, it reported a drill result with a section containing 322 grams per tonne (g/t) gold.
Hole WDG-08 intersected 8.4m at 46.5g/t gold from 154m. This included a 3.8m section at 93.3g/t gold, and a 0.8m section containing 322g/t gold. The intercept also featured 1.7 per cent copper and 66.3g/t silver, supporting a gold equivalent grading of 49.9g/t.
Great Pacific Gold vice president of exploration Callum Spink said hole WDG-08 had delivered one of the best exploration hits in PNG in recent years.
“These results highlight the exceptional tenor of this epithermal system,” he said.
“The combination of multi-ounce gold with significant copper and silver credits confirms the presence of a robust polymetallic vein structure. With mineralisation open along strike and at depth, we see clear potential for continuity of these high-grade zones and for scale across the broader 15km structural corridor.”
The expanded program will now include 28 diamond drill holes and is expected to continue into early 2026. PNG
the CDA. This is currently before the Land Titles Commission.
Paita urged the landowners and stakeholders involved to resolve their differences so they can start benefitting from the royalties being paid out by the K92 project.
To date, a total of K80 million ($28.7 million) in royalties belonging to the landowners sits in a trust account, awaiting resolution from the Land Titles Commission and the finalised CDA. PNG
LCL Resources, which operates the Ono gold project and the Liamu project, is continuing its divestment of Colombian assets to focus its resources on those Papua New Guinea (PNG) operations.
The company has a binding share purchase option agreement with Tiger Gold corporation for the sale of its Andes and Quinchia gold projects. Under the terms of that agreement, $14 million will be payable by Tiger over an extended timeline reaching to the first gold pour from the assets.
The first cash payment was received in June, when the option was first exercised. A second payment of $2 million is due in February 2026.
According to LCL’s interim financial report, released in September, the company is looking to concentrate its activities solely in PNG. To that end, the focus during the half-year
to June 30 was predominantly mineral exploration for gold, copper and nickel.
The Ono gold project delivered its maiden inferred mineral resource estimate for the Kusi skarn deposit during that term, highlighting 18.3 million tonnes at 1.42 grams per tonne of gold.
The resource, which could have as much as 831,000 ounces of gold, is hosted within a limestone unit belonging to the Owen Stanley Metamorphic sequence.
The Dada gold-copper porphyry prospect, part of the Liamu project, saw systematic trenching and surface sampling over the half-year. The company produced five new trenches confirming porphyry-style veining in the June quarter. The results suggest a large, multi-phase mineralised system, with mineralisation remaining open along strike and at depth.
LCL Resources is now exploring all options for its PNG portfolio, including the sale or joint venture of its assets. PNG
The Papua New Guinea (PNG) Mining Advisory Committee has recommended an extension to St Barbara’s Simberi mining lease.
In the final stages of a 10-month process for St Barbara, the committee is now preparing extension documents and its positive recommendation for review and sign-off by Mining Minister Rainbo Paita. While special mining leases require approval of the wider PNG National Executive Council, the Simberi mining lease extension only requires approval from the minister alone.
The recommendation for the lease to be extended until 2038 is in line with St Barbara’s expected mine life for the Simberi expansion project, based on proven and probable ore reserves.
These were updated in May after a pre-feasibility study confirmed a likely 13-year mine life with total production of 2.2 million ounces of gold.
St Barbara managing director and chief executive officer (CEO) Andrew Strelein said the lease extension is a crucial part of the expansion project, which has the potential to
significantly increase gold production at Simberi.
“Our sincere thanks are again expressed to the managing director of the Mineral Resources Authority and his team in progressing our application with the Mining Advisory Committee,” he said.
“We also thank the committee for its resolution to recommend the grant of an extension of the Simberi mining lease.
“The renewal is a key step towards unlocking the sulphide ore reserves and expanding gold production to over 200,000 ounces per annum.” PNG
Adyton Resources has expanded its liquidity through two separate finance placements, bringing in a total of $CAD20 million ($21.8 million).
The company completed its previously announced brokered private placement, collecting $CAD14 million ($15.3 million) from the oversubscribed sale of 35 million units.
The units, priced at $CAD0.40 each, consisted of one common share in the company and one common share purchase warrant, allowing an extra share to be for $CAD0.60 at any time in the next two years.
Concurrent with the offering, Adyton also completed a non-brokered private placement of 15 million units in the
company for aggregate gross proceeds of $CAD6 million ($6.5 million). These nonbrokered units had the same terms as the brokered placement and were offered to Adyton directors and PNG locals to participate in the company’s financing.
Adyton has a highly-prospective mineral exploration portfolio in PNG, including the Feni Island gold project and the Fergusson Island gold project.
Feni Island has outlined an initial inferred mineral resource of 60.4 million tonnes at an average grade of 0.75 grams per tonne (g/t) of gold, for contained gold of 1.46 million ounces.
The company had completed 3332m of drilling as of late July, with several standout results from the first three drill holes.
K92 Mining recently revealed the latest drilling results from its Arakompa deposit, with significant porphyry-style mineralisation apparent.
The fifth set of results from the
These hit grades as high as 144.2m at 1.18g/t of gold from 45m, including a 93m section at 1.58g/t of gold.
Other results include 76m at 1.43g/t of gold, and 81m at 1.12g/t of gold.
“These preliminary gold assays are very encouraging and demonstrate consistently greater than 100-gramper-metre grade intercepts at relatively shallow depths,” Adyton Resources chief executive officer Tim Crossley said. While exploration continues, the Fergusson Island project has an indicated mineral resource of four million tonnes at an average grade of 1.33g/t of gold. This translates to contained gold of 540,000 ounces for this project alone. PNG
program on the site consisted of 24 holes.
One hole, stepping out approximately 250m to the south from earlier results, has discovered 0.3 per cent copper
The results also show a significant extension of the Arakompa bulk tonnage zone strike extent to the north and the south. The bulk zone is now defined over approximately 1100m and to vertical depths of 800m.
This increases the strike and depth by 200m and 150m, respectively, over the measurements reported in February.
The interpreted bulk zone consists of a thick, intensely altered mineralised halo surrounding the high-grade vein lode, and it remains open in multiple directions.
The Arakompa is a close neighbour to K92 Mining’s existing Kainantu gold project, located just 4.5km from its boundary.
K92 Mining chief executive officer and director John Lewins said the new regional exploration results had delivered multiple high-grade intersections, which will be further explored with the arrival of two new diamond drill rigs by early 2026.
“The additional drilling capacity will support our strategy to significantly ramp up exploration over the next two years and potentially beyond,” he said. PNG
Tolukuma’s new road helps to unlock mining potential in PNG.
IT HAS been a long time coming, but Tolu Minerals’ Tolukuma gold mine in Central Province finally broke through logistical isolation with the arrival of its firstever access road.
When the newly completed 70km Tolukuma–Bakoiudu road officially opened to vehicle traffic in August, it marked a milestone poised to reshape the operation’s economic and community trajectory.
For decades, Tolukuma relied on helicopters to ferry supplies, staff and fuel, a costly method that weighed heavily on operations.
Tolukuma was discovered in 1986 and developed as an operating mine by Newmont in 1995.
It operated until 2015 when the high operating costs, in part due to the lack of road access, proved unsustainable. Tolu Minerals bought the mine and associated permits and land holdings in September 2022.
With the new road now in place, Tolu Minerals anticipates cutting costs by up to 75 per cent, while opening the door to new exploration in previously inaccessible areas of its licence.
And this significant development could not come at a better time. PNG’s mining and quarrying sector is experiencing a significant resurgence, contributing approximately 53.1 per cent growth – around K12.237 million ($4.34 million) in current-price gross domestic product (GDP) – in 2022, according to
National Statistical Office data. The sector’s strength is driving a rebound across the economy, where investments in road infrastructure project not only operational savings but wider prosperity.
Infrastructure as fuel for growth
PNG’s national strategy underscores the importance of transport infrastructure for economic expansion.
Under the Connect PNG 2020–2040 plan, the Department of Works and Highways is tasked with investing in resilient road networks to enhance economic corridors help to boost access to ports and industrial hubs.
Connecting remote sites like Tolukuma to the main network unlocks a cascade of benefits, including lower logistics costs, safer staff travel and more rapid access to health, education and commerce for local communities.
For Tolu Minerals, the new bypass represents a leap beyond legacy constraints.
“The significance of the new roadway service to the Tolukuma Gold Mine cannot be underestimated,” Tolu Minerals chief executive officer (CEO) Ian Macpherson said.
“The road opens up better access to nearly 1300km2 of mineral exploration licences and licence application areas across the broader Tolukuma structure.”
Mine owner Tolu
anticipates the new road helping to cut costs by up to 75 per cent.
Reliable road access means Tolu can deploy heavy drilling rigs, move bulk bagged ore, and reduce reliance on air supply, all of which goes a long way in dramatically boosting productivity and extending the mine’s viability.
Meanwhile, the cost savings projected from reduced helicopter use could be redirected into exploration or community development.
But improved road access benefits more than just miners. Residents in Central Province now gain better connection to schools, clinics, markets and government services previously too distant to reach affordably or safely.
PNG’s experience with mines like Ok Tedi, Porgera and Lihir shows that extractive operations backed by infrastructure can deliver much more than cash flow. They can contribute to public services, employment and inclusion in some of the nation’s most remote regions.
Beyond the immediate benefits, Tolukuma’s road surfaces within a broader national revival. According to the Asian Development Outlook, PNG’s economic growth accelerated to 4.3 per cent in 2024, led by a rebound in resource and non-resource sectors. Mining, in particular gold and copper, was credited with powering that momentum.
Road developments like the one now serving Tolukuma echo across this landscape, smoothing access to investment, accelerating trade flows, and reinforcing government commitments to equitable development.
The momentum generated by Tolukuma is could ultimately ripple outward to other prospects. PNG boasts multiple potential growth sites – Wafi-Golpu,
Frieda River and the emerging nickel corridors –that are currently constrained by geography.
PNG’s National Road Network Strategy (2018–2037), working alongside Connect PNG, earmarks more than K21.1 billion ($7.49 billion) in funding for upgrading roads in key corridors. From 2023–27 alone, K4.81 billion ($1.71 billion) is being invested in 2502km of priority national roads.
These efforts are poised to expand capacity for minerals to reach coastlines, ports and export markets, a potential boon for private operators and national revenues alike.
“This transformative 20-year program aims to unlock the country’s full potential by creating resilient, inclusive, and sustainable transport networks that connect communities, drive economic growth, and foster national unity,” Connect PNG said on its website.
That vision helps to explain why the connection of Tolukuma via road is cause for optimism. It reflects cooperation between government ambition, private investment, and community impact, all aligned around a shared goal.
Tolukuma’s infrastructure milestone is a testament to PNG’s potential. It signals how long-neglected sites can reawaken when infrastructure disconnects are patched. It also underscores how mines can again form the backbone of GDP, exports and community development.
With the resources sector promising continued expansion and key infrastructure projects underway, PNG is forging a path toward sustained, inclusive prosperity. As Tolukuma comes online, its road represents a transformation on which investors, locals, and policymakers can collectively build. PNG
PNG Mining takes a look at the leadership changes from various companies across the country’s resource sector.
PAPUA NEW GUINEA’S (PNG) resources industry has seen several notable appointments and resignations.
Tolu Minerals has announced a planned transition of its most senior management role.
Founding managing director and chief executive officer Iain Macpherson will exit the business from the end of his current contract on November 9. The board praised Macpherson for leading the company through its most recent phase of growth.
“The board of Tolu Minerals is appreciative of [Macpherson’s] efforts in preparing for restart of the Tolukuma Gold Mine and assisting in putting Tolu on the global map,” the company said. “Tolu is at a critical time in its development and preparing for a substantial increase in exploration and resource definition leading into production.”
Tolu Minerals executive chief geologist Chris Mueller has been tapped to lead the company he joined the company in January, having led the exploration function at K92 Mining for eight years prior to that. He has more than 25 years of global mining and exploration experience across underground, open pit and surface operations. That includes 20 years deeply committed to PNG’s mining sector, where he has helped shape several landmark projects.
“Dr Mueller brings a proven track record in mine restarts, resource development and world-class discoveries,” the company said.
With the new community development agreement for its Kainantu project still ongoing, K92 Mining has boosted its community relations leadership with two key appointments.
Stanley Komunt will serve vice president –community affairs and external relations. He joined K92 in January and brought with him more than 20 years of environmental, social performance and sustainability leadership in PNG, Australia and the Pacific.
Komunt has held senior roles with Newcrest Mining and Newmont Corporation, as well as serving as a council member of the PNG Chamber of Resources and Energy. His résumé also includes senior roles with Nautilus Minerals, Morobe Mining joint venture, and Ok Tedi Mining Limited.
K92 Mining chief executive officer John Lewins said Komunt has received a welldeserved promotion.
“Since joining K92 in early 2025, Stanley has made outstanding contributions to strengthening our community affairs and external relations function,” he said.
“His leadership has been instrumental in building trust, enhancing dialogue and delivering meaningful outcomes in our engagement with government, regulatory bodies, and local stakeholders.”
Meanwhile, Felix Kipalan has joined K92 Mining as its new general manager –community affairs and external relations. He brings with him more than 20 years of environmental, social performance, and sustainability leadership in PNG, Australia and the Pacific. Kipalan has held senior roles with Lihir Gold, Newcrest Mining and Newmont Corporation, and chairs the PNG Chamber of Resources and Energy sustainability and climate change committee.
“[Kipalan] brings over two decades of senior experience in sustainability, governance, and stakeholder engagement – with the vast majority of his experience in PNG,” Lewins said.
“These appointments significantly strengthen our ability to deliver on our commitment to responsible mining, sustainable development, and fostering long-term partnerships with our host communities and stakeholders.”.
Barrick Gold
Barrick Mining, which has a major presence in PNG through its operation of the Porgera Gold Mine, has appointed Ben van Beurden as lead independent director of its board, succeeding Brett Harvey.
The former CEO of Shell, van Beurden joined Barrick’s board in May. He brings almost four decades of international leadership across the energy and natural resources sectors. Beyond Barrick, van Beurden is senior advisor on energy transition investments at KKR, an independent member of the board of supervisors of Mercedes-
Benz Group AG, and chairman of Swiss specialty chemicals company Clariant.
Harvey has been a member of Barrick’s Board since 2005 and served as lead director since 2013. He helped strengthen governance, drive board renewal and advance diversity to reflect the regions and communities where Barrick operates.
Barrick chairman John Thornton paid tribute to Harvey’s “exceptional leadership and steadfast commitment to sound governance” and said van Beurden has already brought valuable insights
“Ben’s strategic acumen, global perspective and deep experience in sustainable business management will further enhance our ability to deliver lasting, responsible value,” Thornton said.
Thornton said the appointment reflects Barrick’s commitment to board renewal and ensuring the company can navigate an evolving industry. PNG
Papua New Guinea’s mining success depends on specialised service partnerships that create wealth far beyond the site.
THE MOST successful mining operations understand a fundamental truth: excellence comes from focusing on what you do best, while partnering with specialists for everything else.
Major mining companies excel at finding, extracting and processing resources, but they rely on a vast network of service providers to handle the countless other tasks that keep their operations running smoothly.
This collaborative approach makes genuine business sense. Rather than attempting to master every discipline, from building construction to on-site catering, mining companies can concentrate their resources and expertise on their core mission while accessing best-in-class services from dedicated specialists.
The result is more efficient operations, reduced costs and better outcomes across every aspect of what is an incredibly complex value chain.
The scope of mining services encompasses a wide range of activities. From the sophisticated blasting technology that breaks rock formations to the safety equipment that protects workers, and from the hydraulic systems that power heavy machinery to the construction teams that build processing facilities, these services form the foundation upon which successful mining operations are built.
In Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) unique operating environment, these service partnerships become even more valuable.
Remote locations, challenging terrain, tropical climate conditions and complex logistics create operational demands that require specialised knowledge and equipment. Companies that understand PNG’s specific challenges and have developed solutions to address them provide mining operators with a distinct competitive advantage.
The economic benefits extend beyond individual mining projects. When mining companies engage service providers – particularly those with local operations and community connections – they create employment opportunities, develop local capabilities, and generate economic activity.
PNG Mining unpacks five different service areas and showcases their positive impacts on mining operations.
Technology and equipment supply
Modern mining operations represent massive industrial undertakings that depend on having the right equipment available when and where it’s needed. Equipment failure or inadequacy can shut down entire operations, making reliable suppliers absolutely critical to mining success.
Catering and accommodation services help to ensure mining workforces remain well-fed and rested.
In PNG’s challenging environment, this relationship becomes even more important; equipment must not only perform to specification but also withstand remote locations, difficult terrain, tropical climate conditions, and limited access to maintenance and repair services.
The financial stakes are very real. When key equipment breaks down or fails to meet operational requirements, mining companies face production losses while fixed costs continue accumulating. Beyond the immediate financial impact, equipment problems can cascade across project timelines, affecting delivery commitments, workforce scheduling, and stakeholder confidence.
This reality makes equipment suppliers genuine partners in mining success rather than simple vendors.
Crusher Screen Sales & Hire (CSSH) exemplifies how specialised equipment suppliers are addressing PNG’s unique operational demands. The company brings 17 years of Australian experience to PNG operations, and its manager John Andersen is confident its precision blending technology, specifically designed for challenging mining environments, has an important role to play.
“The rugged terrain and challenging access conditions that characterise PNG’s mining operations align perfectly with CSSH’s equipment capabilities.”
Maintenance can be a make-or-break factor in PNG’s tough mining conditions.
“We’ve spent years perfecting our equipment for Australia’s tough conditions, and we see tremendous potential to bring these same solutions to PNG’s mining operations,” he said.
CSSH’s flagship IMS PM1200-20TB track pugmill demonstrates the sophisticated technology PNG operations increasingly require. This machine features automated programmable logic controllers and comprehensive data management capabilities essential for remote operations.
The remote nature of many PNG mines makes effective services even more valuable.
Mining equipment operates under extreme conditions that could significantly damage ordinary machinery within weeks. Heavy loads, constant vibration, extreme temperatures, dust and continuous operation create maintenance challenges that can make or break mining projects.
The complexity of modern mining machinery means that when systems fail, they often require specialised knowledge and parts that aren’t available from general industrial suppliers.
Hydraulic systems present particular challenges because they power many of mining’s most critical functions, from excavation and material handling to processing and safety systems. When hydraulic failures occur, they typically bring operations to an immediate halt.
In PNG’s remote locations, where replacement parts might take weeks to source internationally,
these critical challenges. The Brisbane-based company focuses on hydraulic system maintenance, repair and parts supply, services designed to minimise downtime and maximise equipment life.
Tidal Fluid Power general manager Tania Howard said the company’s customers often notice when their machines start to slow down or struggle with heavy loads.
“They might also see that their hydraulic system is overheating,” she said.
“That’s when it’s time to bring pumps and motors into our repair centre for assessment.”
The company’s strategic inventory management and rapid response capabilities help to address PNG mining’s most pressing maintenance challenges, with extensive stock holdings ensuring replacement parts can be dispatched immediately rather than ordered with lengthy international lead times.
times excessive fine material creates handling problems. Poor blast outcomes have the potential to cascade through an entire operation, affecting everything from equipment wear rates to processing efficiency and final recovery rates.
Modern mining operations cannot afford this unpredictability. Fortunately, digital technology is revolutionising blasting by replacing guesswork with data-driven precision.
Advanced sensors, modelling software and real-time monitoring systems now enable mining companies to predict and control blast outcomes with unprecedented accuracy.
In PNG’s challenging operational environment, where remote locations limit access to specialist expertise and correcting problems often proves expensive and time-consuming, digital blasting solutions provide crucial operational advantages and risk mitigation.
Orica Digital Solutions leads this technological transformation through a comprehensive portfolio of tools that integrate the physical and digital aspects of mining operations. Head of software product and development Matthew Craft said the company’s solutions span from blast design and execution to orebody analysis and mine simulation.
“Across PNG, there’s a growing appetite for digital mining solutions, particularly those that improve safety, efficiency and visibility across remote or hardto-access operations,” he said.
“That allows PNG mining operations to design blasts according to performance objectives and then present drill-and-blast insights for continuous blast optimisations.”
Orica’s BlastIQ platform exemplifies this digital revolution, serving as a cloud-based central nervous system that integrates data across the entire drill and blast process, providing operators with unprecedented visibility and control over their operations.
Worker safety represents the mining industry’s most fundamental responsibility, where the stakes extend beyond regulatory compliance to encompass human lives, operational continuity and corporate reputation.
Mining environments expose workers to numerous hazards, from heavy machinery and explosive materials to extreme weather conditions and remote locations where emergency responses prove challenging. Personal protective equipment (PPE) serves as something of a final line of defence
against these dangers, so it’s vital that it is created to a high standard.
In PNG’s tropical climate and demanding terrain, safety equipment faces additional challenges. High humidity, intense heat and difficult working conditions can compromise equipment performance while worker comfort affects safety compliance and productivity.
Equipment that fails under these conditions does not only create regulatory issues; it can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. It is therefore vital that mining companies partner with suppliers who understand PNG’s specific environmental demands and can provide equipment and safety gear engineered to perform reliably under these conditions.
When mining companies engage local and regional service providers, they create employment opportunities, develop local capabilities and build the foundation for sustainable economic growth.
PCD Global’s expansion into the Pacific nation demonstrates a comprehensive approach to mining safety equipment and workwear. Managing director Ty Jarvis said the Australian company has established local operations in PNG, with logistics hubs in Port Moresby and Lae.
“We’re proud to be well-known for our high-quality products and ability to fulfil big orders quickly,” he said. “We’re looking forward to also offering that advantage to mining operations in PNG through a local entity with direct access to our Australian stock.”
PCD Global’s commitment extends past product supply to cultural integration. The company is working with local designers to create workwear lines that celebrate PNG’s traditions, while maintaining the safety standards and durability required for mining operations.
Mining projects require substantial infrastructure development before the first tonne of ore can be extracted and processed. From accommodation facilities and maintenance workshops to processing plants and administrative complexes, these construction requirements represent major capital investments that must be completed on schedule and within budget.
Construction delays can postpone revenue generation, making reliable construction partners critical to a project’s success.
The relatively limited availability of skilled trades and specialised contractors in PNG means mining companies often compete for the same construction resources, making established relationships with
capable local providers invaluable. In addition, PNG’s regulatory environment and community engagement requirements add layers of complexity that require local knowledge and experience to navigate effectively.
The Ngo Group of Companies has positioned itself as a comprehensive construction solution for mining companies capitalising on PNG’s economic resurgence. Managing director Bill Sweet said the locally-owned group brings considerable knowledge to remote mining projects and related urban development needs.
“We’re a PNG company with more than 20 years’ experience,” he said. “We’ve worked previously on a range of remote projects and can get new facilities up to specification quickly and safely.”
Ngo Group has structured itself as an integrated “one-stop shop” comprising four complementary companies that handle everything from primary construction and engineering to interior solutions and materials supply, addressing PNG’s complex logistical challenges through unified project management.
While equipment supply, maintenance, technology, safety and construction represent major service categories, PNG mining operations rely on dozens of other specialised providers to maintain their ongoing work.
Transport and logistics services form the backbone of any mining operation, particularly in PNG, where remote locations and challenging terrain make moving people, equipment and materials a complex undertaking. Specialised mining transport companies
and repair services.
provide everything from personnel shuttles and equipment haulage to dangerous goods transport and emergency evacuation services.
Catering and accommodation services help to ensure mining workforces remain well-fed and rested, critical factors for productivity and safety in remote operations. These providers must also navigate PNG’s unique challenges, from sourcing fresh ingredients in remote locations to accommodating diverse dietary requirements across multicultural workforces.
Environmental and regulatory consulting services help mining companies navigate PNG’s evolving regulatory landscape while meeting international standards. These specialists provide everything from environmental impact assessments and compliance monitoring to community liaison and stakeholder engagement services.
Information technology (IT) and communications services keep modern mining operations connected to global markets and corporate headquarters. In PNG’s challenging telecommunications environment, specialised IT providers help to ensure reliable connectivity, data management and cybersecurity for operations that increasingly depend on digital systems and real-time data analysis.
The mining services sector represents more than a collection of suppliers and contractors. These partnerships create a web of economic relationships that multiply the benefits of PNG’s resource wealth throughout the economy.
When mining companies engage local and regional service providers, they create employment opportunities, develop local capabilities and build the foundation for sustainable economic growth. Service providers, in turn, develop expertise and capacity that can serve multiple industries and export markets.
The companies featured in here – from precision equipment suppliers to construction specialists –demonstrate how effective partnerships between mining operators and service providers create value for all stakeholders. Their commitment to PNG’s market, whether through local operations, cultural integration or long-term investment, shows how mining services contribute to the country’s broader development story. As PNG’s mining sector continues to evolve and expand, these service partnerships will remain fundamental to operational success and economic growth. The supporting cast may work behind the scenes, but their contribution to PNG’s resource success story cannot be understated. PNG
Papua New Guinea’s newest safety and supply partner PCD PNG is set up for success.
IF THERE’S one common refrain from all of the world’s best business minds, it’s about the value that can be generated by investing in people. Everyone from Nobel laureate economist James Heckman to guru author Simon Sinek agrees that growing staff as individuals and as a collective force will ultimately drive organisational success.
Across the mining industry in Papua New Guinea (PNG), that maxim applies not just to staff salaries and remuneration; it’s also about the tools and equipment that help people perform their roles and deliver outstanding results.
PCD Global is helping miners and industrial employers to get the best from their staff members through an extensive range of personal protective equipment (PPE), including workwear, health and safety supplies, and automotive and marine parts. In the first step of its internationalisation program, the company has set up a local office and entity in PNG, with logistics hubs set up for Port Moresby and Lae.
PCD Global managing director Ty Jarvis said the company has been long established in Australia and the US.
“We’re proud to be well known for our high-quality products and ability to fulfil big orders, quickly,” he told PNG Mining. “We’re looking forward to also offering that advantage to mining operations in PNG through a local entity with direct access to our Australian stock.”
High quality, direct to buyer
PCD PNG, led locally by Taunamo R Idau-Tau, will focus on key PPE product lines in the immediate term. That range includes sturdy footwear, gloves and other hand protection, and general workwear suitable for harsh conditions and hazardous work sites.
“Our workwear is all designed and manufactured to handle extreme conditions and go the distance,” Jarvis said. “It is produced to the highest standards, using quality materials and precision workmanship.”
Along with a wide range of products with which to work, PCD PNG offers local clients direct access to its warehouses in Australia. This means a minimised turnaround time between order and delivery, even for bulk orders of workwear.
That speed of delivery could be shortened even further, with the company investigating ways to bring more of its supply chain on shore to PNG.
“Long term, the vision is to set up a local manufacturing and logistics base here [in PNG] in order to further enhance the supply chain security,” Jarvis said.
Beyond bringing established product lines into the country, PCD PNG is also committed to developing workwear that reflects the nation’s cultural and
“We’re not just here to sell products. We’re here to build something meaningful that will benefit PNG workers and communities for decades to come.”
environmental heritage. The company is working with local designers to create Indigenous-inspired patterns and designs that celebrate PNG’s rich traditions while maintaining the durability and safety standards required for mining operations.
“We want our workwear to be something that PNG workers can feel proud to wear; clothing that connects them to their culture while keeping them safe,” Jarvis said.
PCD Global managing director
Ty Jarvis
PCD Global is taking a key international step by setting up in PNG.
This approach extends to adapting products for PNG’s tropical climate and challenging terrain, ensuring that all workwear is suitable for the country’s specific environmental demands.
In it for the long term
PCD PNG’s approach reflects a broader philosophy about doing business in the Pacific nation. Rather than simply treating the country as another export market, it is positioning itself as a long-term partner in PNG’s economic development.
“The cheap and easy way would be to just import everything from our existing facilities and call it a day,” Jarvis said.
“But that’s not what we’re about. “We want to give back to the communities where we operate and be a genuine part of PNG’s growth story.”
This approach involves making significant upfront investments in local infrastructure, training programs, and community partnerships.
“We’re not just here to sell products,” Jarvis said. “We’re here to build something meaningful that will benefit PNG workers and communities for decades to come.”
For PCD PNG, investing in people means more than providing quality workwear and safety equipment.
Through local manufacturing, cultural integration and long-term community partnerships, the company aims to highlight how true investment in people can create value that extends far beyond the workplace, building stronger industries and stronger communities together. PNG
PCD Global wants to ensure all of its workwear is suitable for PNG’s specific environmental demands.
16-17 September 2026 Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
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Time is money, and Tidal Fluid Power aims to save miners both through its expert service and advice on hydraulics maintenance.
WHEN MINING equipment stops working, it costs money. Every hour that machines aren’t extracting, moving and transporting means no income, while costs keep adding up.
Tidal Fluid Power understands this well.
As Tidal Fluid Power enters the Papua New Guinea (PNG) mining market, the Brisbane-based company is focused on saving time. Its goal is to keep hydraulic machines working longer and to fix any problems faster. From quick quotes to fast repair and part replacements, Tidal Fluid Power is confident in its speed and quality of service, even in a new market.
Repair or replace?
According to Tidal Fluid Power general manager Tania Howard, hydraulic systems generally offer plenty of warning before they break down completely.
“Our customers often notice their machines slowing down, struggling with heavy loads, or that the hydraulic system is overheating,” she told PNG Mining. “That’s when it’s time to bring pumps and motors into our repair centre for assessment.”
Each client has their own rule for deciding to repair or replace. If repair costs are between 55–70 per cent of the price of a new part, the decision is usually clear. But good decisions need good information. Repairs can be more expensive due to the extra labour needed to remove and reinstall old parts.
“While component parts pricing may not be a large percentage of the job, labour costs can be high,” Howard said. “And the reworked parts often have only a low percentage of useable life remaining,”
Tidal Fluid Power has an expansive warehouse with a wide range of replacement parts always available.
That’s why Tidal Fluid Power often recommends replacing parts.
“Our competitive part pricing supports this,” Howard said. “The labour time and costs are very much reduced, and the turnaround is faster.”
For mining operations in remote locations, the availability of parts can make the difference between a brief maintenance window and weeks of costly downtime. Tidal Fluid Power has deliberately invested in what Howard describes as “a high value of stock on hand” at its Brisbane depot to address this critical challenge.
“We have a large stock and spare parts holding.” Howard said. “Our focus is on availability, service, quality and price.”
This strategic stockpiling philosophy translates into competitive advantage for PNG miners. Tidal Fluid Power’s inventory depth means replacement pumps and critical spare parts can be dispatched from Brisbane immediately, rather than ordered from suppliers much further afield with lengthy lead times.
Howard said that replacement pumps or emergency spare parts can often be sent by overnight bag.
“If it’s in stock, it goes today,” she said. “That’s what makes us different.”
Tidal Fluid Power also maintains an extensive inventory in its Perth branch, helping to ensure rapid response times for mining operations throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
Tidal Fluid Power’s Brisbane repair centre gives PNG miners another option – expert repairs that extend equipment life and save money.
The repair centre, which opened in 2010, houses a team with more than 100 years of combined experience in hydraulics.
“Modern mining gear has evolved beyond simple gear pumps,” Howard said. “Technical knowledge is a must for understanding complex systems and undertaking fault diagnostics.”
A 21st century mine now requires sophisticated pressure-compensated, load-sense piston pumps with electronic controls, among a wider range of high-tech hydraulic solutions.
Tidal Fluid Power recently helped an Australian drilling company by correctly diagnosing the factors behind multiple pump failures.
“We discovered that the pump was not actually over-speeding,” Howard said.
“With our expertise and attention to detail, we accurately diagnosed the problem and solved it quickly by fitting pressurised tank breathers.”
For miners in PNG, this type of diagnostic capability means the ability to avoid costly misdiagnoses and unnecessary equipment replacement.
While there is a cost to taking equipment offshore for the most knowledgeable assessment, that investment can be returned many times through maximising the lifetime of each system.
For PNG’s broader mining sector, where reliable equipment is vital for profitable operation, Tidal Fluid Power offers a smart solution. With extensive repair capabilities, technical knowledge, stock holding and a commitment to fast service at every stage, Tidal Fluid Power helps miners cut downtime and keep working.
“Our mantra of ‘availability, service, quality, price’ isn’t just marketing speak,” Howard said. “It’s how we do business every day.” PNG
More than 2000 students are set to benefit from hands-on science and technology education through Orica’s latest community investment initiative.
ACTIONS, AS they say, speak louder than words.
While businesses often purport to “give back” to the communities in which they operate, the proof ultimately lies in the outcomes associated with that effort.
Social responsibility programs need to be carefully designed, fully funded and well targeted if they are to have a lasting impact. And these are some of the key tenets behind Orica’s long-standing Impact Fund, that has delivered community engagement programs throughout the world.
In 2026, the fund focuses its attention on Papua New Guinea (PNG) and youth education and development.
Orica Digital Solutions coordinator of marketing and communications Lisa Cronqvist said the planned intervention with six secondary schools will instil project- and problem-based learning around science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects.
“Schools worldwide face significant challenges in delivering long-term, sustainable STEM education that provides highly relevant, industry-aligned learning outcomes,” she said. “At the same time, industries are eager to engage with their future workforce, fostering early connections with potential talent.
“However, there remains a disconnect between the skills employers require and what students are taught, highlighting the urgent need for innovative, industry-integrated STEM education solutions.”
To bridge this education-industry gap, Orica has partnered with Brisbane-based STEM Punks Education. This award-winning organisation will embark on a 12-month program with the select schools in PNG, bringing fresh perspectives to the teaching of vital STEM subject areas.
STEM Punks head of education Chris Buswell said the industry accelerator school program has been developed over three years and run in multiple countries, including PNG. It has had demonstrated success at Paradise College in Port Moresby, as well as through a series of programs in Chile, Colombia and Peru.
Participating students are provided with hands-on resources and digital learning guides to get them engaged with concepts such as coding, threedimensional design, and autonomous technologies.
“Instead of simply learning about STEM theory, students dive into real-world scenarios linked to Orica’s operations,” Buswell said.
Orica believes educational investment becomes a logical extension of its presence in communities.
“For example, they could be asked to design a sustainable water filtration system or create prototype for a solar-powered phone charger.”
The 12-month PNG initiative will target six secondary schools strategically selected for their proximity to Orica’s operations. It aims to reach more than 2000 students and provide professional development for over 200 teachers.
Orica’s investment in PNG’s STEM education reflects strategic business interests and genuine community commitment. The company’s operations have supported the local mining industry for more than 35 years and create a natural connection to the region.
Educational investment becomes a logical extension of that local presence.
The specific focus on STEM education addresses a critical skills gap that affects PNG’s development aspirations and the very real industry needs of mining and associated services.
As Cronqvist said, the disconnect between employer requirements and student preparation creates challenges for both sides – students lack relevant skills while industries struggle to find qualified local talent.
The timing is also strategic. With global emphasis on sustainable development and local capacity building, programs that create lasting educational infrastructure rather than short-term aid represent best practice in corporate social responsibility.
By building teacher capabilities and establishing sustainable STEM frameworks, the program creates benefits that extend well beyond the initial 12-month investment period.
The Orica Impact Fund was launched in 2021 as part of a broader $15 million commitment to global community investment. It prioritises support for local, grassroots initiatives across Orica’s global operations, focusing on three key areas: education, environment and health; wellbeing; and social welfare.
Cronqvist said this targeted approach is designed to ensure investments create lasting positive outcomes, not just temporary assistance.
Orica’s Impact Fund is focusing on PNG and youth education and development.
“We believe in creating partnerships that build genuine capability within communities,” she said. “The Impact Fund allows us to invest in programs that will continue delivering benefits long after our initial involvement ends.”
In education, Orica forges partnerships to help children and young people acquire foundational learning skills that will see them able to participate more fully in society and enjoy expanded life opportunities.
Instead of simply learning about STEM theory, students dive into realworld scenarios linked to Orica’s operations.
STEM Punks head of education
Chris
Buswell
The STEM Punks program exemplifies this philosophy, building long-term educational capability over short-term or one-off interventions.
The STEM Punks program, and its planned rollout in PNG, demonstrates how actions can indeed speak louder than words in corporate social responsibility. Rather than simply announcing good intentions, Orica’s Impact Fund is set to deliver measurable outcomes through a strategic partnership and sustained investment.
With more than 2000 students and 200 teachers set to benefit from this initiative, the program has the potential to create lasting change and genuine transformation in the community. PNG
Crusher Screen Sales & Hire is targeting PNG with its precision blending technology designed for challenging mining environments.
FOR A mining equipment solutions provider with more than 17 years’ experience, Crusher Screen Sales & Hire (CSSH) has an impressive reputation for innovation. As the exclusive Australian distributor for Irish Manufacturers (IMS), the company has built a reputation for delivering high-precision blending and processing equipment that addresses some of the sector’s most persistent challenges.
CSSH manager John Andersen said while the company has primarily focused on the Australian market, it recognises the significant opportunities within Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) mining sector.
“We’ve spent years perfecting our equipment for Australia’s tough conditions, and we see tremendous potential to bring these same solutions to PNG’s mining operations,” he said.
“The rugged terrain and challenging access conditions that characterise PNG’s mining
The IMS-PM120020TB pugmill twin feed hopper blender provides accuracy to mining and quarry operations.
operations align perfectly with CSSH’s equipment capabilities, making the expansion into this market a natural progression.”
Innovation through partnership
CSSH’s innovation philosophy centres on collaborative development with IMS to create equipment specifically designed for challenging operating conditions.
This partnership approach has enabled CSSH to develop solutions designed to address real-world industry challenges rather than simply adapting existing technology.
“Our approach is simple: we listen to what our customers need in the field, then we engineer solutions that actually work in those environments,” Andersen said. “Every piece of equipment we develop then goes through rigorous testing in
real-world conditions because we know that’s the only way to deliver reliable solutions to our mining clients.”
This commitment to innovation has led to the development of automated systems with advanced programmable logic controllers and recording capabilities, representing a significant technological advancement in material processing equipment.
CSSH addresses three critical service areas within the mining and quarrying sectors.
The first involves helping operations meet stringent road base standards through precision blending of tiny rock particles and dust (fines) into raw products, ensuring compliance with infrastructure requirements.
The second area focuses on environmental sustainability by enabling the blending of recycled materials with virgin quarry products, significantly reducing raw material consumption and waste
The IMS PM105016TB pugmill was introduced in early 2024.
The third service area encompasses mine remediation projects, where equipment can be adapted to produce slurries for rehabilitation work.
“We are seeing increased demand for equipment that not only improves operational efficiency but also helps our clients meet their environmental commitments,” Andersen said.
“These service areas reflect the industry’s growing emphasis on operational efficiency, environmental
By concentrating on these specific challenges, CSSH has positioned itself as a specialist provider capable of delivering targeted solutions rather than generic equipment options.
The flagship IMS PM1200-20TB track pugmill represents the pinnacle of CSSH’s equipment offering, featuring two 5m feed hoppers, each with a 10m³ capacity.
The machine can handle two raw materials, while adding up to two powders and two liquids, all managed through a fully-automated and programmable logic controller system. The operation can be conducted through a tablet device from either the cabin of a loader or the site office.
Andersen said the unit’s 3m pugbox helps to ensure quality mixing when handling high powder percentages, making it ideal for roller-compacted
The IMS PM120024TB pugmill operating with the IMS
Complementing the pugmill is the BP1200-48TB track blender, powered by a Cat C7 generator with mains power connectivity option. This features four 5m hoppers each holding 12m³ of material.
“What sets our PM1200-20TB apart is that it’s the only pugmill blender on the market with two completely separate conveyor systems,” Andersen said. “This gives our clients unmatched precision in their blending operations.”
The BP1200-914S twin feed hopper blender also offers portability advantages with its six jacking legs system. This allows for 2.5m drop deck transportation, while maintaining constant flow through electric gear drive motors with variable speed inverters.
PNG’s mining operations face their own unique challenges. With remote locations and difficult terrain conditions, the available roads are often unpaved and result in damage and increased wear to any vehicle or machine using them.
CSSH’s precision blending technology offers PNG mining operations the ability to optimise material composition for their access roads, improving their durability and reducing maintenance requirements.
The automated recording systems provide comprehensive data management capabilities essential for operations in remote locations where monitoring and quality control can be challenging.
Environmental benefits include reduced transport movements through on-site material optimisation and decreased waste generation through recycled material integration.
The equipment’s serviceability features and remote monitoring capabilities address the practical challenges of maintaining complex machinery in PNG’s remote mining locations. These advantages translate into reduced operational costs, improved compliance with environmental standards, and enhanced operational efficiency for PNG mining companies seeking to optimise their material processing capabilities.
CSSH’s expansion into PNG’s mining sector represents a strategic alignment between proven Australian technology and that market’s specific operational requirements. The company’s focus on precision, automation and environmental responsibility positions it well to support PNG’s mining industry as it continues to evolve and modernise. PNG
Combining the resources of our respected editorial team with the knowledge and insights of some of the best and brightest minds in the sector, Mining keeps you up-to-date with the latest news, discussions, innovation and projects in the Australian mining sector.
Ngo Group of companies is positioning itself as a one-stop construction solution for mining companies capitalising on PNG’s economic resurgence.
PAPUA NEW Guinea’s (PNG) national economy is growing at rates not seen for many years. The World Bank is predicting a 4.7 per cent growth rate in 2025, which will bring the national gross domestic product (GDP) to $US32.8 billion ($49.2 billion).
And that growth is being led by the resources sector, with higher commodity prices driving mining profits, in particular. Importantly, more of that wealth is also staying in the country and having a multiplier effect on local economic activity.
This type of economic growth is often most visible through a rise in construction activity, and PNG builders have been seeing a wave of new homes and commercial centres across the country’s urban areas.
Ngo Group managing director Bill Sweet said that construction boom is only likely to increase further as the benefits of economic growth flow throughout the country.
“We’re bracing for a real uptick in building activity from next year,” he said. “Lae and Port Moresby will be the hot spots, but also Mount Hagen and
Kokopo, which have close proximity to some of the major mines.”
Sweet is now positioning the four companies within the Ngo Group to be of service to mining organisations and developers directly, through the construction of accommodation facilities and other on-site infrastructure, and indirectly, through new residence development for their key staff and stakeholders.
The economic outlook for PNG includes a significant increase in mining activity through activation of new licences, extensions of previous permits, and an expected surge in exploration activity. With each expanded project comes the need for more staff on the ground and, with that influx of people, further accommodation and hospitality infrastructure.
Sweet said Ngo Group is well-placed to contribute to even the most remote mining sector construction projects.
“We’re a PNG company with more than 20 years’ experience. We’ve worked previously on a range of remote projects and can get new facilities up to specification quickly and safely,” he said.
Ngo Group is also ready and able to build in the cities and towns. Sweet said the range of building options and clients grows much wider once you enter the urban areas, but they are still connected to the mining industry’s success.
The company is expecting a significant uptick in new home developments in Port Moresby, Lae and other towns.
“This is all part of the mining boom,” Sweet said. “It’s part of the spinoffs where you’ll have landowner groups who have benefitted from the mine looking to invest in local property.
“We’re also expecting the mines themselves to develop residential properties suitable for housing visiting executives and relocation housing for landowner groups.”
In these cases, Ngo Group is able to construct higher-end residences with quality finishings and more space and comfort.
“Our team has the skills, materials and logistical networks to ensure every build is completed to an exacting standard,” Sweet said.
Commercial building also sits comfortably within the group’s wheelhouse. A surge in economic growth will likely involve a reshaping of the business districts of Port Moresby and Lae, and Sweet is confident Ngo Group will have a role to play in those transformations.
A one-stop ecosystem of building trades
Ngo Group has deliberately structured itself as what Sweet describes as a “one-stop shop” for construction and building needs in PNG
The group comprises four complementary companies, each bringing specialised expertise to residential and commercial projects.
Digara Construction handles the primary building work, from accommodation blocks to commercial facilities; Ferrum Engineering provides the technical engineering for steel fabrication solutions that help to ensure projects meet safety and operational standards in PNG’s demanding conditions; Craftsman began as a furniture manufacturer but has evolved into a comprehensive interior solutions provider, offering carpentry, joinery and cabinetry services that transform basic structures into comfortable, functional spaces; and Niugini Glass and Aluminium is a glass and aluminium contractor of doors and windows, ACP
cladding facades, and curtain walls. They are also sole agents for G.James Australia products.
Sweet said the structure is a strategic one that helps the companies stand out in PNG’s challenging logistical environment.
“In PNG, where logistics and infrastructure can make it difficult to coordinate multiple suppliers and contractors, having everything under one roof makes a real difference,” he said.
“Mining companies and private developers can engage with us knowing that we control every aspect of the build process, from initial earthworks through to final interior fittings.”
This integrated approach reduces project complexity and timeline risks, factors that mining companies particularly value when establishing operations in remote locations.
Sweet believes Ngo Group is uniquely positioned to capitalise on PNG’s continuing economic resurgence. With increased mining activity translating into growing construction demand, the integrated structure of the group offers mining operators exactly what they need.
“We’re seeing the early stages of what could be a significant construction boom,” Sweet said.
“Our experience, local knowledge, and comprehensive service offering means we can support mining companies as they expand their operations and contribute to PNG’s economic growth story.”
The timing, he said, couldn’t be better. PNG
Following record-breaking attendance in 2025, PNG Expo is set to return next year with enhanced features designed to maximise value for mining professionals.
THE PNG mining industry’s most anticipated gathering is back, and it’s bigger than ever.
Following a record-breaking 2025 event that drew near-capacity crowds and generated enthusiasm across Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) resources sector, the PNG Industrial and Mining Resources Exhibition and Conference (PNG Expo) returns to Port Moresby from July 1–2, 2026.
The Stanley Hotel will once again transform into the beating heart of PNG’s mining community, a dynamic hub where innovation meets opportunity, where industry veterans share insights with emerging leaders, and where the future of PNG’s resources sector takes shape through meaningful connections and collaborative solutions.
This isn’t just another industry event returning to the calendar. PNG Expo 2026 represents a deliberate evolution designed to match the growing momentum across the sector. With enhanced features, expanded opportunities, and a renewed focus on delivering tangible value to every participant, the 2026 edition promises to set new benchmarks for what a regional mining exhibition can achieve.
The message is clear: the country’s mining sector is levelling up, and PNG Expo 2026 is leading the charge.
The decision to enhance PNG Expo for 2026 didn’t happen in a vacuum; it was driven by the resounding success and enthusiastic feedback from the 2025 event. Industry decision-makers, mining equipment, technology and services (METS) companies and researchers from across PNG and international resources sectors came together for two days of what the mining community was seeking: innovative case studies, knowledge sharing, and meaningful networking opportunities.
The numbers tell part of the story. PNG Expo 2025 achieved extremely strong attendance on its opening day, with delegates eagerly diving into comprehensive case studies like Metso’s groundbreaking work at the Ok Tedi mine.
The conference program resonated strongly with attendees, who gained valuable insights from learning and development professionals tackling PNG’s dynamic labour market challenges, while leaders from companies like Remote Global, Rescue Group Services, Imatech, Lincom and TriCab shared real-world stories of innovation and problem-solving from mining’s front lines in PNG.
But beyond the metrics, the quality of connections helped to set PNG Expo 2025 apart. The gala dinner saw a full ballroom of delegates
The gala dinner is always a highlight.
taking the opportunity to relax, unwind and forge lasting relationships with colleagues and industry counterparts.
The exhibition floor buzzed with activity as companies like D&T Hydraulics, Sandvik, and Crusher & Screen Sales showcased the latest product innovations and services. These interactions are a first step to tangible business outcomes and ongoing partnerships.
With such strong foundations established, PNG Expo 2026 is taking a deliberate step forward through several key enhancements designed to maximise value for exhibitors and attendees.
At the heart of these improvements is a redesigned exhibition floorplan that is designed to create even more opportunities for meaningful engagement. The expanded floorplan is designed as a reflection of how industry professionals interact at mining events.
Improved traffic flow will ensure delegates can navigate the exhibition more efficiently, while increased exposure opportunities give exhibitors better visibility and more strategic positioning options.
The new design incorporates dedicated showcase areas that encourage deeper product demonstrations and technical discussions, creating immersive experiences that reflect the complexity of modern mining operations.
The 2026 content streams will be designed to anticipate the challenges and opportunities across interactions that lead to meaningful ongoing partnerships.
Sponsors and suppliers will benefit from enhanced strategic positioning opportunities that align with the natural flow of delegate movement and interest areas. This thoughtful approach to space utilisation means every square metre works harder to facilitate connections and business development.
The conference program is receiving equally focused attention through collaboration with the editorial team at PNG Mining. This partnership will help to ensure the 2026 content streams are not only relevant but anticipate the challenges and opportunities that will define the sector’s future.
“The launch of our 2026 event marks a new phase for PNG Expo, one we’re especially proud to lead,” Prime Creative Media marketing manager – mining events Rebecca Todesco.
“From a redesigned floorplan to stronger content streams and bigger networking opportunities, everything we’re doing is designed to add value for both exhibitors and attendees.”
The conference program remains at the heart of PNG Expo’s value proposition.
Building on the successful case study format of 2025, delegates can expect deep-dive presentations from industry leaders with direct experience navigating some of the complex challenges that come with PNG’s unique mining environment. These sessions will move beyond theoretical discussions to explore real-world applications, providing attendees with actionable insights they can immediately apply
The program will also tackle the pressing issues that face mining professionals. Fuel and renewable energy solutions will feature prominently, addressing cost pressures and sustainability mandates that are reshaping operational strategies. Community relations and the significance of community development agreements will also receive focused attention.
In the same way, workplace safety remains a sector priority, and the conference will explore
innovative approaches to building and maintaining safer workspaces in challenging environments.
“The aim is to bring together individuals with shared interests or expertise to share their knowledge about the industry and potentially collaborate on specific topics or projects,” Todesco said.
“We’re building a conference program that will help our delegates stay informed and aware of industry advancements.”
As the calendar turns toward the second half of 2025, PNG’s mining sector is experiencing a period of renewed optimism and significant activity. That ideally positions the July 2026 event to capture and amplify this momentum.
Current market conditions are creating compelling opportunities across multiple commodities, with global demand for critical minerals driving fresh interest in PNG’s diverse resource base.
The country’s established mining operations are implementing efficiency improvements and expansion projects, while exploration activities are uncovering promising new prospects that could well define the next decade of development.
The growing sophistication of PNG’s mining ecosystem is particularly evident in the strengthening connections between the PNG and Australian mining sectors. Cross-border partnerships are becoming more strategic and comprehensive, moving beyond traditional supplier relationships to
An expanded exhibition floorplan will allow more interaction.
encompass technology transfer, skills development, and joint venture arrangements that leverage the complementary strengths of both markets.
This evolution is supported by improving infrastructure and regulatory frameworks that are making PNG an increasingly attractive destination for mining investment and innovation. The recent focus on local content requirements and community engagement is driving demand for solutions that can operate effectively within PNG’s unique social and environmental context.
From a redesigned floorplan to stronger content streams and bigger networking opportunities, everything we’re doing is designed to add value for both exhibitors and attendees.
Rebecce Todesco
PNG Expo 2026 arrives at the right moment to serve as a catalyst for these developments. With anticipation building toward the July event, companies across the sector are already identifying strategic initiatives and partnerships they want to advance through the networking and knowledge-sharing opportunities the expo provides.
More than just an industry gathering, PNG Expo 2026 represents a strategic investment in the country’s mining future. PNG
PNG Expo 2026 will be held at the Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby from July 1–2, 2026.
For more information, visit pngexpo.com/get-involved
A significant investment from established gold producer St Barbara and recent high-grade discoveries are transforming Geopacific’s Woodlark into a must-develop asset.
THE PAPUA New Guinea (PNG) mining landscape is witnessing a convergence of strategic investment and exploration success. Geopacific Resources’ Woodlark gold project provides the clearest example, with its development now backed by some serious industry support.
That support received a significant boost in August when established PNG gold producer St Barbara took a 14.4 per cent strategic stake in the company, acquiring 458.6 million shares through a complex transaction with Patronus Resources. The deal saw St Barbara return 158.1 million Patronus shares as consideration, while Patronus retained approximately
41 million Geopacific shares. This share swap consolidated ownership among mining-focused entities with PNG experience.
The move also brought together two key players in PNG’s gold sector. St Barbara, which aims to operate the Simberi gold mine in New Ireland province until 2038 (an extension of its mining lease is currently under consideration), now also holds significant exposure to what promises to be one of the country’s next major gold operations.
The strategic alignment runs deeper than financial investment. St Barbara’s proven operating experience in PNG through Simberi provides Geopacific with
valuable local knowledge and technical expertise as it advances the 1.67-million-ounce Woodlark project in Milne Bay province. Beyond capital, St Barbara brings established relationships with suppliers, contractors and government agencies that create immediate operational value.
For Geopacific chief executive officer (CEO) James Fox, the partnership delivers “a strategically aligned shareholder base” with deep regional operational understanding.
The strategic backing has been complemented by strong government support, demonstrated in September when PNG Minister for Mining Rainbo Paita granted a crucial extension to the Woodlark Mining Lease’s key construction condition. The extension moves the requirement to complete construction and commissioning to October 2027, providing Geopacific with the flexibility needed to optimise development planning, financing and execution.
The regulatory backing reflects active government confidence in Woodlark’s viability. The decision to extend the lease aligns with PNG’s broader mining development objectives and the government’s commitment to supporting responsible resource extraction.
Fox said the extension provides the flexibility and certainty needed to align its feasibility studies with its construction and exploration timelines.
“[This represents] a strong endorsement of Woodlark’s potential and the PNG Government’s support for responsible mine development,” he said.
But perhaps the most compelling element of Woodlark’s story lies in its exploration success, with recent drilling results delivering the kind of high-grade intersections that transform projects from promising prospects into mustdevelop assets.
The standout discovery came at Kamwak, a new exploration target adjacent to the main Kulumadau deposit, where drilling intersected 7m grading 2.48 grams per tonne (g/t) gold from just 21m depth.
The Kamwak discovery represents more than just another intercept; it demonstrates the significant growth potential that remains within the Woodlark project area. Located on a structural corridor where geological mapping identified favourable alteration patterns, Kamwak exhibits similar characteristics to the main Kulumadau mineral resource and lies along the same structural trend. This positioning suggests the potential for a substantial new zone of gold mineralisation that could meaningfully expand
the project’s already impressive 1.67-million-ounce resource base.
This exploration intensity comes at a critical time in the project’s development trajectory. With a definitive feasibility study scheduled for delivery during the fourth quarter of 2025, the ongoing drilling results will directly inform mine planning and resource definition. The timing alignment between exploration success, government support, and strategic investment creates a compelling development narrative.
For St Barbara, the investment provides strategic exposure to a high-quality development project in a jurisdiction where the company already successfully operates.
For St Barbara, the investment provides strategic exposure to a high-quality development project in a jurisdiction where the company already successfully operates.
For Geopacific, it delivers capital and operational expertise from a proven PNG gold producer.
For PNG itself, it represents continued confidence in the country’s mining potential and regulatory framework.
St Barbara’s share market play has seen it take on a 14.4 per cent stake in Geopacific Resources.
The convergence of strategic investment, government support and exploration success positions Woodlark as one of PNG’s most compelling gold development stories. With drilling continuing to expand the resource base and development studies advancing toward completion, Geopacific appears in a strong positioned to advance this significant project toward production, potentially establishing Woodlark as PNG’s next major gold operation. PNG
Recent partnerships underline Ok Tedi’s commitment to capacity building across multiple education levels.
IN THE remote Western Province of Papua New Guinea (PNG), where the Ok Tedi mine has operated for nearly four decades, a quiet revolution in workforce development is taking place.
Recent initiatives by Ok Tedi reveal a mining company that has evolved beyond resource extraction, positioning itself as a cornerstone institution for building PNG’s technical and professional workforce.
The company’s commitment to local capacity building reached new milestones with two significant announcements in August, demonstrating the depth of Ok Tedi’s training philosophy. The initiatives illustrate how a major mining operation can serve as an economic engine and an educational catalyst.
The flagship example of Ok Tedi’s workforce development strategy is its graduate development scheme (GDS), which in August welcomed its largest cohort yet – 41 new graduates representing a diverse array of academic disciplines. The program, now in its 37th year, has become something of a proving ground for PNG’s emerging professionals.
We are proud of the graduate training program that we offer. The more graduates we recruit, [the more] we train, and [the more leaders] we supply to the nation.”
Ok Tedi CEO Kedi Ilimbit
What makes the 2025 intake particularly noteworthy is its expanded institutional reach. While previous cohorts drew primarily from established universities like the Papua New Guinea University of Technology, University of Papua New Guinea, and Divine Word University, this year marked the first inclusion of graduates from Don Bosco Technical Institution. This expansion signals Ok Tedi’s recognition that technical excellence can emerge from a range of educational pathways.
The academic diversity within the cohort is equally striking. Beyond traditional mining-related disciplines like geology, mining engineering and mineral processing, the 2025 graduates bring expertise in psychology, human resource management, environmental science and information technology. This multidisciplinary approach reflects the complexity of the modern mining industry, where successful operations require expertise far beyond the extraction process itself.
Perhaps most compelling is the program’s track record of producing leaders from within. Managing director and chief executive officer (CEO) Kedi Ilimbit, who joined Ok Tedi as a graduate mechanical engineer in 1995, exemplifies the GDS program’s potential. His rise from trainee to CEO demonstrates that the program isn’t merely about filling entry-level positions but cultivating the next generation of industry leaders.
“We are proud of the graduate training program that we offer,” Ilimbit told the new cohort. “The more graduates we recruit, [the more] we train, and [the more leaders] we supply to the nation.”
Ilimbit’s words underscore a philosophy that positions Ok Tedi as a national institution with responsibilities that transcend profit margins.
While the GDS program addresses the upper tier of workforce development, Ok Tedi’s recent partnership with Morehead Vocational Centre tackles the equally critical vocational education sector. A memorandum of agreement signed in August creates hands-on training opportunities for up to 229 students, addressing what the school’s manager Ken Ware Potang described as a long-standing challenge in securing practical placements.
This collaboration represents Ok Tedi’s second major vocational partnership following its existing relationship with Kiunga Vocational School. The expansion suggests a systematic approach to technical skills development across Western Province, creating multiple pathways for young PNG locals to gain industry-relevant experience.
Ok Tedi manager of training Ian Strachan said these partnerships reflect a commitment that extends beyond immediate corporate needs.
“Ok Tedi is committed to building PNG’s workforce,” he said, acknowledging that many students will ultimately pursue careers outside the company.
This long-term perspective on national capacity building distinguishes Ok Tedi’s approach from more traditional training relationships.
The significance of Ok Tedi’s training initiatives is not just for the benefit of Western Province, where it runs the bulk of its operations. Since 1988, the GDS program has trained 772 graduates, many of whom have found employment with business partners, other resource operations domestically and internationally, and across various sectors of PNG’s national economy. This multiplier effect illustrates how strategic workforce development by major
Ok Tedi’s training programs helps to develop capabilities
employers can address national skills shortages. In a country where technical education infrastructure remains limited, Ok Tedi’s training programs serve as a de facto national resource, developing capabilities that benefit the entire economy.
The company’s training portfolio – encompassing graduate development, apprenticeships, industrial training, and preferred area development programs – creates pathways for staff and potential employees from a range of backgrounds and educational levels. This comprehensive approach acknowledges that workforce development cannot rely solely on university graduates; it must also create opportunities for technical and vocational learners. PNG
After more than a decade of development, the Central Lime Project promises to transform PNG into a regional supplier of building materials.
WHEN PAPUA New Guinea (PNG) Prime Minister James Marape stood alongside Pacific Lime and Cement managing director Paul Mulder in Kido Village in August, he could barely hide his enthusiasm.
“This project is a game-changer for Papua New Guinea,” Marape declared as he formally announced the Central Lime project’s final investment decision.
The excitement across the audience that day, as well as the PNG Government and a long list of stakeholders, was well-founded. After more than a decade of development, the Central Lime project ticks several boxes in line with PNG’s national goals.
Located in Central Province, the project marks the country’s first new greenfield mine to commence construction in 18 years, breaking a drought
that has seen its mining sector dominated by legacy operations. Perhaps more significantly, it will establish PNG’s inaugural downstream manufacturing facility for quicklime and cement production, positioning the Pacific nation as a potential regional supplier rather than an exporter of raw materials.
The transformation from concept to reality has been little short of remarkable.
The project has evolved into Pacific Lime and Cement’s (formerly Mayur Resources) cornerstone project, a venture that PNG’s former Mining Minister Ano Pala described as a “transformative development” with the capacity to employ over 1000 people, while replacing costly imported building materials with locally produced alternatives.
The project will establish PNG’s inaugural downstream manufacturing facility for quicklime.
The Central Lime Project centres on a substantial 382-million-tonne limestone resource, strategically positioned within a dedicated Special Economic Zone (SEZ) that offers comprehensive infrastructure and fiscal incentives. Such a massive resource base provides decades of mining potential, underpinning the project’s long-term viability and expansion ambitions.
The operation will initially feature two high-efficiency quicklime kilns, each capable of processing 600 tonnes per day, giving the project a combined annual production capacity of 400,000 tonnes of quicklime and hydrated lime. Beyond the core lime production, the facility will also generate 600,000 tonnes of limestone aggregate per year, creating multiple revenue streams from the single resource base.
The project’s industrial footprint extends beyond quarrying operations.
Pacific Lime and Cement has developed an integrated supply chain that includes quicklime kilns, an export wharf, on-site power generation, water desalination facilities and comprehensive processing infrastructure, all contained within the SEZ. This kind of self-contained approach helps to reduce operational dependencies while maximising the value-add potential of the limestone resource.
Mulder said the project has a range of knock-on benefits for PNG’s national economic development, including for its energy transition ambitions.
“Lime demand continues to rapidly expand as a key input in the global energy transition,” he said.
The focus on producing low-carbon quicklime and hydrated lime also positions the project to serve growing markets for sustainable building materials.
And this is just the beginning. The operation’s strategic design allows for significant expansion potential, with plans for scaling up to a five-kiln configuration that would substantially increase production capacity to meet regional demand.
PNG will become a pivotal contributor to the regional and global lime industry
Pacific Lime and Cement managing director Paul Mulder
The Central Lime Project’s economic significance extends beyond its limestone quarrying operations. Marape highlighted the project’s transformational potential during the August final investment decision ceremony, saying it would “provide a substantial boost to our economy and demonstrate our commitment to industrial development”.
The employment impact positions the project as a key economic driver for Central Province and PNG more broadly. With more than 1000 direct and indirect expected jobs, the project will inject
significant economic activity into a region that has seen limited large-scale development.
Beyond job creation, the project addresses import dependency for essential building materials, a critical economic challenge facing PNG.
The facility will replace costly imported quicklime and cement with locally manufactured alternatives, reducing the country’s trade deficit while keeping construction material spending within the domestic economy. This import substitution effect creates a multiplier benefit, as funds previously flowing overseas will instead circulate through PNG’s economy.
The project’s revenue potential is equally significant. Marape said the operation will “contribute significantly to government revenues through taxes and royalties”, providing a new income stream for national and provincial governments.
The community development agreement finalised earlier this year is designed to ensure direct financial benefits also flow to local landowner groups.
The strategic positioning within the SEZ amplifies economic benefits by creating a framework for development, potentially attracting complementary industries and further investment to the region.
The Central Lime Project’s journey from concept to construction represents more than a decade of
The project helps to address PNG’s import dependency for essential building materials.
The project is set to deliver significant economic impact to PNG.
persistence, strategic planning and stakeholder engagement. What began as an ambitious vision under Mayur Resources has evolved through multiple phases to reach its current construction status under the Pacific Lime and Cement banner.
A pivotal moment came when wharf construction got underway in 2023, marking the project’s transition from planning to active development.
This infrastructure development served dual purposes – enabling early barging operations for material transport while laying the groundwork for the broader industrial complex.
Pacific Lime and Cement prioritised this construction phase specifically to create early cash flow opportunities through initial limestone sales.
Then, in February this year, the project gained significant financial momentum. Pacific Lime and Cement raised approximately $97 million in a twotranche institutional placement, which was underwritten to $53.1 million.
This has helped to ensure the company is fully funded for the entire development of Stage 1 and Stage 2 of the Central Lime Project Community engagement reached a crucial milestone with the finalisation of the community development agreement earlier this year.
These comprehensive stakeholder consultations, involving landowners, various levels of PNG government and community representatives resulted in unanimous agreement on terms.
The company’s strategic evolution was formalised through its rebranding from Mayur Resources to Pacific Lime and Cement, a move completed just prior to the final investment decision ceremony in August. This rebrand, reflecting the transformation from resource developer to integrated industrial materials supplier, coincided with renewed government support, including reaffirmation of the SEZ status with its package of fiscal incentives.
The final investment decision ceremony in Kido Village represented the culmination of this development journey, with Marape’s presence underlining the project’s national significance and clearing the path for full-scale construction to commence.
The Central Lime Project’s infrastructure development has progressed through multiple phases, with the strategic wharf construction serving as the foundation for broader site development. The facility has completed its second phase, achieving a critical milestone by enabling rollon roll-off vessel access for bulk commodity cargo transfer to and from the site.
The wharf’s third construction phase, which is already underway, is designed to accommodate Handymax class ocean-going vessels, a
significant upgrade that will take approximately nine months to complete. This enhanced capacity will enable the project to efficiently export products to regional markets while receiving larger shipments of construction materials and equipment.
Beyond marine infrastructure, the project has commenced bulk earthworks ahead of schedule, including initial development of a 27.6km mine access road that will connect the operation to existing transport networks. Geotechnical investigations for major bridge abutments are also underway, helping to ensure the road infrastructure can handle the heavy vehicle traffic associated with a large-scale mining operation.
The operation will initially feature two high-efficiency quicklime kilns, each capable of processing 600 tonnes per day.
Community integration remains a priority, with Central Lime Project completing earthworks for a new sports field in Kido, demonstrating commitment to local development alongside industrial construction. Equipment mobilisation is also well advanced, with key infrastructure items including fuel storage tanks, a modular water desalination plant, and materials for fencing, camp facilities and maintenance upgrades already en route to the site.
Construction equipment scheduled for third-quarter arrival includes excavators, tipper trucks, service trucks, light towers and power generators.
Pacific Lime and Cement has also established a substantial corporate presence in Port Moresby, with a newly completed office designed to accommodate approximately 50 personnel as project activities intensify.
The Central Lime Project’s initial two-kiln configuration is the first target for expansion when resources and progress allow.
Pacific Lime and Cement has designed the operation with scalability in mind, with its plans to increase capacity to a five-kiln configuration set to substantially boost production to meet growing regional demand for lime products.
This potential is underpinned by the size of the limestone resource, providing decades of mining inventory to support sustained growth. The integrated infrastructure within the SEZ – including
power generation, water desalination and the upgraded wharf facilities – creates a platform capable of supporting significantly larger operations without requiring proportional infrastructure investment.
Mulder envisions the project positioning PNG as a regional hub for lime and cement production, serving markets across the Asia-Pacific region.
“PNG will become a pivotal contributor to the regional and global lime industry,” he said.
The SEZ framework also creates opportunities for attracting complementary industries and downstream processing operations, potentially developing an industrial cluster around the core lime production facility. This could transform the site from a single-operation mine into a broader complex. With early limestone sales targeted for 2026 and full production ramping up shortly thereafter, the Central Lime Project stands ready to deliver on its promise as PNG’s industrial game-changer, creating jobs, reducing imports and positioning the nation as an important new regional supplier of essential building materials. PNG
Project name: Central Lime
Location: Central Province
limestone resource.
Operation status: Under construction Products: Quicklime, hydrated lime, limestone aggregate Resource available: 382
A recent journey to PNG has left Australian METS providers confident of playing a role in the growing market.
WHILE NATIONAL content remains fundamentally important, almost every stakeholder in Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) growing mining industry would likely agree that foreign investment and expertise also play a vital part.
Overseas-based mining equipment, technology and services (METS) providers bring a wealth of experience, professionalism and broad know-how to projects throughout the country, offering solutions that complement local capabilities and drive innovation across operations.
So when Austmine, one of Australia’s leading industry associations for mining equipment and services, makes a pilgrimage to PNG, there is a warm welcome from the local industry.
The timing of the group’s latest mission, conducted in late July and early August, couldn’t have been better. With gold prices soaring and a massive pipeline of development projects on the horizon, PNG’s mining sector is experiencing nearunprecedented momentum.
For local operators, the arrival of Australian METS specialists represented more than just business development. It was an important validation of PNG’s
growing status as a world-class mining destination, and an opportunity to forge partnerships that will drive the next phase of industry growth.
Austmine’s delegation, conducted in partnership with Austrade, brought together a carefully selected group of Australian METS companies representing diverse capabilities across the mining value chain.
The delegation included MASPRO, Xylem Water Solutions, MTG Corporation, Bend-Tech, White Dog International and Schlam, each bringing specialised expertise to address the unique challenges and opportunities present in PNG’s mining landscape.
Over five intensive days from July 28 to August 1, each member of the delegation immersed themselves in PNG’s mining ecosystem.
The itinerary was strategically designed to provide comprehensive exposure to operational realities and strategic opportunities. A highlight was the site visit and meeting at Monier Industries’ Nebiri Quarry, offering hands-on insights into local mining operations and infrastructure requirements.
The delegation also secured valuable face time with PNG’s major mining operators, presenting their
Australia and PNG share a strong relationship and a long history.
capabilities directly to decision-makers at Ok Tedi, Newmont Lihir, K92 Mining, Harmony Gold’s Hidden Valley operation, and St Barbara’s Simberi project.
These presentations provided crucial twoway dialogue, allowing Australian suppliers to understand specific operational needs while demonstrating how their technologies and services could add value to PNG operations.
The mission culminated with participation in the Chamber of Resources and Energy’s PNG Resources Summit and gala dinner, providing networking opportunities and deeper industry insights that would inform their strategic recommendations.
Following this intensive engagement with PNG’s mining sector, Austmine compiled five strategic takeaways that it believes will help guide Australian METS companies seeking to capitalise on opportunities in the PNG market. These insights reflect the immediate opportunities and long-term potential that the delegation identified across PNG’s diverse mining landscape.
For PNG’s mining operators, Austmine’s first key takeaway – that gold is driving unprecedented economic growth – represents validation and opportunity. The 40 per cent year-on-year rise in gold prices hasn’t just boosted export revenues; it has fundamentally transformed the investment landscape for local operations.
This golden opportunity is translating into tangible benefits across PNG’s mining sector. Major producers are no longer just maintaining operations, but expanding at pace.
K92’s ambitious strategy at Kainantu, including commissioning a new processing plant to increase capacity to 1.2 million tonnes per annum, demonstrates the confidence that high gold prices have instilled in operators. Similarly, Harmony Gold’s application to extend Hidden Valley’s mine lease by a decade to 2040, and St Barbara’s 13-year expansion plan for its Simberi operations, signal long-term commitment backed by strong market fundamentals.
For local mining companies, the Australian delegation’s focus on gold specialisation represents a strategic alignment that has some powerful timing.
When Australian METS providers recognise PNG as the next essential destination for gold industry specialists, it helps to validate what local operators already know – that PNG offers world-class gold resources with the infrastructure and expertise to deliver sustainable, profitable operations.
This recognition also means access to cutting-edge technologies and services specifically designed for gold operations, potentially accelerating productivity improvements and operational excellence across the sector.
The second takeaway – PNG’s prospective $US50 billion ($75 billion) investment pipeline – represents a potentially transformative moment for local mining operations and the broader economy.
According to ANZ Bank’s assessment, this resource-led investment boom spans mining, energy, renewables and infrastructure, creating an ecosystem where mining operations have the opportunity to thrive.
For PNG’s mining sector, the headline Papua LNG project – valued at $15 billion and involving ExxonMobil, Total Energies and Santos – could nearly double gas exports while potentially growing the economy by up to 25 per cent. This extends beyond energy; it’s about creating the industrial backbone from which mining operations will also benefit.
Enhanced energy security, improved logistics infrastructure, and increased skilled workforce development are all among the potential benefits.
The revival of the Wafi-Golpu project as a strategic priority, representing a joint venture between Newmont and Harmony Gold, demonstrates how major international players view PNG’s long-term potential. Despite regulatory and environmental hurdles that have delayed progress for close to a decade since the initial feasibility study, the project’s bulk underground mining techniques and high-value copper-gold reserves continue to attract serious
The third takeaway acknowledges a reality that PNG mining operators know all too well: doing business in the Pacific nation involves navigating significant structural challenges. But conditions are measurably improving.
The Australian delegation’s recognition of the obstacles and the progress reflects a mature understanding of PNG’s business environment.
Local operators have long contended with logistics challenges stemming from limited road infrastructure, harsh terrain, and inconsistent utilities and telecommunications. These realities demand creative solutions and robust contingency planning that have, in many cases, made PNG operations more resilient and innovative than their counterparts elsewhere. The regulatory complexities and foreign currency supply shortages have similarly required local operations to develop sophisticated financial and compliance strategies.
However, the International Monetary Fund’s $US918
For local mining companies, the Australian delegation’s recognition of these improvements, while acknowledging ongoing challenges, suggests international METS providers are prepared≈to work within PNG’s unique business environment rather than expecting it to conform to external standards.
This kind of pragmatic approach from potential suppliers creates opportunities for partnerships built on realistic expectations and mutual understanding of local operating conditions.
The fourth takeaway – the need for comprehensive logistics and training support – highlights an area in which PNG mining operations have developed distinctive capabilities that international suppliers can understand and respect.
The delegation’s recognition that mining logistics in PNG are shaped by factors such as extreme remoteness, rugged terrain, limited public infrastructure, weather and landslip risk, local landowner dynamics, and security considerations reflects a deeper appreciation for operational realities.
For PNG mining operators, such a level of understanding from potential suppliers represents opportunity rather than limitation.
Local companies have developed sophisticated relationships with landowner groups, freight service providers, and security contractors that enable operations in challenging environments. When international METS providers recognise the need to work through these established networks rather than around them, it creates opportunities for genuine partnerships that leverage local expertise.
The emphasis on workforce training and aftermarket support also validates approaches that PNG operators have long advocated. Local mining companies understand that successful technology adoption requires comprehensive skills development and ongoing support that goes beyond basic equipment installation.
When Australian suppliers acknowledge the need for additional training on equipment operations and maintenance, and engagement from subject matter experts to upskill the local workforce, they’re recognising the importance of capacity building that creates lasting value for PNG operations.
This approach goes some way in transforming what might be seen as additional costs into investments in sustainable operational excellence and local capability development.
The final takeaway looks at the critical importance of maintaining visibility and building relationships in PNG. This underscores one of the local sector’s greatest competitive advantages.
For PNG mining companies, this emphasis on relationship-building from international suppliers represents a significant opportunity to leverage existing networks and cultural understanding. PNG operations that have invested years in developing trust with communities, contractors and government agencies possess invaluable social capital that international suppliers need in order to access PNG markets successfully.
The Austmine delegation’s identification of key events, including the PNG Industrial and Mining Resources Exhibition and Conference (PNG Expo), creates structured opportunities for PNG operators to engage with potential international partners on their terms.
These forums allow local companies to showcase their capabilities while evaluating international suppliers’ commitment to the local market.
Moreover, when international METS companies invest in PNG visibility and relationships, it helps to signal long-term commitment rather than opportunistic market entry. For PNG mining operators, this distinction is crucial.
Suppliers who understand that success requires sustained engagement and relationship investment are more likely to provide the reliable, ongoing support that remote mining operations require.
Austmine’s commitment to return with another delegation in 2026 exemplifies this sustained engagement approach that PNG operators value most.
PNG
QME 2026 is set to serve as a showcase of the world-class capabilities of the Bowen Basin and beyond.
WHEN THE Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition (QME) returns in 2026, it will bring with it unmatched innovation, networking and showcase opportunities.
The event, to be held at the Mackay Showgrounds from July 21–23, offers a free-toattend leadership series that addresses the current needs of the industry and helps to provide direct benefit to many mining functions, showcasing industry-specific opportunities and answering questions to real-world issues.
The popular Mining Pavilion will also make its return in 2026 to act as a central hub for the local industry, bringing together key companies and major contractors to showcase their latest projects, initiatives and innovations, providing attendees with a behind-the-scenes look at what’s next for mining practice, machinery and technology.
More than just a display space, the Mining Pavilion offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with the organisations driving the future in mining across the region. Attendees can explore current and upcoming developments and gain valuable insights
into procurement and partnership opportunities, and build meaningful connections in Queensland’s thriving mining community.
Having been running for more than three decades, QME has long cemented itself as the most significant event on Queensland’s regional mining calendar.
With environmental compliance top of mind for many local and international operators, the highly successful Decarbonisation Showcase returns in 2026, offering not only insights into strategies
QME 2026 is set to exceed the record-breaking 2024 iteration.
The show will feature lots of hands-on
for complying with environmental, social and governance (ESG) regulations but also examining the issues that truly matter to the industry.
Located in the heart of Queensland’s mining industry, QME is the ultimate showcase of supplier innovation and excellence and will illustrate the region’s capabilities through exhibitions, industry insight and networking opportunities, allowing attendees to engage with key industry decisionmakers and purchase influencers.
With the backing of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) as an official association partner, the three-day event is set to be bigger than ever before; it is to expected attract in excess of 5000 people and feature more than 300 suppliers.
“QME is now a major event on the Queensland resources calendar and, as the industry’s peak body, QRC is proud to be involved as the official association partner,” QRC chief executive officer Janette Hewson said in a statement.
“The exhibition also takes the resources sector to the wider public and shares the innovation and world-best practices that are homegrown in Queensland resources sector.
“I am looking forward to QRC playing a part in QME 2026, showcasing what’s best about our sector and the opportunities we have to secure a strong future for the industry as global demand continues for all of our commodities,” she said.
Following a highly successful rebooking phase, QME 2026 is shaping up to the one of the biggest in the event’s history, with many major suppliers confirmed to return, including ATOM, Brooks/XCMG, Busch, ANZ, EATON, Endress & Hauser, Flexco,
Networking opportunities are always a highlight.
Hidrive, Hitachi, Hoses24, MATO Australia, Radical Torque Solutions, Sime Darby Group, Regal Rexnord, Motion, and WEG Industries.
QME 2026 will once again feature hundreds of exhibitors, live demonstrations, and a comprehensive conference program tackling key sector topics, including workforce development, safety innovation, and productivity.
Now firmly under the Prime Creative Media banner, QME 2026 is already shaping up as the go-to destination for industry-leading mining insight.
“It’s where the entire sector – from operators to innovators – comes together to connect, collaborate and showcase what’s next,” Prime Creative Media marketing manager for mining events Rebecca Todesco said.
“There’s a certain energy when the industry gathers in one place for QME that comes from shared challenges, bold ideas and a collective drive to lead the way forward.” PNG
Attendees will get an up-close look at what’s next for mining.
QME 2026 will be held at the Mackay Showgrounds from July 21-23, 2026. For more information or to get involved, visit qmeexpo.com.au/getinvolved
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 in May.
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 sectors.
• 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 earlier this year.
PNG Expo has already gained a reputation within the industry 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
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 key 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 industry exposure.
• queenslandminingexpo.com.au
BULK 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. As one of Australia’s key exhibitions for the
bulk materials handling sector, the event will welcome key 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/site/content/eventsconferences/national-conference.aspx
