St Barbara Surpasses Targets with Simberi Crusher Commissioning, Adds PNG Mining Veteran
St Barbara Limited has successfully commissioned the MMD Sizer crusher at its Simberi operation, exceeding performance expectations and boosting SAG mill throughput. The company also appointed Phil Stephenson, a seasoned PNG mining executive, as Operations Advisor to steer operational improvements and strategic decisions.
- MMD Sizer crusher installed and commissioned ahead of schedule and under budget
- Crusher performance exceeded targets with finer product size than planned
- SAG mill throughput improved post-January shutdown
- Two excavators delivered, one operational
- Phil Stephenson appointed as Consultant Operations Advisor with PNG expertise
Simberi Crusher Installation Exceeds Expectations
St Barbara Limited (ASX: SBM) has marked a significant operational milestone at its Simberi gold mine with the successful commissioning of the MMD Sizer crusher. Arriving on site in early February 2024, the crusher was installed and commissioned safely, ahead of schedule, and notably under budget. This achievement reflects the company’s focused execution of its Pre-Expansion Growth Capital program.
The crusher’s performance surpassed all commissioning targets, delivering a product size of P100 passing 150mm, finer than the originally targeted P80 passing 150mm. This finer feed is expected to enhance the efficiency of the downstream SAG mill, a critical component in ore processing.
Operational Improvements and Equipment Upgrades
Following a planned shutdown in January, the SAG mill’s throughput per hour has increased beyond target levels, aided by a reset of operating parameters and adjustments to the liner and lifter setup. Together with the new crusher, these improvements are poised to drive operational gains in the second half of fiscal year 2025.
Complementing the crusher installation, two new excavators have arrived at Simberi, with one already operational and the other undergoing final assembly and handover. These additions are expected to support increased mining productivity and operational flexibility.
Strategic Appointment to Bolster Operational Excellence
In a move to strengthen operational leadership, St Barbara has appointed Phil Stephenson as Consultant Operations Advisor. Reporting directly to CEO Andrew Strelein, Stephenson brings extensive international mining experience, particularly in Papua New Guinea, having held senior roles at Newcrest Mining, Newmont, Barrick Gold, and Placer Dome.
Stephenson’s expertise, especially his recent tenure as COO at Newcrest’s Lihir Gold Mine, positions him well to guide Simberi’s operational performance and support the company’s strategic decisions, including the forthcoming Sulphides Expansion feasibility study.
CEO Andrew Strelein highlighted the importance of the MMD Sizer crusher in delivering a consistent ore feed and improving throughput, while expressing enthusiasm about Stephenson’s appointment to navigate the next phase of Simberi’s development.
Looking Ahead
With the commissioning of the crusher and the arrival of new operational leadership, St Barbara is setting the stage for enhanced productivity and strategic growth at Simberi. The integration of these assets and expertise will be critical as the company advances toward its expansion objectives.
Bottom Line?
St Barbara’s operational upgrades and strategic hire signal a confident push toward unlocking Simberi’s full potential.
Questions in the middle?
- How will the finer crusher product size impact overall gold recovery rates?
- What specific operational targets will Phil Stephenson prioritize in his advisory role?
- How will the Sulphides Expansion feasibility study influence capital allocation and timelines?
