A two-day stakeholder engagement was held in Kavieng to provide updates on Sulphide Expansion Project and discuss early-stage planning for future closure and asset transition for Simberi Gold Company Limited (SGCL). The session brought together key stakeholders from the New Ireland Provincial Administration, Sentral Niu Ailan Local Level Government (LLG), and Simberi landowner directors. On Day 1, SGCL presented the Simberi Mine Expansion update, outlining the transition from the current Oxide phase to Sulphide operations, expected to commence in 2027. While SGCL has an existing Oxide Closure Plan, the company stated that the intention is for the Oxide Closure Plan to be superseded by a Sulphide Closure Plan, and then coming into effect upon transition. Day 2 focused on introducing the conversation around the transfer of key assets and infrastructure, and how these assets can be repurposed to support sustainable income-generating opportunities for the community post closure. SGCL began exploratory discussions with stakeholders to identify infrastructure that could potentially be handed over to local entities as part of a future mine closure process, currently scheduled for 2038 once the Simberi Mine Expansion is approved. SGCL’s Executive General Manager, Randy McMahon emphasised that although closure is not imminent, early and inclusive planning is essential. “This is not just about the end of mining—it’s about the beginning of long-term planning that ensures our communities and government is consulted, equipped, informed, and prepared.” “This sets the foundation for future engagements as the company establishes the Mine Closure Planning Committee to initiate plannings and discussions towards this cause.”