Australian gold miner reports failure at tailings pipeline in PNG

 AUSTRALIAN gold miner St Barbara has reported a failure at its deep sea tailings placement (DSTP) pipeline at its Simberi operations in New Ireland, Papua New Guinea.

The failure at an approximate water depth of 54 metres was reported after an inspection by a remotely operated vehicle.


The cause of the failure was yet to be determined, the company said.

Simberi operations ceased placement of tailings through the DSTP pipeline.

The Conservation and Environmental Protection Authority was notified of the pipeline failure and an investigation was launched.

The miner said no environmental harm had been reported, nor had pluming of tailings been observed.

It added that sampling and monitoring activities were ongoing.

An investigation team has been established to ascertain the cause of the failure and expedite options for repair and/or replacement.

St Barbara said its Simberi operation was on track to achieve forecasted financial year 2021 guidance of between 80,000 and 90,000 ounces of gold.

However, in light of the uncertain timeframe for Mineral Resources Authority approval to restart mining, together with the DSTP pipeline failure, St Barbara has withdrawn this year’s financial guidance for Simberi.


The National / Pacific Mining Watch

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