Robert Smillie has joined K92 as its new vice president (VP) – exploration, with interim VP Andrew Kohler set to resume his role as chief geologist.
Smillie joins the K92 team with over 35 years experience in the industry under his belt, specialising in epithermal gold and copper-gold systems.
As the previous leader of exploration at Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML), Simillie and his team made a major discovery at the Townsville project, representing OTML’s most significant near-mine copper-gold discovery in over 30 years.
K92 chief executive officer and director John Lewins said the team were delighted to welcome Smillie into the fold.
“Robert’s deep understanding of PNG’s geological environment, plus his significant and diverse exploration experience including leading large exploration programs and teams, combined with Kainantu’s highly-prospective, world-class geological environment, well positions K92 to advance our exploration strategy,” Lewins said.
“We are extremely delighted to have Robert join the team. We congratulate Robert on his appointment as vice president – exploration and we look forward to his future contributions as we pursue the exciting opportunities ahead.”
Smillie brings extensive experience in both greenfield and brownfield exploration, as well as mine geology, at both junior and mid-tier mining companies, including OceanaGold, WMC Resources, and Calibre Mining, plus New Zealand’s Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences Limited.
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