Engagement with the local communities in the areas in which we operate is important to the overall success of St Barbara.  Consultation with key stakeholders on the Company’s activities has expanded in line with growing mining activities at Southern Cross and Leonora. 

At Leonora, the Company continued to support the Leonora district by sponsoring the Leonora Foundation Day and providing funding for the development of a purpose built learning centre at the local kindergarten.   

St Barbara has been a sponsor of the Songroom initiative at the Leonora District School, to stimulate creativity, enhance learning and self-esteem, thereby encouraging greater participation in the school and community. 

Since starting at production at Simberi in Papua New Guinea, the mine has made significant contributions to the people of Simberi and to PNG.  In addition to employing over 700 local people, and creating business opportunities for local businesses and suppliers, the company also has paid more than K8 million in royalties since the start of production.  This has allowed funding of medical facilities, improved education, transport and communication infrastructure and community services. 

At Gold Ridge in the Solomon Islands, the company has invested extensively in community initiatives including improved housing, education and health initiatives.  Work on meeting social and environmental goals is monitored by an independent external group.