Stellar Resources Ltd (ASX:SRZ) has recently bolstered its leadership team with the appointments of Mark Connelly as non-executive chairman and Andrew Doe as a key member of the management team. This strategic move is aimed at advancing the Heemskirk Tin Project in Tasmania through the prefeasibility stage and beyond.
Strengthening the Leadership Team
Mark Connelly brings over three decades of experience in the natural resources sector to Stellar Resources. His extensive background includes significant roles in senior management positions within ASX-listed companies. Connelly’s previous role as non-executive chairman of Oklo Resources saw him work with several current Stellar directors. Notably, Oklo Resources was acquired by B2Gold Corp in September 2022.
Connelly also served as managing director of Papillon Resources, where he was instrumental in the US$570 million merger with B2Gold Corp Ltd in October 2014. His experience extends to his tenure as COO of Endeavour Mining Ltd, following the merger with Adamus Resources Ltd, where he held the position of managing director and CEO. Connelly is affiliated with several professional bodies, including the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD), the Australian Institute of Management (AIMM), and the Society of Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration (SME).
In his new role, Connelly expressed enthusiasm about joining the Stellar Board. He emphasized the potential of the Heemskirk Tin Project, which is recognized as the highest-grade undeveloped tin resource in Australia and the third highest globally. Connelly underscored the robust economics of the project, as highlighted in the recent Updated Scoping Study, which supports advancing the project through the prefeasibility stage.
Leading the Prefeasibility Study
Andrew Doe has been appointed to lead the Prefeasibility Study (PFS) for the Heemskirk Tin Project. Doe is a seasoned mining engineer with 30 years of experience across operational, technical, contracting, and consulting roles. His career includes a notable stint as an executive at Macmahon, a major mining contractor, and as regional vice president at AngloGold Ashanti. Doe also has experience in Tasmania from his time as mining manager at the Beaconsfield Mine between 2010 and 2013.
Doe holds a First Class Mine Managers Certificate of Competency (WA) and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD). His expertise will be instrumental in guiding the Heemskirk Tin Project through the prefeasibility stage.
Project and Financial Outlook
The recent base case Scoping Study for the Heemskirk Tin Project has demonstrated robust economic potential, with additional upside possible through the conversion of inferred resources to indicated status, incorporating ore sorting into the process flow sheet, and exploring options for a standalone operation or using existing nearby infrastructure.
Stellar Resources currently holds $12.3 million in cash and has two drilling rigs on site, signaling the company’s commitment to advancing the Heemskirk project. The enhanced board and management team will play a crucial role in steering the project towards becoming development ready.
Managing Director and CEO Simon Taylor expressed optimism about the new appointments, highlighting that Connelly and Doe's extensive experience will be valuable as Stellar Resources progresses through the prefeasibility stage and prepares for future development. Taylor also acknowledged the recent agreements by major producers, which are viewed as positive indicators for renewed investment and stability in the mining sector.
Stellar Resources is poised for significant progress with these leadership changes and a strong focus on advancing the Heemskirk Tin Project, positioning it for future success in the global tin market.