Can Strickland Metals Balance Growth and Sustainability at Rogozna in 2025?

Project Momentum Builds at Rogozna

Strickland Metals Limited (ASX: STK) is making significant strides in advancing its Rogozna Gold and Base Metals Project in Serbia, a substantial resource boasting an estimated 7.4 million ounces of gold equivalent. The company’s latest update reveals a multi-faceted approach to project development, combining technical studies, environmental stewardship, and community engagement to lay the groundwork for a sustainable mining operation.

Mine development studies are progressing robustly, with metallurgical testwork underway at key deposits including Shanac and Medenovac, and soon to commence at Gradina. These tests aim to refine processing methods and confirm high metal recoveries, critical steps toward defining a viable mining operation. Complementing this, six drilling rigs continue to explore the project’s extensive mineralisation, underscoring the company’s commitment to resource expansion and optimisation.

Environmental and Community Focus

Recognising the importance of environmental responsibility, Strickland has engaged Envico, a Serbian environmental consultancy, to conduct expanded baseline surveys. These studies build on prior assessments and cover biodiversity, water quality, soil chemistry, and land use, providing a comprehensive understanding of the local ecosystem. Such groundwork is essential for ensuring that future mining activities align with sustainable development principles.

On the community front, Strickland has opened a dedicated office in Novi Pazar, just 10 kilometres from the project site. This facility serves as a hub for local engagement, fostering transparent communication with residents, farmers, and government officials. Recent initiatives include tree planting and plans to improve local water supplies, signalling the company’s commitment to positive social impact alongside its mining ambitions.

Strengthening Leadership for Growth

To support these expanding activities, Strickland has made several strategic management appointments. Sarai Tautari, with nearly two decades of experience at Fortescue, joins as Community Relations Manager, bringing expertise in stakeholder engagement. Mark Mantle, a seasoned mining engineer with global project experience, takes on the role of Mine Study Manager, while Ben Pearson, an environmental specialist with extensive international credentials, leads environmental and permitting efforts. These hires enhance the company’s capacity to navigate the complex technical, environmental, and social dimensions of project development.

Strickland’s Managing Director, Paul L’Herpiniere, emphasised the pivotal nature of 2025 for Rogozna, highlighting the integrated approach to advancing the project responsibly. The company aims to deliver an initial development scoping study by the end of the calendar year, a key milestone that will provide greater clarity on the project’s economic potential and development pathway.