ASX-listed Southern Palladium received two prestigious awards at the Mine, Wine & Dine Gala Dinner held on Saturday, 7 February 2026.
The company was awarded Explorer and Developer of the Year, while Managing Director, Johan Odendaal, was named CEO of the Year – Explorer and Developer, recognising both project execution and leadership excellence. The awards are regarded as one of the mining industry’s most respected platforms for recognising leadership, innovation and responsible resource development.
The Explorer and Developer of the Year Award recognises companies demonstrating bold discovery, technical excellence and the determination required to convert mineral potential into future mining operations. The award acknowledges Southern Palladium’s disciplined exploration strategy, strong technical execution and consistent progress towards near-term mine development at its Bengwenyama Platinum Group Metals (PGM) project.
The CEO of the Year – Explorer and Developer Award celebrates leadership excellence and entrepreneurial vision in the exploration and development sector. The award recognises Mr Odendaal’s strategic leadership, stakeholder engagement and clear operational focus as Bengwenyama advances from exploration into development.
“These awards are a tremendous endorsement of the work our team has delivered over several years and the quality of the Bengwenyama PGM project,” said Executive Chairman Roger Baxter. “They reflect not only technical excellence, but also the collective commitment and vision required to responsibly advance a world-class asset towards development. We are proud to see Johan recognised for his leadership and dedication in progressing Bengwenyama.”
Managing Director Johan Odendaal added: “It is an honour to receive this recognition alongside such respected industry peers. This award reflects the strength of our technical teams, our partners and our shared belief in the long-term value of the Bengwenyama project. We remain focused on disciplined development, responsible mining practices and delivering sustainable value for all our stakeholders as we advance towards production.”
Southern Palladium continues to make strong progress at Bengwenyama, advancing Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) workstreams and early mine development planning. This progress has been further strengthened by the successful completion of an A$20 million capital raising, fully funding DFS activities and supporting advancement toward a Final Investment Decision.
The Company remains well positioned for the granting of a Mining Right following the successful submission of all documentation required under South Africa’s Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA), together with the Environmental Guarantee.
