ARIKA RESOURCES LIMITED — Board/Management Information 2007

Dec 16, 2007

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ASX/media announcement

Portland Orthopaedics appoints John Brassil new CEO/managing director

17th December 2007, Sydney, Australia : Former managing director of medical devices leader Cardinal Health Pty Ltd John Brassil has been appointed the new chief executive officer and managing director of Portland Orthopaedics Limited (ASX:PLD). The appointment is effective today.

John Brassil has spent 20 years in the medical device industry mostly in senior management roles and most recently he was managing director of Cardinal Health in Australia/New Zealand. He oversaw a vibrant and rapidly expanding manufacturing business with his extensive knowledge of quality standards and regulatory affairs associated with medical device manufacturing.

John Brassil has worked with a number of blue chip medical device companies including GE, Cardinal Health and American Cyanamid. It was at American Cyanamid that he first was involved in commercialising orthopaedic products with his role leading the Acufex Microsurgical Division in Australia and the Asia Pacific Region.

Mr Brassil has degrees in Applied Science (UNSW), Sport Science (Cumberland/Syd Uni) and a Masters Degree in Accounting and Finance (Monash).

“John Brassil has heavy-duty experience in manufacturing and commercialising medical devices in international markets. He is a results-oriented professional who will drive sales of Portland’s products,” said Mr John Lee, chairman or Portland Orthopaedics.

He replaces David Sekel who has been CEO of Portland for six years and actively supports the transition process. He has agreed to the board’s request that he be available for advice and assistance.

“David has made over 50 overseas trips in recent times and this has been a strain on his family with three young children.

David has forced open markets for Portland’s hip and other joint replacement products in overseas and the Australian market. We are very grateful to David for his diligent work and numerous achievements,” said Mr Lee.

Enquiries: John Lee Rudi Michelson Portland Orthopaedics Monsoon Communications 0419 407 191 0411 402 737