Full coal quality analysis results for Eastern’s Broughton project in the Bowen Basin is due early 2005. A drilling program mid last year identified a 23.9 million tonne indicated resource.

 

Also due early 2005 is a decision from the New Zealand department of Conservation on access grants to Eastern’s Whareatea West project. Located in the north west of the South Island, initial geological studies have indicated the potential for a significant coking coal resource.

 

Eastern subsidiary Galilee Energy has employed consulting firm RISC to undertake a full technical review of the Rodney Creek pilot programme which includes assessing the potential for coal seam methane in other parts of the lease. The report is expected early 2005.