BHP BILLITON

Blackthorn Resources Limited announce exploration drilling results from the Mumbwa JV Project in Zambia. Assay results were received from 2 drill holes (ZMMUM-004 and ZMMUM-005) completed on the Kitumba Anomaly, and a single hole (ZMMUM-006A) completed on the Mushingashi Anomaly. Select highlights include, from Hole ZMMUM-004, 6m at 1.34 g/t Au between 206m and 212m, including 2m at 2.80 g/t Au between 210m and 212m. Hole ZMMUM-005 returned 12m at 0.51 % Cu between 246m and 258m, including 2m at 1.24 % Cu between 246m and 248m, and 2m at 0.59 % Cu between 254m and 256m. BHP Billiton (40% JV partner) is currently managing and funding the Phase 3B drilling program, which has been temporarily suspended while safety improvements and camp relocation are underway. Drilling is planned to re-commence upon the finalising site improvements and appointment of a new drilling contractor by BHP Billiton.