Drilling Update

16 Jun 2005 11:00

Embargoed: 12.00hrs 16 June 2005 NORTHERN PETROLEUM PLC ("The Company") Northern Petroleum Plc announce that the augering operation was completed atthe Sandhills-2 appraisal site as planned. The 14-inch conductor casing was runto 67.5 feet below ground level in anticipation of the arrival of the BDF #28drilling rig.Once the drilling operations have begun it is planned that progress reportswill be issued at 09.30 hours each Wednesday. Should anything significant andmaterial occur a release will be made in accordance with AIM Regulations.Joint venture partners are:Northern Petroleum (GB) Ltd 57.5 % Magellan Petroleum (N.T.) Pty Ltd 22.5% Montrose Industries Ltd 5 % Black Rock Resources (UK) Ltd 5% Oil Quest Resources Plc 7.5% Oil and Gas Investments Ltd 2.5% If you require any further information please contact:Chris RobertsHansard Communications020 7245 1100Derek MusgroveNorthern Petroleum Plc020 7743 6080ENDNORTHERN PETROLEUM PLC