Perth, Apr 22, 2008 (ABN Newswire) - Thundelarra Exploration Limited (ASX: THX; PNK: TLXPF) is pleased to announce that all major contracts for construction and operation of the Copernicus Nickel Project have been awarded. Importantly the rates secured are within allowances made in the April 2007 feasibility study.

Contractors were selected through a competitive tender process that was well supported. All the appointed contractors have extensive experience and successful track records in the mining and or construction industries.

Key contractors at Copernicus will be:

- Brierty Limited - Open pit mining and ore haulage

- Synergex - Explosives supply and delivery

- Riverlea Corporation Pty Ltd - Haul road construction

- GR Engineering Pty Ltd - Process engineering

Award of the contracts is conditional on receiving final approval from the Department of Industry and Resources prior to mobilisation to site, which is scheduled for early May. Open pit mining is scheduled to commence in late June with first nickel ore to be delivered to the Sally Malay mill towards the end of the September quarter.

The Copernicus Nickel Project is a joint venture between Thundelarra Exploration Ltd (40%) and Sally Malay Mining Limited (60%) with Copernicus Nickel Mines Pty Ltd as operator.

>>> SALLY MALAY MINING LIMITED
>>> THUNDELARRA EXPLORATION LIMITED