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New Zealand Energy Announces Second Quarter Results and Operational Update

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - Aug. 29, 2013) - New Zealand Energy Corp. ("NZEC" or the "Company") (TSX VENTURE:NZ)(OTCQX:NZERF) has released the results of its second quarter ended June 30, 2013. Details of the Company's financial results are described in the Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements and Management's Discussion and Analysis which, together with further details on each of the Company's projects, will be available on the Company's website at www.newzealandenergy.com and on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. All amounts are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated.

HIGHLIGHTS

Production and Development

Announced development plans for the Taranaki Basin until the end of 2014, forecasting exit production rates of 2,300 BOE/day (applying mid-case assumptions)1 48,752 barrels of oil ("bbl") produced and 49,204 bbl sold during six-month period, generating pre-tax oil sales of $5.3 million Positive net cash flow from petroleum operations during six-month period of approximately $1.7 million Average field netback during six-month period of $35.10/bbl Substantial reduction to direct production costs at Copper Moki site during June 2013 as a result of the installation of permanent production facilities 56,717 bbl produced and 59,623 bbl sold year to date (August 26, 2013), generating pre-tax oil sales of approximately $6.4 million Cumulative production of 264,938 bbl since commencement of production, generating pre-tax oil sales (including sales from pre-production testing) of approximately $28.5 million Initiated installation of artificial lift at Waitapu-2 well Received results of RPS reservoir study, providing the Company with a better understanding of Mt. Messenger reservoir characteristics and declines Lodged an application for a petroleum mining permit that will encompass the Company's Copper Moki, Waitapu, Arakamu and Wairere sites in the Eltham Permit (18.73 km2)

Acquisition of TWN Licences and TWN Assets from Origin Energy

Amended deal terms related to the acquisition, resulting in a simplified sale and reduced purchase price Entered into a binding letter agreement with L&M Energy ("L&M") to explore and operate the TWN Licences and TWN Assets, securing $18.25 million from L&M to purchase a 50% interest in the assets Obtained an extension to secure remaining required funds ($9.25 million) until September 30, 2013 Settled the HSBC operating line of credit Announced 2P reserves of 1.07 million BOE attributed to the TWN Licences (NZEC's interest)2 1 Barrels of oil equivalent (BOE) may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. The boe conversion ratio of 6 Mcf : 1 bbl is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. See Forward-looking Information for assumptions associated with production forecast.2 Reserves associated with the TWN Licences, as previously announced in an NZEC press release on June 17, 2013, will not be attributable to NZEC until the Company has completed the acquisition of assets from Origin and filed an updated Reserve report under NI 51-101. NZEC's shares of the TWN Reserves is 50%, as per the terms of the TWN Arrangement with L&M.

FINANCIAL SNAPSHOT

Six months
ended
June 30, 2013
Three months
ended
June 30, 2013
Six months
ended
June 30, 2012
Three months
ended
June 30, 2012
Total comprehensive income (loss)(Loss) earnings per share - basic and diluted

Note: The abbreviation bbl means barrel or barrels of oil.

Six-month Operating Results

During the six-month period ended June 30, 2013, the Company produced 48,752 barrels of oil and sold 49,204 barrels for total oil sales of $5,277,878, with an average oil sale price of $107.27 per barrel. Total recorded production revenue, net of a 5% royalty payable to the New Zealand Government (an average of $4.94 per barrel), was $5,034,958. Production costs during the six-month period ended June 30, 2013 totalled $3,307,876, or an average of $67.23 per barrel, generating an average field netback of $35.10 per barrel during the period. NZEC calculates the netback as the oil sale price less fixed and variable production costs and a 5% royalty. The notable reduction in netback during the six-month period ended June 30, 2013, is predominantly the result of decreased oil production. As previously announced, the Company had shut in the Waitapu-2 well during May 2013 in order to gather critical data for the Mt. Messenger reservoir study (see Reservoir Study) and to evaluate and install artificial lift.

The Company undertook a number of reservoir and production tests with the objective of optimizing oil production, and these tests have added to production costs. During the six-month period ended June 30, 2013, fixed production costs represented approximately 84% of total production costs. Installation of the Copper Moki surface facilities was completed in May and, as expected, this resulted in a reduction in production costs for the Copper Moki site during the month of June 2013, as discussed under June Operating Results - Copper Moki Site Only. Although shutting in the Waitapu-2 well in May 2013 reduced some of the fixed operating costs, the Company continues to incur costs on that site.

Three-month Operating Results

During the three-month period ended June 30, 2013, the Company produced 18,573 barrels of oil and sold 21,958 barrels for total oil sales of $2,216,815, with an average oil sale price of $100.96 per barrel. Total recorded production revenue, net of a 5% royalty payable to the New Zealand Government (an average of $4.88 per barrel), was $2,109,700. Production costs during the three-month period ended June 30, 2013 totalled $1,616,471, or an average of $73.62 per barrel, generating an average field netback of $22.46 per barrel during the period.

As demonstrated in Six-month Operating Results, reduced production following the shut-in of Waitapu-2 greatly impacted the three-month netback results, although this was partially offset by reduced production costs related to the Copper Moki site following the commissioning of surface facilities (see June Operating Results - Copper Moki Site Only).

June Operating Results - Copper Moki Site Only

The Company is starting to see the positive effect on production costs of installation of surface facilities as reflected in reduced production costs related to the Copper Moki site during June 2013. Following the commissioning of surface facilities on the Copper Moki site in May 2013, the Company incurred direct production costs of approximately $165,000 to produce 4,740 barrels of oil, which amounted to $34.81 per barrel during the month of June 2013, a significantly lower production cost per barrel than the quarterly average of $73.62 per barrel. This is also comparable to management's estimate of well-site production costs of NZ$40 per barrel as assumed in management's forecast of cash flows from operations referenced in the Company's August 6, 2013 press release.

Considering the proportion of fixed production costs reported for the quarter ended June 30, 2013, as well as netbacks reported in prior periods, the direct production costs per barrel is reflective of the economies of scale. Thus, further savings should arise from higher production levels from future developments.

At August 26, 2013, the Company had an estimated $4.6 million in net working capital.

ACQUISITION OF INTEREST IN UPSTREAM AND MIDSTREAM ASSETS

As previously announced, the Company has entered into an agreement with Origin Energy Resources NZ (TAWN) Limited ("Origin") to acquire three (net) petroleum mining licences in the Taranaki Basin totalling 23,049 acres (93.3 km2) - the Tariki, Waihapa and Ngaere Licences (the "TWN Licences") - as well as the Waihapa Production Station and associated gathering and sales infrastructure (the "TWN Assets"). On August 12, the Company announced that Origin had agreed to extend the deadline for satisfying the financing condition precedent for the acquisition from August 14, 2013 to September 30, 2013, and to extend the deadline for obtaining the required government approvals from September 13, 2013 to October 14, 2013. In exchange, the Company agreed to increase its acquisition deposit to $6 million.

L&M Letter Agreement to Form Joint Arrangement

On July 30, 2013, the Company announced that it had entered into a binding agreement (the "L&M Letter Agreement") with L&M Energy ("L&M") to form a 50/50 joint arrangement to explore, develop and operate the TWN Licences and the TWN Assets. Once the joint arrangement is completed, the Company and L&M will each own 50% of the TWN Licences and will also hold a 50% interest in the TWN Assets (the "TWN Joint Arrangement"). The reserves and resources estimated for the TWN Licences, as announced on June 17, 2013, will be attributable to NZEC on a 50% basis upon closing of the acquisition and the TWN Joint Arrangement, and filing of an updated reserve report.

Under the terms of the L&M Letter Agreement, L&M will contribute $18.25 million towards the approximately $33.5 million purchase consideration agreed to under the Origin Sale and Purchase Agreement, in order to obtain a 50% interest in the TWN Joint Arrangement. L&M will also contribute 50% of all future development and operating expenditures.

The Company will become the operator of the TWN Joint Arrangement, and decisions regarding exploration, development and operations of the TWN Joint Arrangement will be made by management committees with equal representation from both the Company and L&M.

The Company will be responsible for funding the $15.25 million balance of the $33.5 million purchase consideration agreed to under the Origin Sale and Purchase Agreement. The Company has paid a $6 million acquisition deposit to Origin, leaving $9.25 million to be funded to complete the acquisition.

The concurrent completion of the acquisition and the L&M Letter Agreement is subject to the Company placing the remainder of the purchase price into an escrow account by September 30, 2013, Origin and Contact consenting to L&M becoming a party to the definitive agreements, as well as receiving the relevant government approvals.

PROPERTY REVIEW

Taranaki Basin

The Taranaki Basin is situated on the west coast of the North Island and is currently New Zealand's only oil and gas producing basin, with total production of approximately 130,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day ("boe/d") from 18 fields. Within the Taranaki Basin, NZEC holds a 100% interest in the Eltham Permit, a 65% interest in the Alton Permit in joint arrangement with L&M, and a 60% interest in the Manaia Permit in joint arrangement with New Zealand Oil & Gas ("NZOG"). The Eltham Permit covers approximately 93,166 acres (377 km2) of which approximately 31,877 acres (129 km2) are offshore in shallow water. The Alton Permit covers approximately 119,204 onshore acres (482 km2). The Manaia Permit covers approximately 27,426 onshore acres (111 km2) and was granted to NZEC and NZOG in December 2012 as part of the annual New Zealand block offer for exploration permits.

NZEC also expects to acquire 50% of the three TWN Licences and to hold a 50% interest in the TWN Assets upon completion of the acquisition of assets from Origin, as outlined in Acquisition of Interest in Upstream and Midstream Assets.

Production

At the date of this MD&A, three of the Company's four commercially producing wells are in active production. The Waitapu-2 well is currently shut in and installation of artificial lift and surface facilities is underway. During the quarter, the Company also temporarily shut-in its Copper Moki-3 well to replace the down-hole pump, which seized as a result of fines settling in the pump during commissioning of the Copper Moki surface facilities. The wells are producing light oil that is trucked to the Shell-operated Omata Tank Farm and sold at Brent pricing. Cumulatively, as of the date of this report, the Company has produced approximately 264,938 barrels of oil, with cumulative pre-tax oil sales of approximately $28.5 million, including sales from oil produced during testing (net results of operations are discussed under Results of Operations). The wells have consistently produced between 123 bbl/d and 162 bbl/d since July 1, 2013, with an average production rate of 144 bbl/d, indicating that oil production from the Copper Moki wells appears to have stabilized. Over 26 production days in August 2013, the wells have collectively produced oil at an average rate of 139 bbl/d and extracted gas at an average rate of 490 mcf/d. The Company is not yet generating cash flows from extracted gas.

Copper Moki-1 has been producing since December 10, 2011, Copper Moki-2 since April 1, 2012 and Copper Moki-3 since July 2, 2012. All three wells produce ~41° API oil from the Mt. Messenger formation and flowed from natural reservoir pressure until October 2012, when NZEC installed artificial lift (pump jacks) to stabilize production rates.

Waitapu-2 commenced production on December 20, 2012 and was shut-in in May 2013 as described above. The well produces ~40° API oil from the Mt. Messenger formation and flowed from natural reservoir pressure until shut-in. Installation of artificial lift is currently underway. In addition to installation of artificial lift, during the period the Company ran down-hole gauges into Waitapu-2 that measures the bottom hole temperature and pressure of the reservoir. These data were critical to the recently completed Mt. Messenger reservoir study (see below).

Reservoir Study

Production declines from the Copper Moki wells have been greater than expected and this prompted the Company to initiate an independent reservoir study through RPS Group PLC, a world leader in well evaluation. The study provided the Company with a better understanding of reservoir characteristics and declines, based on data from Waitapu-2, the three Copper Moki wells, and other Mt. Messenger wells in the region.

The RPS study concluded that declines are not related to wax buildup or mechanical issues. Information from the study and from a proprietary database merging five 3D seismic surveys has allowed the Company to refine its Mt. Messenger exploitation strategy, which includes:

Choosing optimally sized targets based on interpretation of the merged 3D dataset, Reducing costs by drilling multiple wells from each pad, and Prioritization of targets close to the Waihapa Production Station to expedite tie-in.

The Mt. Messenger formation remains an integral part of the Company's development plans, as described in the Outlook section. These development plans include the Horoi-1 well, which is expected to be drilled later this year on the Alton Permit.

Application for Eltham Petroleum Mining Permit

During the quarter ended June 30, 2013, the Company lodged an application for a petroleum mining permit that will have an initial duration of 15 years. This petroleum mining permit will cover 18.73 km2 within the area currently included under the Company's Eltham Permit and includes all sites on which the Company had previously drilled its ten exploration wells (i.e. the Copper Moki site, Waitapu site, Arakamu site, and the Wairere site). A successful application for the petroleum mining permit will extend the duration that the Company is able to operate within the area covered by the permit, and will also reduce the surface area within the existing Eltham Permit that will be subject to relinquishment in September 2013 when the Eltham Permit is due for extension.

East Coast Basin

The East Coast Basin of New Zealand's North Island hosts two prospective oil shale formations, the Waipawa and Whangai, which are the source of more than 300 oil and gas seeps. Within the East Coast Basin, NZEC holds a 100% interest in the Castlepoint Permit, which covers approximately 551,042 onshore acres (2,230 km2), and a 100% interest in the Ranui Permit, which covers approximately 223,087 onshore acres (903 km2) and is adjacent to the Castlepoint Permit. NZEC is considering relinquishing the Ranui Permit but has not yet made a definitive decision in this regard. On September 3, 2010, NZEC applied to the Minister of Energy to obtain a 100% interest in the East Cape Permit. The application is uncontested and the Company expects the East Cape Permit to be granted to NZEC upon completion of New Zealand Petroleum & Minerals' ("NZPAM") review of the application. The East Cape Permit covers approximately 1,067,495 onshore acres (4,320 km2) on the northeast tip of the North Island. In addition, NZEC has entered into a binding agreement with Westech to acquire 80% ownership and become operator of the Wairoa Permit, which covers approximately 267,862 onshore acres (1,084 km2) south of the East Cape Permit. Preliminary approval of transfer of ownership was obtained from NZPAM on December 20, 2012 and formation of a joint arrangement with Westech is subject to final NZPAM approval.

The Company has completed the coring of two test holes on the Castlepoint Permit. The Orui (125 metres total depth) and Te Mai (195 metres total depth) collected core data across the Waipawa and Whangai shales. NZEC also completed a test hole on the Ranui Permit. Ranui-2 was drilled to 1,440 metres, coring the Whangai shale across several intervals. In Q2-2012, NZEC completed 70 line km of 2D seismic data across the Castlepoint and Ranui permits to further its technical understanding of the area and identify targets for exploration in 2013.

The Wairoa Permit has been actively explored for many years, with extensive 2D seismic data across the permit and log data from more than 15 wells drilled on the property. Historical exploration focused on the conventional Miocene sands. NZEC's technical team has identified conventional opportunities as well as potential in the unconventional oil shales that underlie the property. NZEC's team knows the property well and provided extensive consulting services (through the consulting company Ian R Brown Associates) to previous permit holders, assisting with seismic acquisition and interpretation, well-site geology and regional prospectivity evaluation. In addition, NZEC's team assisted with permitting and land access agreements and worked extensively with local district council, local service providers, land owners and iwi groups, allowing the team to establish an excellent relationship with local communities. During Q1-2013 the Company completed a 50 km 2D seismic program on the property, the results of which are currently being processed and reviewed and will help to identify exploration targets on the permit.

OUTLOOK

On August 6, 2013, the Company announced its updated plans to develop its oil and gas assets in the Taranaki Basin, including its plans for exploration and development of the TWN Licences and integration of the TWN Assets. Completing the acquisition of the TWN Licences and TWN Assets will be transformative for NZEC, resulting in a fully integrated upstream/midstream company with the cash flow, infrastructure and inventory to support long-term growth.

Taranaki Basin

Owning 50% of the TWN Assets and TWN Licences will allow NZEC to optimize development of its existing permits. The gas supply that NZEC has identified to reactivate gas lift and production from existing Tikorangi wells on the TWN Licences will provide the blending gas required to deliver NZEC's Copper Moki gas to market, bringing additional cash flow to NZEC from the Copper Moki wells. The Company also plans to build a pipeline to connect the Waitapu-2 well to the Copper Moki site and is currently evaluating the economics of this initiative. The pipeline would effectively tie in the Waitapu gas production (and associated liquefied petroleum gas or "LPG") into the Waihapa Production Station via the Copper Moki pipeline.

As NZEC continues to explore the Eltham and Alton permits, the Company will focus on drill targets that are close to the Waihapa Production Station and associated pipelines, allowing for rapid and cost effective tie-in of both oil and gas production.

NZEC has prepared a detailed financial and production model outlining the exploration and development program for its Taranaki assets that has allowed the Company to forecast the impact of those activities on its production and cash flow. NZEC's activities planned to the end of 2014 in the Taranaki Basin are outlined in the table below:

PLANNED POST ACQUISITION WORK PROGRAMProduction Impact
(Exit 2014)
Tikorangi well reactivations
-- Reactivate six existing Tikorangi wells with gas lift
-- High volume lift installation on two initial wellsIncluded in 2014
production belowMt. Messenger development
-- Waitapu artificial lift and tie-inTwo Mt. Messenger uphole completions in existing wells
-- Horoi exploration well (including surface infrastructure)Included in 2014
production belowTikorangi Well Reactivations
-- Increase water handling capacity at Waihapa Production Station
-- High volume lift installation on four remaining wellsNew Tikorangi wells
-- Drill two new Tikorangi wellsMt. Messenger development
-- Three new Mt. Messenger wells (including surface infrastructure)Kapuni development (cost to be funded by new JV partner)
-- Two new Kapuni wellsSeismic acquisition, G&G studies and OtherExit 2,300 boe/day
(including production from
existing wells)

The forecast on which the above information is based reflects management's mid-case production assumptions, while capital costs indicate management's net share of the capital cost to be incurred by the TWN Joint Arrangement.

Development and operating costs in the first 12 months following the date of this report are to be funded initially by existing working capital and cash flows from production. However, in order to carry out all of the planned development activities, the Company is considering a number of options to increase its financial capacity. These options include increasing cash flow from oil production, additional joint arrangements, commercial arrangements or other financing alternatives. For the assumptions related to the production forecast, refer to the full Management's Discussion & Analysis filed on the Company's website and on SEDAR.

East Coast Basin

NZEC has drilled two stratigraphic holes on its 100% working interest Castlepoint Permit and one stratigraphic hole on its 100% working interest Ranui Permit. These three stratigraphic test wells have advanced NZEC's understanding of the Waipawa and Whangai formations. A review of the geochemical and physical properties of the two shale packages, coupled with information from seismic data, has focused NZEC's exploration strategy for the area. The Company is actively seeking a joint venture partner for its East Coast permits. The Company is currently considering its plans for the Ranui Permit, including possible relinquishment of the permit.

NZEC has applied to NZPAM to extend the deadline for drilling the exploration well on the Castlepoint Permit to Q2-2014, while the Company continues to work towards obtaining the requisite consents and land access agreements for the Castlepoint Permit drill locations. The Company has met regularly with local communities to discuss its exploration plans.

NZEC completed a 50-km 2D seismic survey on the Wairoa Permit in Q2-2013 and is currently processing the data. The Company will finalize its exploration plans for the permit after reviewing all of the seismic and well log data.

The Company's application for the East Cape Permit is uncontested and NZEC expects the permit to be granted upon completion of NZPAM's review of the application.

SUMMARY OF QUARTERLY RESULTS

Exploration and evaluation assetsTotal comprehensive income (loss)Basic (loss) earnings per shareDiluted (loss) earnings per shareExploration and evaluation assetsTotal comprehensive income (loss)Basic (loss) earnings per shareDiluted (loss) earnings per share

On behalf of the Board of Directors

John Proust, Chief Executive Officer & Director

About New Zealand Energy Corp.

NZEC is an oil and natural gas company engaged in the production, development and exploration of petroleum and natural gas assets in New Zealand. NZEC's property portfolio collectively covers approximately 2.25 million acres (including permits and acquisitions pending) of conventional and unconventional prospects in the Taranaki Basin and East Coast Basin of New Zealand's North Island. The Company's management team has extensive experience exploring and developing oil and natural gas fields in New Zealand and Canada. NZEC plans to add shareholder value by executing a technically disciplined exploration and development program focused on the onshore and offshore oil and natural gas resources in the politically and fiscally stable country of New Zealand. NZEC is listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "NZ" and on the OTCQX International under the symbol "NZERF". More information is available at www.newzealandenergy.com or by emailing info@newzealandenergy.com.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as such term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This document contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities legislation (collectively "forward-looking statements"). The use of any of the words "will", "intend", "objective", "become", "transforming", "potential", "continuing", "pursue", "subject to", "look forward", "unlocking" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements should not be unduly relied upon. The Company believes the expectations reflected in those forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct. This document contains forward-looking statements and assumptions pertaining to the following: business strategy, strength and focus; the granting of regulatory approvals; the timing for receipt of regulatory approvals; geological and engineering estimates relating to the resource potential of the properties; the estimated quantity and quality of the Company's oil and natural gas resources; supply and demand for oil and natural gas and the Company's ability to market crude oil and natural gas; expectations regarding the Company's ability to continually add to reserves and resources through acquisitions and development; the Company's ability to obtain qualified staff and equipment in a timely and cost-efficient manner; the Company's ability to raise capital on appropriate terms, or at all; the ability of the Company to obtain the necessary approvals and secure the necessary financing to conclude the acquisition of assets from Origin on schedule, or at all; the ability of the Company to obtain the necessary approvals to conclude the TWN Joint Arrangement on schedule, or at all; the ability of the Company's subsidiaries to obtain mining permits and access rights in respect of land and resource and environmental consents; the recoverability of the Company's crude oil, natural gas reserves and resources; and future capital expenditures to be made by the Company.

Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of the risk factors set forth below and elsewhere in the document, such as the speculative nature of exploration, appraisal and development of oil and natural gas properties; uncertainties associated with estimating oil and natural gas resources; changes in the cost of operations, including costs of extracting and delivering oil and natural gas to market, that affect potential profitability of oil and natural gas exploration; operating hazards and risks inherent in oil and natural gas operations; volatility in market prices for oil and natural gas; market conditions that prevent the Company from raising the funds necessary for exploration and development on acceptable terms or at all; global financial market events that cause significant volatility in commodity prices; unexpected costs or liabilities for environmental matters; competition for, among other things, capital, acquisitions of resources, skilled personnel, and access to equipment and services required for exploration, development and production; changes in exchange rates, laws of New Zealand or laws of Canada affecting foreign trade, taxation and investment; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of acquisitions; and other factors. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. Statements relating to "reserves and resources" are deemed to be forward-looking statements, as they involve the implied assessment, based on certain estimates and assumptions, that the resources described can be profitably produced in the future. This document includes references to management's forecasts of future development, production and cash flows from such operations. The major assumptions applied by management are outlined in the MD&A, published on the Company's website and on SEDAR. The forward-looking statements contained in the document are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. These statements speak only as of the date of this document and the Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements that are contained in this document, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING RESERVE ESTIMATES

The oil and gas reserves calculations and income projections were estimated in accordance with the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook ("COGEH") and National Instrument 51-101 ("NI 51-101"). The term barrels of oil equivalent ("boe") may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A boe conversion ratio of six Mcf: one bbl was used by NZEC. This conversion ratio is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. Reserves are estimated remaining quantities of oil and natural gas and related substances anticipated to be recoverable from known accumulations, as of a given date, based on: the analysis of drilling, geological, geophysical, and engineering data; the use of established technology; and specified economic conditions, which are generally accepted as being reasonable. Reserves are classified according to the degree of certainty associated with the estimates. Proved Reserves are those reserves that can be estimated with a high degree of certainty to be recoverable. It is likely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will exceed the estimated proved reserves. Probable Reserves are those additional reserves that are less certain to be recovered than proved reserves. It is equally likely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will be greater or less than the sum of the estimated proved plus probable reserves. Possible Reserves are those additional reserves that are less certain to be recovered than probable reserves. There is a 10% probability that the actual remaining quantities recovered will exceed the sum of the estimated proved plus probable plus possible reserves. Revenue projections presented are based in part on forecasts of market prices, current exchange rates, inflation, market demand and government policy which are subject to uncertainties and may in future differ materially from the forecasts above. Present values of future net revenues do not necessarily represent the fair market value of the reserves evaluated. The report also contains forward-looking statements including expectations of future production and capital expenditures. Information concerning reserves may also be deemed to be forward looking as estimates imply that the reserves described can be profitably produced in the future. These statements are based on current expectations that involve a number of risks and uncertainties, which could cause the actual results to differ from those anticipated.


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Agentur f�r Energieregulierung in Alberta genehmigt Antrag auf HCSS-Demoprojekt auf Liegenschaften von Deep Well

SOURCE: Deep Well Oil & Gas, Inc.

Deep Well Oil & Gas, Inc.

EDMONTON, ALBERTA--(Marketwired - Aug 27, 2013) - Deep Well Oil & Gas, Inc. (und seine Tochtergesellschaften Northern Alberta Oil Ltd. und Deep Well Oil & Gas, Inc. - "Deep Well" oder das "Unternehmen")(OTCQB: DWOG) teilt mit, dass die Energieregulierungsstelle Alberta Energy Regulator ("AER", das ehemalige Energy Resources Conservation Board bzw. ERCB) einen von dem Unternehmen bei AER eingereichten Erschließungsantrag unter Einsatz der horizontalen zyklischen Dampfstimulation ("HCSS") genehmigt hat. Dabei geht es um das geplante Aufbereitungsprojekt auf der einen Hälfte einer Liegenschaft, die an der Kreuzung 10-92-13W5 in der Nähe von Sawn Lake (Alberta) gelegen ist. Diese Genehmigung bezieht sich auf eine Liegenschaft, die sich derzeit zu 90% im Besitz von Deep Well befindet. MP West Canada SAS, eine hundertprozentige Tochter der Saint-Aubin Energy (die zu einem Drittel Maurel et Prom und zu zwei Dritteln MPI, zwei in Paris an der Börse gelisteten Unternehmen gehört), hat die Option, zusätzlich zu dem bisher bekannt gegebenen SAGD-Projekt mit bis zu 45% aktiver Beteiligung an diesem HCSS-Projekt zu partizipieren, indem sie sich verpflichtet, zusätzliche 110.000.000 US-Dollar an Finanzierung zu leisten.

Im September 2009 hatte Deep Well bei der AER einen Antrag auf die gewerbliche Aufbereitung von Bitumen gestellt, um eine unserer Quellen für eine potenzielle Erschließung mittels der zyklischen Dampfstimulation ("CSS") an einer unserer vertikalen Quellen einzuschätzen. Im Oktober 2010 wurde dieser Antrag durch die AER genehmigt. Im Februar 2012 reichte Deep Well bei der AER einen Änderungsantrag zu dem vorher genehmigten CSS-Antrag ein mit dem Ziel, ein HCSS-Aufbereitungsverfahren statt des vertikalen CSS an der Quelle einzusetzen.

Die Änderung des Produktionsplans von Deep Well entstand aus der Lagerstättenmodellierung durch DeGoyler und MacNaughton Canada ("D&M"). Diese Modelle zeigten die Ergebnisse einer thermischen Aufbereitung mithilfe des horizontalen CSS-Verfahrens mit optimierten Aufbereitungsfaktoren für bestimmte Bereiche der Deep Well-Lagerstätte.

Diese AER-Genehmigung für das von Deep Well geplante thermische Aufbereitungsprojekt in der Nähe von Sawn Lake auf einem halben Abschnitt der Liegenschaft an der Kreuzung 10-92-13W5 ist die Genehmigung, die noch fehlte, bevor ernsthafte Arbeiten in Angriff genommen werden konnten.

Diese Pressemitteilung enthält zukunftsgerichtete Aussagen, u.a. solche zu beabsichtigten Tätigkeiten und Terminen für die Produktion im Sawn-Lake-Gebiet. Die Wörter oder Fügungen "würde", "soll", "wird erlauben", "beabsichtigen", "wird wahrscheinlich dazu führen", "erwartet", "wird weiterhin", "wird beabsichtigt", "potenziell", "Aufbereitung", "aufbereitbar", "Aufbereitungsfähigkeit", "Schätzung", "Prognose", "Projekt" oder ähnliche Ausdrücke sind dazu bestimmt, zukunftsgerichtete Aussagen anzuzeigen. Die tatsächlichen Ergebnisse können wesentlich von den Ergebnissen abweichen, die in dem von der Gesellschaft geplanten Geschäft im Zusammenhang mit Erdöl und Gas prognostiziert und in dieser Pressemitteilung beschrieben werden. Das Geschäft der Gesellschaft und die Umsetzung der in dieser Pressenotiz angegebenen Ergebnisse unterliegen verschiedenen Risiken, die in den vom Unternehmen bei der SEC eingereichten Unterlagen diskutiert werden. Die Einreichungen des Unternehmens können im Edgar-System der SEC eingesehen werden auf www.sec.gov. Die in diesem Dokument aufgestellten Aussagen beziehen sich auf das Datum dieser Pressemitteilung und man darf sich nicht auf zu einem späteren Zeitpunkt verlassen. Das Unternehmen weist die Leser darauf hin, sich nicht in unzulässiger Weise auf derartige Aussagen zu verlassen. Sofern nicht anderweitig gesetzlich vorgeschrieben, verpflichten wir uns nicht und lehnen ausdrücklich jede Haftung zur Verpflichtung ab, in die Zukunft gerichtete Aussagen um Vorkommnisse, Entwicklungen, unvorhergesehene Ereignisse oder Umstände nach dem Datum einer solchen Aussage zu aktualisieren.


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Marauder Resources East Coast Inc.: News Release

CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwired - Aug. 28, 2013) - Marauder Resources East Coast Inc. (TSX VENTURE:MES) ("Marauder") announces that it has filed with Canadian securities authorities its interim unaudited consolidated financial statements and management's discussion and analysis for the three and six months ended June 30, 2013.

Copies of the filed documents may be obtained through http://www.sedar.com/.

This news release may contain forward-looking information. Actual future results may differ materially from those contemplated.

The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain forward-looking information. Actual future results may differ materially from those contemplated.


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Samoth Announces Private Placement

CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwired - Aug. 30, 2013) -

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES OR THROUGH UNITED STATES WIRE SERVICES

Samoth Oilfield Inc. ("Samoth" or the "Corporation") (TSX VENTURE:SCD) is pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement for gross proceeds of up to $500,000 (the "Private Placement").

Pursuant to the Private Placement, which is subject to acceptance by the TSX Venture Exchange, Samoth intends to issue, pursuant to applicable exemptions from registration and prospectus requirements of Canadian securities laws, up to 10,000,000 Common Share Units (the "Units) at a price of $0.05 per Unit. Each Unit is comprised of one Common Share and one Common Share Purchase Warrant (each a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one additional Common Share of Samoth at an exercise price of $0.05 for a period of two (2) years from the date of issuance of the Units.

The proceeds from the Private Placement will be used for the purposes of potential asset acquisition(s), reserves evaluation and for general working capital.

READER ADVISORY

Statements in this press release may contain forward-looking information including, statements regarding expected use of proceeds. Any statements that are contained in this press release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Samoth. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. There can be no assurance that the proposed private placement will be completed. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and Challenger does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by securities law.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release


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Greenfields Petroleum Corporation Announces Financial Results for the Three and Six Months Ended June 30, 2013 and Operations Update

HOUSTON, TEXAS--(Marketwired - Aug. 29, 2013) -

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES. ANY FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF U.S. SECURITIES LAWS.

Greenfields Petroleum Corporation (the "Company" or "Greenfields") (TSX VENTURE:GNF)(TSX VENTURE:GNF.DB), an independent exploration and production company with producing assets in Azerbaijan, announces its financial results and operating highlights for the second quarter and year-to-date of 2013.

Second Quarter and Year-to-Date 2013 Financial Results and Operating Highlights

The Company's entitlement sales volumes from production for its net interest in the Bahar ERDPSA averaged 556 bbl/d and 4,645 mcf/d or 1,330 boe/d in the second quarter and 499 bbl/d and 4,043 mcf/d or 1,173 boe/d year-to-date. Through its interest in Bahar Energy, the Company realized average netback oil prices of $95.56/bbl for the quarter and $99.26/bbl year-to-date. Realized gas prices have remained constant during 2013 at $3.96/mcf. The second offshore oil well, Gum Deniz 716, was drilled in the Gum Deniz Field on platform 2 with the PSG-1 drilling rig. The initial production from the 716 well was over 650 bbl/d. The Company recorded net income of $0.5 million and EPS of $0.03 for the second quarter and net loss of $3.3 million and EPS of ($0.21) year-to-date.

Operating Highlights and Plans

As of June 30, 2013, gross field production levels were approximately 1,884 bbl/d for oil and 21,532 mcf/d for natural gas, or approximately 5,758 boe/d. This puts Bahar Energy ahead of schedule in reaching the 1.5 times 2008 production target of 6,944 boe/d to attain the full 25 year contract terms for the ERDPSA. With additional oil and gas workovers scheduled and increased production from 2013 new well drilling in the Gum Deniz Field, Bahar Energy anticipates reaching the 1.5 production target in fourth quarter 2013, possibly one quarter ahead of prior estimates. Gross field production for the April-June 2013 period averaged 1,876 bbl/d for oil and 15,605 mcf/d for natural gas or approximately 4,683 boe/d, an increase of 37% over first quarter production. This increase was due to successful workovers and oil production from the new Gum Deniz 715 well. The Gum Deniz 716 well commenced drilling April 8, 2013 and reached intermediate casing point on May 12, 2013 and stuck pipe while coming out of hole to log. After several unsuccessful attempts, the well was sidetracked and was drilled to a total depth of 2,891 meters. The well was logged with a total net pay of 244 meters and completed in 15 meters of SP sand, which flowed at the initial rate of approximately 650 bbl/d. In the Gum Deniz Field, the workovers and recompletions on several wells have added approximately 230 bbl/d in gross field production. In the Bahar Gas Field, the recompletions on wells 196, 208 and 238 have added approximately 9,800 mcf/d in gross field production (1,763 boe/d). Most notably, the Bahar 196 gas well was re-completed and is flowing at 7,400 mcf/d. The PSG-3 rig is currently in the process of mobilization and rig up on Platform 208. The GD-757 well is expected to spud by early October 2013, initiating the drilling campaign in the eastern portion of Gum Deniz Field. Planned Gum Deniz development drilling will continue through 2015 and possibly longer with at least three drilling rigs. A third rig is currently being tendered. Bahar Energy tendered and awarded a contract for a 200 square kilometer 3D seismic survey to cover the Gum Deniz Field area. PGS, the winning bidder, completed the hazard survey and environmental work in July 2013 in preparation for acquisition work. Mobilization of vessels and equipment is underway and acquisition is expected to begin in October 2013, after securing all required permits from the required agencies. The acquisition is expected to take approximately 5 months after which the data will be processed for interpretation. The integration of the new 3D seismic and well control data will allow for the optimization of the location and producing rates of wells to be drilled to develop the Gum Deniz Field. The 3D seismic acquisition survey over the Bahar-2 exploration area, located immediately south of the Bahar Gas Field in the ERDPSA area, was completed in December 2012 after acquiring 82 square kilometers of 3D data. The data have been processed and the interpretation is being finalized. If the interpretation demonstrates an attractive exploration prospect or prospects, Bahar Energy will develop an appropriate drilling strategy to evaluate the commerciality of the prospects. This is contingent on approval by SOCAR of a request, which has been submitted, for an extension of the three years Contract Exploration Period past October 2013. As of the morning of August 29, 2013, the Gum Deniz 714 well is drilling 12 1/4 hole at a depth of 1,986 meters with an expected completing date in late September 2013.

Selected Information

On January 1, 2013, the Company changed accounting for its interest in Bahar Energy Limited, a joint venture, from proportionately consolidated to the equity method of accounting. This was required under IFRS 11, "Joint Arrangements", issued on May 12, 2011, which replaces IAS 31, "Interest in Joint Ventures". The standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013. See Note 3 - "Changes in Accounting Policies" and Note 8 - "Investment in Joint Ventures" in the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements for the three and six months ended June 30, 2013 for more information.

The selected information below is from the Greenfields' Management Discussion & Analysis for the three and six months ended June 30, 2013. The Company's complete financial statements as of and for the three and six months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012 with the notes thereto and the related Management's Discussion & Analysis can be found either on Greenfields' website at www.Greenfields-Petroleum.com or on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. All amounts below are in thousands of US dollars unless otherwise noted.

Greenfields Petroleum Corporation

Convertible debt and Shareholders' equity (3)(1) Revenues for the three and six months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012 reflect change from proportionate consolidation to equity method of accounting for the Company's investment in Bahar Energy Limited. 2012 financial results have been restated to reflect the change in accounting policy effective January 1, 2013. (2) The June 30, 2012 working capital balance has been restated to exclude the Company's share of Bahar Energy Limited working capital due to the change to equity method accounting noted above. (3) Convertible debt is combined with shareholders' equity at June 30, 2013 due to the Company's right to settle this debt by issuing shares. (4) These figures were restated to comply with the adoption of IFRS impacting the accounting for the joint venture. See Note 3 of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for the three and six months ended June 30, 2013. Bahar Energy Limited (a Joint Venture)
Average Entitlement Sales Volumes (1)Average Entitlement Sales Volumes(1)(1) Daily volumes represent the Company's share of the Contractor Parties entitlement volumes net of 5% compensatory petroleum and the government's share of profit petroleum.

About Greenfields Petroleum Corporation

Greenfields is a junior oil and natural gas Company focused on the development and production of proven oil and gas reserves principally in the Republic of Azerbaijan. The Company plans to expand its oil and gas assets through further farm-ins, and acquisitions of Production Sharing Agreements from foreign governments containing previously discovered but under-developed international oil and gas fields, also known as "greenfields". More information about the Company may be obtained on the Greenfields website at www.greenfields-petroleum.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by Greenfields. Although Greenfields believes that the expectations and assumptions on which the forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because Greenfields can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct.

Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties most of which are beyond the control of Greenfields. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking information prove incorrect, actual results, performance or achievements could vary materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. These risks include, but are not limited to, risks associated with the oil and gas industry in general (e.g., operational risks in development, exploration and production; delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures; the uncertainty of reserve estimates; the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to production, costs and expenses, and health, safety, political and environmental risks), commodity price and exchange rate fluctuations and uncertainties resulting from potential delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures. Additional risk factors can be found under the heading "Risk Factors" in Greenfields' Annual Information Form and similar headings in Greenfields' Management's Discussion & Analysis which may be viewed on www.sedar.com.

The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof and Greenfields undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws. The Company's forward-looking information is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement.

Notes to Oil and Gas Disclosures

Barrels Oil Equivalent or "boe" may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A boe conversion ratio of 6mcf: 1bbl is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. The Company uses a 6mcf: 1bbl ratio to calculate its share of entitlement sales from the Bahar project. The production threshold of 6,944 boe to earn the full 25 year initial term of the ERDPSA uses a 5.559 mcf: 1bbl conversion ratio per contract to measure total field production toward this obligation.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.


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Appulse Corporation: Announcing an Exclusive Canadian Services Provider Agreement With Flottweg Separation Technology Inc.

CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwired - Aug. 29, 2013) - Appulse Corporation (TSX VENTURE:APL) ("Appulse") today announced that its primary operating subsidiary, Centrifuges Unlimited Inc. ("CUI ") has signed an exclusive authorized services provider agreement for Canada with Flottweg Separation Technology Inc., a subsidiary of Flottweg SE ("Flottweg"), headquartered in Vilsbiburg, Germany.

Flottweg is a major centrifuge manufacturer with a strong international reputation for quality. With an annual revenue for the group exceeding 140 million euros, Flottweg exports sophisticated separation equipment to all major markets, with eight prime business centers including Flottweg Separation Technology Inc. of Independence Kentucky, covering the United States and Canada. The company is increasing its focus on the Canadian market with applications in a variety of industries currently concentrated in central and eastern Canada.

Under terms of the agreement, CUI will provide maintenance, repair and start-up services to current and future Flottweg customers in Canada. All spare parts requirements will be facilitated through CUI from a local stock of Flottweg parts. CUI will also be involved in the sale of new Flottweg machines for the industrial market. In addition, the companies have entered into preliminary discussions related to the joint development of a new decanter style centrifuge related primarily to the oil industry including drilling mud applications.

About Appulse

Through its subsidiaries, Centrifuges Unlimited Inc., Rolyn Oilfield Services Inc., and Design Machining Unlimited Inc., Appulse specializes in the sales, servicing and refurbishing of centrifuge equipment, serving both domestic and international markets, and offers full service industrial machining. The Corporation continues to pursue expansion to its product base and geographic markets, in addition to adopting a program of controlled acquisitions complementing its current activities.

Further information on Appulse and its subsidiaries can be obtained through the Corporation's website, at www.appulsecorp.net and on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Certain statements in this release are forward looking and the reader is cautioned that such information, although considered reasonable by the Corporation at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its regulation services provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.


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Santa Maria Petroleum Inc. Announces Second Quarter 2013 Results

CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwired - Aug. 29, 2013) -

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE U.S.

Santa Maria Petroleum Inc. (formerly Quetzal Energy Ltd.) (TSX VENTURE:SMQ) announces its unaudited results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2013.

HIGHLIGHTS DURING THE THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2013

On June 7, 2013 Santa Maria announced that it had completed the sale of its 25% oil and gas interest in the Canaguaro Block to Petrominerales Ltd. ("Petrominerales") (TSX:PMG); the transaction was completed on June 7, 2013. Petrominerales paid Santa Maria a total of $US6.0 million in cash for its 25 per cent private participating interest. Certain customary post-completion price adjustments will be completed and all vendor liabilities outstanding on that date will be paid by the end of September 2013. The transaction was first announced on May 6, 2013. On June 13, 2013 Santa Maria remitted $1,875,000 to the operators of Block 21 in Colombia as the third and final installment pursuant to the Amending Agreement to the original Participation Agreement for Block 21. The Company has satisfied its financial obligations in respect of this block and no further funding is required. On February 26, 2013 the operator of Block 21 commenced drilling the Calacho-1 well, the first exploration well on this block and reached total depth of 7,000 feet on March 2, 2013. On March 14, 2013 the operator of Block 21 commenced drilling the Rocamao well, the second exploration well on this block and reached total depth of 7,870 feet on March 27, 2013. Both of these wells were tested during the second quarter of 2013.

The C7 formation in the Calacho No. 1 well was tested. During the test period the C7 formation produced a total of 5,857 barrels of fluid, consisting of 5,669 barrels of water and 188 barrels of 35 degree API oil. The maximum fluid production rate was approximately 1,450 barrels per day. The testing program was ended when the water cut reached 100%. With no further oil production, the operator made the decision to abandon the well.

The C7 formation in the Rocamao No. 1 well was also tested. The C7 formation produced 64 barrels of water in 3 hours at rates that fluctuated between 192 and 336 barrels of fluid per day. Total testing resulted in the production of 329 barrels of water with no oil produced and the decision was made by the operator to abandon the well. With no oil produced, the operator made the decision to abandon the well.

With the abandonment of both the Calacho No. 1 well and the Rocamao No. 1 well, Santa Maria Santa Maria informed the operator that it would not exercise its option to carry on with an interest in the block.

At the annual and special general meeting held in Toronto, Ontario on June 27, 2013 the shareholders approved the continued appointments of Mr. Ron MacMicken, Mr. Andrew DeFrancesco, Mr. Gerry Feldman, Mr. Steve VanSickle and Mr. Doug Manner to the board of directors. The shareholders also confirmed the appointment of MNP LLP as the Company's auditor.

Forward Looking Statements - Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of Quetzal, including, but not limited to the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, volatility of commodity prices, risks associated with oil and gas activities, currency fluctuations, dependence upon regulatory approvals, the availability of future financing and exploration risk. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.


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Changed Number of Outstanding Shares in BlackPearl

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - Aug. 30, 2013) - BlackPearl Resources Inc. (the "Company") (TSX:PXX)(OMX:PXXS) -

As a result of the exercise of options, the total number of shares and votes in the Company has changed during August 2013 as follows.

The number of shares has increased by 77,500 and the total number of shares and votes in the Company as of August 30, 2013 is 296,299,808.

The above information has been made public in accordance with the Swedish Financial Instruments Trading Act.


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Alvopetro Announces Second Quarter 2013 Financial and Operating Results

Alvopetro Inc.

Alvopetro Inc.

CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwired - Aug. 29, 2013) -

THIS NEWS RELEASE IS NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR TO ANY UNITED STATES NEWS SERVICES.

Alvopetro Inc. ("Alvopetro" or the "Company") today announces its financial and operating results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2013. The Company's financial statements and management's discussion and analysis for the three and six months ended June 30, 2013 are available on the Company's website (www.alvopetro.com) or SEDAR (www.sedar.com).

Financial and Operating Summary
($000's except per share amounts)Funds from (used in) operations (1)Working capital (deficiency) (1)Operating netback (1) ($/Mcfe)The terms "funds from operations", "operating netback" and "working capital" are not recognized measures under IFRS. Management believes that in addition to net income, funds from operations and operating netback are useful supplemental measures as they provide an indication of the results generated by the Company's principal business activities before the consideration of how those activities are financed. Investors are cautioned, however, that these measures should not be construed as alternatives to net income determined in accordance with IFRS. The Company's method of calculating funds from operations may differ from that of other companies, and, accordingly it may not be comparable to measures used by other companies. The Company calculates funds from operations by taking cash flow from operating activities as determined under IFRS before changes in non-cash operating working capital and abandonment expenditures. Operating netback is calculated on a per Mcfe basis taking natural gas sales and deducting royalties, operating expenses and transportation expenses. Working capital is calculated as current assets less current liabilities.

Corporate Highlights

The following are the highlights for the quarter:

In June, the Company completed the first two tranches of a $5,000,000 non-brokered private placement, raising proceeds of $1,937,000 through the issuance of 7,746,000 common shares at a price of $0.25 per share. In addition, the Company issued $200,000 of convertible debentures in April. The proceeds will be used to augment the Company's unallocated working capital and finance its operations in Brazil.

In May, Alvopetro S.A. completed the farm-in agreements for blocks 170 and 183 in the Recôncavo Basin. Both blocks are contiguous with Alvopetro S.A.'s existing acreage and offer the same tight-oil potential on trend with the Gomo member of the Candeias Formation. The acquisitions are subject to approval by the Agencia Nacional do Petróleo, Gás Natural e Biocombustíveis of Brazil (the "ANP").

In May, Alvopetro S.A. participated in the Brazilian 11th Bid Round, administered by the ANP, and successfully bid and was awarded Block REC-T 107 in the Recôncavo Basin. The block is comprised of 7,561 acres located in the southern portion of the Recôncavo Basin, near Alvopetro S.A.'s Bom Lugar field and will be subject to an ANP contract which is expected to be finalized in August 2013. The first phase work commitment consists of drilling two wells.

Natural Gas, Crude Oil and Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) Conversions

Certain crude oil and NGL volumes have been converted to cubic feet equivalent (cfe) on the basis of one barrel (bbl) to six thousand cubic feet (Mcf). Cfe may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A conversion ratio of one bbl to six Mcf is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent value equivalency at the well head.

Caution to Reader

This news release contains forward-looking information, including without limitation statements concerning the acquisition of the exploration blocks, the planned drilling program, and the ability to continue as a going concern. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable by Alvopetro at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect. The actual results achieved in future periods will vary from the information provided herein and the variations may be material.

The common shares of Alvopetro have not and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to any U.S. person except in certain transactions exempt from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. The common shares of Alvopetro have not and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to any U.S. person except in certain transactions exempt from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws.


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Alexander Energy Ltd. Announces Proposed Private Placement of Common Shares

CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwired - Aug. 29, 2013) - Alexander Energy Ltd. ("Alexander" or the "Company") (TSX VENTURE:ALX) announced today its intention to complete a non-brokered private placement offering of common shares at a price of $0.15 per share, for gross proceeds of up to $1,300,000.

The closing of the offering is expected to occur on or about September 16, 2013 and is subject to regulatory approval, including approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. For further details on the offering, please contact the Company. The common shares issued in connection with the offering will be subject to a hold period of four months from the date of closing. The net proceeds from the offering will be used for general working capital purposes.

Forward-Looking Statements: This news release may contain certain forward-looking information. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, is forward-looking information and such information involves various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. A description of assumptions used to develop such forward-looking information and a description of risk factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking information can be found in the company's disclosure documents on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com. The company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To receive Press Releases and Corporate Updates directly via email send your email address to info@alexanderenergy.ca.


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Divestco Reports Q2 2013 Results

CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwired - Aug. 29, 2013) - (TSX VENTURE:DVT) - Divestco Inc. ("Divestco" or the "Company") announces its operating results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2013.

Three Months Ended June 30, 2013

Divestco had a net loss of $2.2 million for the second quarter of 2013 ($0.03 per share - basic and diluted) compared to net income of $0.9 million ($0.01 per share - basic and diluted) for the same period in 2012. The loss in Q2 2013 was primarily due to the Company recognizing a $1 million accounting loss from the disposal of certain data library assets and a $0.7 million impairment of leasehold improvements (net of tenant inducements) associated with the surrender of office space in the quarter. Excluding the non-cash loss and impairment, the net loss for Q1 2013 would have been $0.5 million.

The Company generated revenue of $7.1 million in Q1 2013 compared to $11.5 million in Q2 2012, a decrease of $4.4 million (38%). Revenue in the Software and Data segment increased by $1 million (48%) related to a significant software license sale. Revenue in the Seismic Data segment decreased by $4 million (79%) due to lower industry activities and corresponding revenue in the Services segment also decreased by $1.3 million (32%) with geomatics, processing and land management services all experiencing weaker than normal demand as compared to Q2 2012.

Operating expenses (excluding depreciation and amortization) decreased by $1.3 million (17%) to $5.9 million in Q2 2013 from $7.2 million in Q2 2012. Salaries and wages were down $0.5 million (12%). G&A expenses were down $0.6 million (22%) due to lower occupancy costs as the Company surrendered a floor of office space effective January 1, 2013 and another floor effective June 1, 2013. In addition, stock-based compensation, professional fees, and bad debt expenses were lower than 2012. Depreciation and amortization decreased by $1.6 million (52%) mainly due to lower depreciation on seismic data as the Company completed a seismic program in Q2 2012 but did not acquire any new data in Q2 2013.

Excluding the non-cash accounting loss and impairment of $1.7 million, EBITDA was $1.1 million in Q2 2013, a $3.2 million (74%) decrease from $4.3 million for the same period in 2012. The Company generated funds from operations of $1.2 million ($0.02 per share - basic and diluted) for the second quarter of 2013, compared to $4.3 million ($0.06 per share - basic and diluted) for the same period in 2012, a decrease of $3.1 million (73%) primarily due to a lower volume of services and seismic data activities.

Six Months Ended June 30, 2013

Divestco had a net loss of $0.1 million for the first six months of 2013 ($nil per share - basic and diluted) compared to net income of $3.6 million ($0.05 per share - basic and diluted) for the same period in 2012. Excluding the loss and impairment, the Company would have had net income of $1.5 million ($0.02 per share - basic and diluted) for the six months ended June 30, 2013.

The Company generated revenue of $18.7 million compared to $25.9 million in 2012, a decrease of $7.2 million (26%). Revenue in the Software and Data segment increased by $1.1 million (28%) related to a significant software license sale. Revenue in the Seismic Data segment decreased by $4.6 million (39%) which was primarily due to lower speculative survey revenue and seismic data management revenue. Revenue in the Services segment decreased by $3.7 million (38%) with geomatics, processing and land management services all experiencing weaker demand as compared to 2012.

Operating expenses (excluding depreciation and amortization) decreased by $1.6 million (11%) to $12.6 million in for the first six months of 2013 from $14.2 million during the same period in 2012. Salaries and wages were down $1 million (11%) and G&A expenses were down $0.6 million (14%) due to lower occupancy costs as the Company surrendered a floor of office space effective January 1, 2013 and another floor effective June 1, 2013. In addition, stock-based compensation, professional fees, and bad debt expenses were lower than 2012. Depreciation and amortization decreased by $4.1 million (50%) mainly due to lower depreciation on seismic data as the Company acquired more data in 2012 as compared to 2013.

Excluding the non-cash accounting loss and impairment of $1.7 million, EBITDA was $6.1 million in the first six months of 2013, a $5.6 million (48%) decrease from $11.7 million for the same period in 2012. The Company generated funds from operations of $6.4 million ($0.10 per share - basic and diluted) in the first half of 2013, compared to $11.5 million ($0.17 per share - basic and diluted) for the same period in 2012, a decrease of $5.1 million (44%) primarily due to a lower volume of services and seismic data activities.

Liquidity and Working Capital

On May 9, 2013, the Company announced it had closed a new senior credit facility of up to $11 million. The Company also received $1 million in new shareholder loans just prior to the closing of the new facility. The proceeds were used to retire bank and subordinated debt totaling approximately $6 million. The facility has an expanded operating line ($8 million as compared to $5 million under its previous facility) based on receivables aged less than 90 days and $3 million in term debt as well as a financial covenant that is better suited to the Company's business.

Management ensures that Divestco's credit facilities, combined with its working capital and funds from operations, will be sufficient in the short-term and long-term to meet planned growth and to fund future capital expenditures.

Divestco ended Q2 2013 with positive working capital of $0.7 million (December 31, 2012: $7.5 million deficit), excluding deferred revenue of $3.4 million (December 31, 2012 - $2.4 million). The improvement in working capital from the end of 2012 was primarily due to a number of data transactions completed in the first six months of 2013 offset by an unpredictably slow period for the services segment. As a result of closing these data deals, the Company has significantly reduced its payables since the end of 2012. The Company's funded debt to equity ratio was 0.66:1 at June 30, 2013 compared to 0.64:1 at December 31, 2012.

Financial Position (Thousands)Long-Term Financial Liabilities (2)Excludes the current portion of deferred revenue of $3.4 million (December 31, 2012: $2.4 million; December 31, 2011: $4.6 million).Includes long-term debt obligations, deferred rent obligations, sublease loss provision and other long-term liabilities. The long-term debt obligations are comprised of the Company's subordinated debt, shareholder loans and finance leases.

Operations Update

In June, 2013, the Company subscribed for 500,000 shares of a newly incorporated entity in exchange for $0.2 million in cash and a portion of its well data library that was transferred to the new entity with a fair value of $0.3 million for a total investment of $0.5 million. Concurrently, two private companies (dealing at arm's length with the Company) subscribed for 1 million shares for $1 million in cash. As a result each company became a 1/3 shareholder of the new entity. Immediately thereafter, the Company granted a software license to the new entity for $1.2 million. The Company recognized $0.8 million of revenue on this transaction after eliminating the Company's share in the new entity. The new entity has granted each shareholder a data licence for $250,000 per annum payable on a monthly basis. As a result of the non-monetary contribution made by the Company, an accounting loss on disposal of $1 million was recognized for the difference between the net book value and fair value of the assets contributed.

During the first six months of 2013, the Company completed a 3D seismic participation survey, covering an area of approximately 93 square kilometers.

Mr. Stephen Popadynetz, CEO commented: "Divestco returned to positive working capital in Q2 2013 through the restructuring of its debt, commitment to cost control and realizing the value of its assets. Despite a weak industry in the first half of 2013, our seismic inventory sales and software sales in the first six months of 2013 remained strong. As well, despite the softness in our Services group as we entered 2013, we are seeing increased activity levels which should result in improved results going forward. Our efforts to expand into international markets are expected to result in increased revenue in 2013. Additionally, our Software group is rapidly developing new products which are about to hit the marketplace and we believe will lead to significant growth later this year. With all of these positive growth catalysts, we remain optimistic that Divestco will continue to strengthen its balance sheet."

Non-GAAP Measures

The Company's condensed consolidated interim financial statements have been prepared in accordance with IFRS. Certain measures in this document do not have any standardized meaning as prescribed by IFRS and are considered additional GAAP measures. While these measures may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers, they are described and presented in this MD&A to provide shareholders and potential investors with additional information regarding the Company's results, liquidity, and its ability to generate funds to finance its operations. These measures include:

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA")

Divestco uses EBITDA as a key measure to evaluate the performance of its segments and divisions as well as the Company overall, with the closest IFRS measure being net income or loss. EBITDA is a measure commonly reported and widely used by investors as indicators of the Company's operating performance and ability to incur and service debt, and as a valuation metric. The Company believes EBITDA assists investors in comparing the Company's performance on a consistent basis without regard to financing decisions and depreciation and amortization, which are non-cash in nature and can vary significantly depending upon accounting methods or non-operating factors such as historical cost.

EBITDA is not a calculation based on IFRS and should not be considered an alternative to net income or loss in measuring the Company's performance. As well, EBITDA should not be used as an exclusive measure of cash flow, because it does not consider the impact of working capital growth, capital expenditures, debt principal reductions and other sources and uses of cash, which are disclosed in the consolidated statements of cash flows. While EBITDA has been disclosed herein to permit a more complete comparative analysis of the Company's operating performance and debt servicing ability relative to other companies, investors should be cautioned that EBITDA as reported by Divestco may not be comparable in all instances to EBITDA as reported by other companies. Investors should also carefully consider the specific items included in Divestco's computation of EBITDA.

The following is a reconciliation of EBITDA with net income (loss):

Working capital

Working Capital is calculated as current assets minus current liabilities (excluding deferred revenue). Working capital provides a measure that can be used to gauge Divestco's ability to meet its current obligations.

Additional GAAP Measure

Funds from operations

Divestco reports funds from operations because it is a key measure used by management to evaluate its performance and to assess the ability of the Company to finance operating and investing activities. Funds from operations excludes certain working capital changes and other sources and uses of cash, which are disclosed in the consolidated statements of cash flows.

Funds from operations is not a calculation based on IFRS and should not be considered an alternative to the consolidated statements of cash flows. Funds from operations is a measure that can be used to gauge Divestco's capacity to generate discretionary cash flow. Investors should be cautioned that funds from operations as reported by Divestco may not be comparable in all instances to funds from operations as reported by other companies. While the closest IFRS measure is cash from operating activities, funds from operations is considered relevant because it provides an indication of how much cash generated by operations is available before proceeds from divested assets and changes in certain working capital items.

The following reconciles funds from operations with cash from operating activities:

Cash from Operating ActivitiesChanges in Non-Cash Working Capital Balances Related to Operating ActivitiesFinancial Results (Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)Income (Loss) before Income TaxesWeighted Average Shares OutstandingThree months ended June 30, 2013 (Thousands)Income (loss) before income taxesLoss on Disposal of Intangibles and Impairment of Property and EquipmentThree months ended June 30, 2012 (Thousands)Income (loss) before income taxesSix months ended June 30, 2013 (Thousands)Income (loss) before income taxesLoss on Disposal of Intangibles and Impairment of Property and EquipmentSix months ended June 30, 2012 (Thousands)Income (loss) before income taxes

Divestco Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Financial Position

Prepaid expenses, supplies and depositsInvestment in affiliated companyParticipation surveys in progressLiabilities and Shareholders' EquityAccounts payable and accrued liabilitiesCurrent loss on sublease loss provisionCurrent portion of long-term debt obligationsCurrent portion of tenant inducementTotal liabilities and shareholders' equity
Divestco Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income

(Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts - Unaudited)Net income (loss) and comprehensive income (loss) for the periodWeighted average number of shares

Divestco Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Changes in Equity

Reduction of stated capital and deficitNet income (loss) and comprehensive income (loss) for the periodTransactions with owners, recorded in equity contributions by and distributions to owners:Issuance of Class A common shares as service
awardsIssuance of Class A common shares on exercise of PSUsReclassification on exercise of PSUsNet income (loss) and comprehensive income (loss) for the periodTransactions with owners, recorded in equity contributions by and distributions to owners:Issuance of Class A common shares as service awards

Divestco Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Cash Flows

Cash from (used in) operating activitiesNet income (loss) for the periodAmortization of tenant inducementsLoss on disposal of intangiblesImpairment of property and equipmentUnrealized foreign exchange lossChanges in non-cash working capital balancesNet cash from operating activitiesCash from (used in) financing activitiesRepayment of long-term debt obligationsProceeds received from long-term debt obligations (net of committedNet cash from (used in) financing activitiesCash from (used in) investing activitiesAdditions to intangible assetsDecrease in participation surveys in progressPurchase of property and equipmentPayments towards sublease loss provisionAdvances from equity-accounted investeesChanges in non-cash working capital balancesNet cash from (used in) investing activities

About the Company

Divestco is an exploration services company that provides a comprehensive and integrated portfolio of data, software, and services to the oil and gas industry. Through continued commitment to align and bundle products and services to generate value for customers, Divestco is creating an unparalleled set of integrated solutions and unique benefits for the marketplace. Divestco's breadth of data, software and services offers customers the ability to access and analyze the information required to make business decisions and to optimize their success in the upstream oil and gas industry. Divestco is headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "DVT".

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

This press release contains forward-looking information related to the Company's capital expenditures, projected growth, view and outlook with respect to future oil and gas prices and market conditions, and demand for its products and services. Statements that contain words such as "could', "should", "can", "anticipate", "expect", "believe", "will", "may" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning applicable by Canadian securities legislation. Although management of the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct because, should one or more of the risks materialize, or should the assumptions underlying forward-looking statements or forward-looking information prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in this press release as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. All of the forward-looking statements and forward-looking information of the Company contained in this press release are expressly qualified, in their entirety, by this cautionary statement. Except where required by law, the Company does not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements or forward-looking information if conditions or opinions should change.

In particular, this press release contains forward-looking statements pertaining to the following: Company's ability to keep debt and liquidity at acceptable levels, improve/maintain its working capital position and maintain profitability in the current economy; availability of external and internal funding for future operations; relative future competitive position of the Company; nature and timing of growth; oil and natural gas production levels; planned capital expenditure programs; supply and demand for oil and natural gas; future demand for products/services; commodity prices; impact of Canadian federal and provincial governmental regulation on the Company; expected levels of operating costs, finance costs and other costs and expenses; future ability to execute acquisitions and dispositions of assets or businesses; expectations regarding the Company's ability to raise capital and to add to seismic data through new seismic shoots and acquisition of existing seismic data; treatment under tax laws; and new accounting pronouncements.

These forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions including: future prices for crude oil and natural gas; future interest rates and future availability of debt and equity financing will be at levels and costs that allow the Company to manage, operate and finance its business and develop its software products and various oil and gas datasets including its seismic data library, and meet its future obligations; the regulatory framework in respect of royalties, taxes and environmental matters applicable to the Company and its customers will not become so onerous on both the Company and its customers as to preclude the Company and its customers from viably managing, operating and financing its business and the development of its software and data; and that the Company will continue to be able to identify, attract and employ qualified staff and obtain the outside expertise as well as specialized and other equipment it requires to manage, operate and finance its business and develop its properties.

These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the Company's control, including: general economic, market and business conditions; volatility in market prices for crude oil and natural gas; ability of Divestco's clients to explore for, develop and produce oil and gas; availability of financing and capital; fluctuations in interest rates; demand for the Company's product and services; weather and climate conditions; competitive actions by other companies; availability of skilled labour; failure to obtain regulatory approvals in a timely manner; adverse conditions in the debt and equity markets; and government actions including changes in environment and other regulation.


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WesternZagros Announces Second Quarter 2013 Operational and Financial Results

CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwired - Aug. 29, 2013) -

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

WesternZagros Resources Ltd. (TSX VENTURE:WZR) ("WesternZagros" or "the Company") announced today its operating and financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2013, and additional key highlights and activities to date. A summary of the activities, the financial statements the accompanying Management Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") are available at www.westernzagros.com and on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Commenting on the second quarter results and subsequent events, WesternZagros's Chief Executive Officer, Simon Hatfield said,

"We're continuing testing in the Kurdamir-3 well to provide valuable information on the Kurdamir Discovery as we progress towards commerciality and to help us plan future well locations. In addition, our two Garmian wells, Baram-1 and Hasira-1, are drilling with completion anticipated in late Q4 2013 and early Q1 2014, respectively. Hasira-1 will help us in our development plans for our Sarqala Discovery. The timing of declaration of commerciality and submission of development plans are actively in discussion with our partners and will represent a major step for our Company. We have also completed our first 3D seismic program at Sarqala and the second, our North Garmian, is underway. This is a busy year for WesternZagros."

Exploration and Appraisal Operations - Kurdamir Block

Testing of the Oligocene reservoir in the Kurdamir-3 well is ongoing with final results anticipated in late third quarter 2013 or early fourth quarter 2014. As operator of the Kurdamir-3 well, Talisman (Block K44) B.V. ("Talisman") has conducted two DSTs in the deepest zones of the Oligocene reservoir at Kurdamir-3. Log and sample analysis obtained from testing to date has warranted the testing of two other intervals in the upper zones of the Oligocene reservoir. Interim test results from Kurdamir-3 have increased the risk associated with the undiscovered Prospective Resource assessment that the Company carries for the Kurdamir Oligocene reservoir. The acquisition of the Kurdamir Block 3D seismic survey, which comprised 184 square kilometers, has been completed in order to define more clearly the areal extent of the Oligocene, Eocene and Cretaceous reservoirs. Processing and interpretation of the data are currently underway with completion anticipated in the first quarter of 2014. The results will be utilized to select the location of the Kurdamir-4 well to further appraise the extent of the oil discovery in the Oligocene reservoir.

Exploration and Appraisal Operations - Garmian Block

The Baram-1 well was spudded on August 13, 2013 and is preparing to drill ahead after setting 20 inch casing at 816 metres. This well is exploring whether the Baram structure is a separate structure from Kurdamir or a potential extension of the oil leg discovered in the Oligocene reservoir of the Kurdamir structure onto the northern portion of the Garmian Block. The Company expects the well to be drilled to planned total depth of 3,800 metres by the end of 2013. If successful (the extension is confirmed and it is oil bearing) the Company believes that this could be the highest impact well of the 2013 drilling program, with the potential to add substantial contingent resources in both the Garmian Block and in the Kurdamir Block. The interim results of Kurdamir-3 testing increase the risk associated with the undiscovered Prospective resource assessment for the Baram-1 well. Alternatively, the Baram structure may be separated from the Kurdamir structure by a fault, in which case the Kurdamir-3 well results have no material impact on the chance of success of Baram-1. The Hasira-1 appraisal and exploration well is currently drilling ahead at 2,886 metres after setting 16 inch casing at 2,047 metres. The next casing point is planned for approximately 3,900 metres just above the Jeribe reservoir. The well is planned to drill to a total depth of approximately 4,100 metres in the Oligocene reservoir. WesternZagros plans to complete the well either in the Jeribe or the Oligocene reservoir depending on testing results. Hasira-1 is anticipated to be completed in late fourth quarter 2013 or early first quarter 2014. The acquisition phase of the 2D seismic survey over the Chwar and Alyan prospects and the 3D seismic survey over the Sarqala and Mil Qasim oil discoveries and the Zardi Complex prospect was completed on April 8, 2013, on time and on budget. Processing and interpretation of the data are currently underway and expected to be completed in the fourth quarter, 2013. The acquisition phase of the 3D seismic survey over the northern portion of the Garmian block commenced on August 6, 2013 in order to define more clearly the areal extent of the Baram and Qulijan structures. Acquisition is anticipated to be completed in the third quarter with processing and interpretation completed by the end of the year. The Company is also beginning to prepare for future exploration wells, with the Qulijan well site prepared and long lead items ordered. Preliminary interpretation and technical evaluations are underway of the Chwar Prospect in the southwest of the Garmian Block, the Alyan Prospect in the west of the Block and the Qula Prospect on the southeast of the Block, Qula is in close proximity to Genel Energy plc's Chia Surkh oil discovery on the adjacent block. The Company will determine its 2014 drilling program in the fourth quarter 2013.

Planning and Development (Garmian and Kurdamir Blocks)

Design work is underway on future development plans for the WesternZagros oil discoveries in the Sarqala and Kurdamir areas. On the Garmian Block, the preliminary engineering design of the Sarqala-1 first phase central processing facility with 20,000 bbl/d capacity is advancing. WesternZagros is in active discussions with its co-venturer Gazprom Neft Middle East B.V. ("Gazprom Neft") regarding the timing of the Declaration of Commerciality for the Sarqala discovery. WesternZagros and Gazprom Neft have formed a dedicated team to plan the phased development of the Sarqala Discovery. On the Kurdamir Block, Talisman has staffed a dedicated team which has commenced development planning and the joint venture has created a sub-committee to focus on designing the development plan for the Kurdamir Discovery. Subject to the extended test results from the Kurdamir-3 well and the interpretation of the 3D seismic, the Kurdamir Joint Venture is contemplating a Declaration of Commerciality for the Kurdamir structure by the second quarter of 2014. The Company and its co-venturers continue discussions with the Kurdistan Regional Government ("KRG") to advance plans for the utilization of natural gas from both the Garmian and Kurdamir Blocks. Gas conservation studies are ongoing for pipeline routing, gas re-injection options to maximize oil recovery, and options for temporary and permanent power generation.

Financing

On April 4, 2013 the Company completed a marketed private placement of 11,431,422 common shares with Crest Energy International LLC ("Crest") of Houston, USA, and Jasmine Capital (a wholly-owned subsidiary of Richard Chandler Corporation) at Cdn$1.25 per common share for gross proceeds of $14.1 million. This followed the non-brokered private placement of 51 million common shares at Cdn$1.25 per common share and the entering of a loan agreement with Crest for $57.5 million. The net proceeds of the marketed private placement of $13.5 million were used to repay $13.3 million of the principal amount of the loan from Crest plus $0.2 million of accrued interest. On June 18, 2013, the Company completed a non-brokered private placement of Cdn$70 million aggregate principal amount of 4.00% Convertible Senior Unsecured Notes of WesternZagros ("Convertible Notes") to investment funds managed by Paulson & Co. Inc. Effective June 28, 2013 the Company completed a second non-brokered private placement of Cdn$30 million aggregate principal amount of Convertible Notes. A portion of the proceeds from the private placements were used to repay the remaining Crest debt of $44.5 million plus accrued interest as per the terms of the loan agreement with the balance to be used to fund the Company's capital and operating activities. All of the Convertible Notes issued in the second quarter of 2013 have a face value of Cdn$1,000 per note, a coupon of 4 percent per annum, a maturity date of December 31, 2015 and are convertible into common shares of the Company ("Common Shares") at the option of the holder at a conversion price of Cdn$1.45 per share (subject to adjustment in certain events), representing a conversion premium of approximately 27 percent to the thirty day average price for the Common Shares prior to issuance of the Convertible Notes. As at June 30, 2013, WesternZagros had $167.4 million in working capital, excluding the $16.9 million additional non-current portion of the deposit held in trust pertaining to the drilling contract. The Company is fully funded for its currently planned activities.

Corporate

The Company is considering the optimal timing to pursue admittance to the Standard Listing segment of the Official List of the London Stock Exchange ("LSE") in order to provide access to an alternate market with a strong understanding of the Middle East and particularly Kurdistan focused companies. On June 3, 2013, Ms. Mary Benassi was appointed to the position of Vice President Human Resources with responsibility for WesternZagros's overall Human Resources function.

Outlook

In accordance with the Kurdamir and Garmian PSCs, the end of the exploration periods are September 1, 2014 and December 31, 2014, respectively, after which the development periods begin. On the Kurdamir Block, the Company's focus will continue to delineate the existing 943 MMBOE of unrisked gross contingent resources (combined mean estimate ("Gross Mean Contingent Resources") and an estimated 1.6 billion BOE of unrisked gross prospective resources (combined mean estimate) ("Gross Mean Prospective Resources"). On the Garmian Block, the Company's focus will be on exploration and appraisal drilling to delineate the following estimated Gross Mean Prospective Resources: 527 MMBOE on the Baram prospect and 463 MMBOE on the Sarqala Discovery. In addition, WesternZagros's work program on the Garmian Block over the next 18 months will also include exploration activities to rank, prioritize and drill the highest ranked additional prospects prior to the end of the exploration period. This ranking will be based on the results of the North and South Garmian Seismic Programs (2D and 3D), the 2013 drilling results from the Company's planned wells on the Garmian and Kurdamir Blocks and other operators' well results on neighbouring blocks. Possible prospects for future exploration drilling in 2014 include Qulijan, Qula, Chwar, and Alyan. At the same time, the Company has started discussions with its respective co-venturers with respect to timing of declaring commerciality and submitting development plans. Subject to the completion of the exploration and appraisal programs, WesternZagros anticipates issuing Declarations of Commerciality before the end of the Exploration period on the Kurdamir and Garmian Blocks of September 1, 2014 and December 31, 2014, respectively.

Kurdamir Block

The Company continues to work with the operator, Talisman, to appraise the giant Kurdamir discovery. Activities in the second half of 2013 will focus on further testing at Kurdamir-3, the processing and interpretation of the 3D seismic, analysis and integration into reservoir models of the data from Kurdamir-3 acquired to date (including cores, log data, oil samples, and water samples), and the preparation and planning required for a declaration of commerciality in 2014 and the start of field development. The remaining tests at Kurdamir-3 will be conducted on the upper part of porous zone of the Oligocene reservoir which was oil-bearing in Kurdamir-2 and which is more than 87 meters below the depths of the gas-oil contact as seen in Kurdamir-2. This testing is anticipated to be completed early in the fourth quarter.

Planned expenditures for the remainder of 2013 include approximately $12-$17 million for the Kurdamir-3 testing program (including the costs of DST#1 and #2 estimated at $7-8 million), $4 million for the remainder of Kurdamir 3D seismic program and processing costs, and $4-8 million for preparation and planning for declaration of commerciality and field development. Contingent projects during 2013 may also include $9 million for a potential Kurdamir-3 sidetrack.

Garmian Block

Sarqala-1 Extended Well Test ("EWT")

WesternZagros expects to recommence the EWT at Sarqala upon KRG approval to gain additional information in order to appraise the discovery for future development. Upon receipt of KRG approval, and the procurement of a suitable rig and tubular equipment, the Company also plans to complete a workover of the Sarqala-1 well in the first half of 2014 in order to allow future EWT production capability to increase beyond the current 5,000 bbl/d. Long lead items have been ordered for this workover.

Engineering work is also underway for permanent facilities to increase EWT production capability at Sarqala including gas conservation measures. In particular, preliminary engineering design of the Sarqala first phase permanent facilities with 20,000 bbl/d capacity is underway in readiness to request engineering procurement and construction tenders at the appropriate time. Work is continuing on opportunities to utilize the associated natural gas from any future crude oil production to minimize the flaring of natural gas.

Hasira-1 Exploration and Appraisal Well

The Hasira-1 appraisal and exploration well was spudded on June 6, 2013 and is currently drilling ahead at 2,886 metres after setting 16 inch casing at 2,047 metres. WesternZagros plans to complete the well either in the Jeribe or the Oligocene reservoir depending on drilling and testing results. Hasira-1 will appraise the extent of the oil leg previously encountered in the Jeribe reservoir, targeting 25-50 MMBOE of Gross Mean Prospective Resources, at the Sarqala-1 well and also to explore the deeper Oligocene reservoir, targeting a further 25-50 MMBOE of Gross Mean Prospective Resources. Significant oil shows were encountered in the Oligocene interval at Sarqala-1 but the Company was unable to evaluate them at that due to wellbore conditions. The Company expects Hasira-1 to take approximately seven months to drill.

Baram-1 Exploration Well

The Baram-1 well was spudded on August 13, 2013 to explore the potential extension of the oil leg discovered in the Oligocene reservoir of the Kurdamir structure onto the northern portion of the Garmian Block. The Company expects the well to reach the planned total depth of 3,800 metres by the end of 2013. If successful and it is oil bearing, the Company believes that this could be the highest impact well of the 2013 drilling program with the potential to add substantial contingent resources in both the Garmian Block and in the Kurdamir Block. The interim results of Kurdamir-3 testing increase the risk associated with the undiscovered Prospective resource assessment for the Baram-1 well. Alternatively, the Baram structure may be separated from the Kurdamir structure by a fault, in which case the Kurdamir-3 well results have no material impact on the chance of success of Baram-1.

The completion of either Baram-1 or Hasira-1 in 2013 would fulfill the Company's obligations under the second exploration sub-period of the Garmian PSC, prior to any extension of such sub-period.

Garmian Seismic Programs

WesternZagros has completed the acquisition phase of a 3D seismic appraisal survey over the Sarqala, Mil Qasim and adjacent Zardi Complex structures as well as the 2D seismic survey at the Chwar and Alyan prospects which are to the north and west-northwest of Sarqala to elevate these low risk, Jeribe oil opportunities to drill ready status. The Company will utilize the 3D information to optimize the number and placement of future appraisal and development well, improve its understanding of fracturing within these structures and further evaluate the Jeribe, Oligocene, Eocene and Cretaceous reservoirs on the southern portion of the Block.

The Company is conducting a 3D seismic program in the second half of 2013 over the northern portion of the Garmian Block targeting the Baram and Qulijan structures utilizing the seismic crew from the Kurdamir/Tophkana program. The 3D data over Baram will assist in determining whether Baram is an extension of the existing Kurdamir Oligocene discovery or a separate structure.

Planned expenditures for the remainder of 2013 include $20 million for the Hasira-1 well, $20 million for the Baram-1 well $4 million for the Sarqala planning and predevelopment activities, $ million for long leads for future wells, $10 million for the planned North Garmian 3D seismic program and $3 million for other costs.

This news release contains certain forward-looking information relating, but not limited, to operational information, future drilling and testing plans, seismic programs and the timing and costs associated therewith. Forward-looking information typically contains statements with words such as "anticipate", "plan", "estimate", "expect", "potential", "could", or similar words suggesting future outcomes. The Company cautions readers not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information as by its nature, it is based on current expectations regarding future events that involve a number of assumptions, inherent risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by WesternZagros. In addition, the forward-looking information is made as of the date hereof, and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise such to reflect new events or circumstances, except as required by law.

Forward-looking information is not based on historical facts but rather on management's current expectations and assumptions regarding, among other things, plans for and results of drilling activity and testing programs, future capital and other expenditures (including the amount, nature and sources of funding thereof), continued political stability, and timely receipt of any necessary government or regulatory approvals. Although the Company believes the expectations and assumptions reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, they may prove to be incorrect. Forward-looking information involves significant known and unknown risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by WesternZagros including, but not limited to, risks associated with the oil and gas industry (e.g. operational risks in exploration; inherent uncertainties in interpreting geological data; changes in plans with respect to exploration or capital expenditures; interruptions in operations together with any associated insurance proceedings; the uncertainty of estimates and projections in relation to costs and expenses and health, safety and environmental risks), the risk of commodity price and foreign exchange rate fluctuations, the uncertainty associated with negotiating with foreign governments and risk associated with international activity. For further information on WesternZagros and the risks associated with its business, please see the Company's Annual Information Form dated March 22, 2013, which is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

In addition, statements relating to "resources" contained herein are deemed to be forward-looking statements, as they involve the implied assessment, based on certain estimates and assumptions that the resources described can be economically produced in the future. Terms related to resource classifications referred to herein are based on the definitions and guidelines in the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook which are as follows. "Prospective resources" are those quantities of petroleum estimated, as of a given date, to be potentially recoverable from undiscovered accumulations by application of future development projects. Prospective resources have both an associated chance of discovery (geological chance of success) and a chance of development (economic, regulatory, market, facility, corporate commitment or political risks). The chance of commerciality is the product of these two risk components. The estimates referred to herein have not been risked for either the chance of discovery or the chance of development. There is no certainty that any portion of the prospective resources will be discovered. If a discovery is made, there is no certainty that it will be developed or, if it is developed, there is no certainty as to the timing of such development or that it will be commercially viable to produce any portion of the prospective resources. "Contingent resources" are those quantities of petroleum estimated, as of a given date, to be potentially recoverable from known accumulations using established technology or technology under development, but which are not currently considered to be commercially recoverable due to one or more contingencies. Contingent resources have an associated chance of development (economic, regulatory, market and facility, corporate commitment or political risks). The estimates referred to herein have not been risked for the chance of development.

There is no certainty that the contingent resources will be developed and, if developed, there is no certainty as to the timing of such development or that it will be commercially viable to produce any portion of the contingent resources. All resource estimates presented are gross volumes for the indicated reservoirs, without any adjustment for the Company's working interest or encumbrances. A barrel of oil equivalent (BOE) is determined by converting a volume of natural gas to barrels using the ratio of 6 million cubic feet (Mcf) to one barrel. BOEs may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A BOE conversion ratio of 6 Mcf:1 BOE is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. Given that the value ratio based on the current price of oil as compared to natural gas is significantly different from the energy equivalency of 6:1, utilizing a conversion on a 6:1 basis may be misleading as an indication of value. The Company's Statement of Oil and Gas Information contained in its Annual Information Form dated March 22, 2013 ("AIF") filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com contains additional detail with respect to the resource assessments and includes the significant risks and uncertainties associated with the estimates and the recovery and development of the resources, and, in respect of contingent resources, the specific contingencies which prevent the classification of the resources as reserves. In addition, combined mean estimates of resources which are presented in this MD&A are an arithmetic sum of the mean estimates for individual reservoirs and each such individual mean estimate is the average from the probabilistic assessment that was completed for the reservoir. Readers should refer to the AIF for a detailed breakdown of the high (P10), low (P90) and best (P50) estimates for each of the individual reservoir assessments.

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

WESTERNZAGROS RESOURCES WAS RECOGNIZED AS A TSX VENTURE 50® COMPANY IN 2012 AND 2013. TSX VENTURE 50 IS A TRADE-MARK OF TSX INC. AND IS USED UNDER LICENSE.


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