The Directors of Hughes Drilling Limited announced the retirement of Mr. Robert Hackett as a Director and the Chairman of Hughes. Mr. Hackett has made important and lasting contributions to the evolution of the Company. Following the retirement of Mr. Hackett, the Directors are announced the temporary appointment of Mr. Bob Hughes as the new Chairman of the company.

Mr. Hughes will hold office as the Chairman until such time as a non-executive, independent director is appointed to that position.