Ann: Norwest increases its stake in Northern Pert, page-11

re: Ann: Norwest increases its stake in North... i would say you're spot-on markob!

it seems like a large amount to outlay without the aid of either a cap raise or a big boy on the side, who perhaps had a clause for a minimum amount of acreage, make it worth their while etc

Since we know that they are already in negotiations, that would seem the logically reason for the recent purchases.