News Release

Softrock Minerals Ltd. has been reinstated for trading commencing Tuesday, December 24, 2002 following a cease-trading Order issued as a result of the Corporation's failure to file proper third quarter financials by the November 30, 2002 deadline. The Corporation attributes the problem to a faulty or "corrupt" computer disk. Softrock continues to evaluate both hydrocarbon and metallic exploration opportunities in Canada and elsewhere but is primarily focused on oil and gas properties until investor interest in the mining area has improved. The 2002 AGM delays and cancellations were a result of certain transactions that the Corporation was pursuing that were subsequently withdrawn from further consideration. Annual General Meetings for years 2002 and 2003 are intended for May 15, 2003.

Softrock trades on the Alberta Stock Exchange under the trading symbol "SFT".

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: Softrock Minerals Ltd., Keith McLean, President, (403) 266-2602 or Cell (403) 804-3014, (403) 233-0203 (FAX), Website: www.softrockminerals.com