VANCOUVER, B.C. July 25, 2002 (PRIMEZONE) -- Management of Bright Star Ventures Ltd. (TSX Venture:BSV) and Network Gaming International Corporation (TSX Venture:NGQ) are pleased to announce that their 50%-50% joint venture has acquired an option to earn a 100% working interest in the BJP 4 to 18 claims (comprising 34 units) directly adjacent to the J & L claims owned by Bright Star Ventures Ltd. Previous exploration works conducted by DiaMet Minerals Ltd. have identified 1.9 g/t of platinum over 8.5 meters in a bedrock chip-channel sample on the J & L claims.
In the 1890's the Tulameen River and its tributary creeks were the site of a major gold rush. Along with bonanza grade placer gold, miners discovered a grayish metal, which was ultimately determined to be Platinum. As reported by the BC Ministry of Energy and Mines, 20,000 ounces of platinum nuggets were recovered in streams originating from this area.
The BC Ministry of Energy and Mines indicated that three times more platinum was produced than gold in the upper reaches of the Tulameen River. This is in the area encompassed by Champion Creek. This area flanks the western margin of the Tulameen Ultramafic Complex, and is the catch basin for creeks flowing into Champion Creek and then into the Tulameen River. The new land acquisition encompasses the headwater drainage of Champion Creek.
The purchase price for the 34 units is 10,000 shares of Bright Star Ventures Ltd., and a cash payment of $25,000 at the end of the third year. The vendor will retain a 1.5% net smelter return with a $300,000 buyout.
For information on the company call 1-800 884-3864, or visit our website at www.brightstar-ventures.com
On behalf of the Board "Reg Handford" President & Director
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 statements including but not limited to comments regarding the timing and content of upcoming work programs, geological interpretations, receipt of property titles, potential mineral recovery processes, etc. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore, involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements.