Media representatives are invited to a function on board "RV Franklin", on Thursday 9 October from 4:30 to 6:00 pm.

The CSIRO research vessel will be berthed at the Pinkenba No. 1 Wharf, Brisbane, and sails on 10 October for Papua New Guinea waters. An international team of scientists will explore submarine volcanoes, in search of mineral deposits.

Last December in the Bismarck Sea the team discovered an exceptionally active hot spring site, belching clouds of "black smoke" and forming deposits rich in copper and gold.

The team will also explore a "seamount" at least 1,500 metres high which was detected by echo-sounding near New Ireland four years ago, but was only recently recognised when the records were re-examined.

The research will help mining companies develop ways of exploring on land for ore deposits formed millions of years ago on what was then the ocean floor.

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More information from:
Dr Ray Binns, CSIRO Division of Exploration and Mining, Tuesday 7 October at CSIRO North Ryde (02) 9490 8741
Wednesday 8 October, afternoon, CSIRO Pinjarra Hills c/- Dr Dave Dekker (07) 3212 4598/4567
Wednesday 8 October, night, Ridge Hotel (07) 3831 5000
VHS footage of undersea "black smokers" available.