Number 42/08

BHP Billiton announced today that it has appointed Hubrecht (Hubie) van Dalsen as President Metallurgical Coal, effective 2 February 2009.

Mr van Dalsen was until recently the Managing Director Coal Australia for Rio Tinto, where he has spent almost 20 years in various operational, business development, project development, finance and executive leadership roles.

BHP Billiton Chief Executive Ferrous and Coal Marcus Randolph today welcomed Mr van Dalsen to the executive team.

"Hubie has a long and distinguished career in the mining industry and his depth of knowledge and experience will be an asset to the company. I look forward to working with him to further develop and enhance our metallurgical coal business".

Mr van Dalsen will be based in Brisbane.

Dave Murray, who has been acting as President, Metallurgical Coal and Energy Coal, will remain President, Energy Coal.

For further information please contact:

Australia
Samantha Evans, Media Relations
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Peter Ogden, Media Relations
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Leng Lau, Investor Relations
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United Kingdom & South Africa
Andre Liebenberg, Investor Relations
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email: Andre.Liebenberg@bhpbilliton.com

Illtud Harri, Media Relations
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United States
Scott Espenshade, Investor Relations
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email: Scott.Espenshade @bhpbilliton.com

Ruban Yogarajah, Media Relations
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email: Ruban.Yogarajah@bhpbilliton.com