April 7, 2004

News Release: Western Canadian Coal Corp. to evaluate Sukunka Coal property

Western Canadian Coal Corp. (TSX-V:WTN) ('Western'or the 'Company') announces that is has entered into agreement with Talisman Energy Inc. (Talisman) whereby Western will explore and evaluate the mine development potential on Talisman's Sukunka coal licenses in northeast BC.

Western intends to begin geological database and model development immediately with the intent of identifying potential mine areas, and subsequently, to make a mine development proposal to Talisman. Subject to acceptance by Talisman, and to conclusion of a development agreement, Western intends to carry out additional exploration and re-development studies with the objective of developing an initial underground mine within 2 years. The Sukunka property is located about 30 km northwest of Tumbler Ridge and about 50 km south of Chetwynd. Its north and south areas are well accessed by existing roads and is situated between the existing Western coal mine developments at Burnt River and Wolverine.

The Sukunka coal licenses were explored and evaluated for underground mine development in the late seventies and early eighties. At the time, extensive exploration drilling, bulk sampling, test mine development, and feasibility studies were carried out, resulting in definition of a historical resource in excess of 120 million tonnes. Bulk samples of approximately 200,000 tonnes were shipped to Asian mills for testing and at the time the proposed product coal was considered to be an excellent metallurgical coking coal featuring low ash content and excellent coking indices.

In an unrelated matter Western has accepted the resignation of two directors, Mr. Ken Bates and Mr. Shinji Koyanagi. The board wishes to express its thanks to these gentlemen for their contribution to the Company's success.

Western Canadian Coal Corp. currently has more than 250 million tonnes of coal under exploration and development planning in British Columbia. Priority is on the start of construction for the development of the Wolverine Perry Creek Coal Project in the 4th quarter of 2004 leading to commercial production in the 2nd quarter of 2006.

Charles G. Pitcher President &C.E.O.

The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the accuracy or adequacy of this release.

For further information: Western Canadian Coal Corp., Contact Barry Girling or Charles Pitcher, President at (604) 608-2692 or info(at)westerncoal.com, Website: www.westerncoal.com

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