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Institutions Purchase Stake in Orbital

9 December 1999

Institutions Purchase Stake in Orbital

    PERTH, Australia, Dec. 9 -- A small number of institutional
investors have purchased The Broken Hill Proprietary Company Limited's (BHP)
shareholding in Orbital Engine Corporation Limited at a premium to
the market price prevailing at the time of sale.  The transaction, brokered by
Deutsche Securities Australia Limited in Sydney, involved the sale of
30,809,200 ordinary shares at A$0.90.
    "BHP has been involved with Orbital since our inception in the early
1970's.  I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to their
outstanding contribution over the term of their involvement," said Orbital's
Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Kim Schlunke.  "We welcome the new shareholders
to our register and look forward to a prosperous relationship with them
following this demonstration of confidence in our prospects."
    Orbital is a leading international developer of engine technologies using
direct in-cylinder fuel injection and lean-burn systems for enhanced fuel
economy and lower emissions.  The company serves the worldwide automotive,
marine, recreational and motorcycle markets.  Headquartered in Perth, Western
Australia, Orbital stock is traded on the Australian Stock Exchange (OEC), the
New York Stock Exchange (OE) as well as the Berlin (ORE) and Frankfurt (OREA)
Exchanges.