In a move reminiscent of Cazaly Resources' audacious claim over Rio Tinto's Shovelanna iron ore deposit in the Pilbara, two junior mining companies have applied for exploration licences over ground that until February 19 belonged to Wesfarmers.

Blackham Resources and Jindalee Resources applied at the same time for exploration licences over the Scaddan coal project 60 kilometres north of Esperance, after Wesfarmers' Premier Coal failed to apply for an extension of its lease over the area.