The Lake Eva Oil Hoax-

THE OIL “BUBBLE” BURSTS.

The Dugout Dismantled

Tho discovery of oil in Lake Eva (near Southern Cross) was confirmed recently, when a detective, who had investigated the circumstances of the “find.” reported having discovered a 100-gallon tank, containing a mixture of mineral oils, and connected with the bore by pipes. The tank was found under a bunk in the hut formerly occupied by Robert ROTHKEHL and Ernest Thompson, the discoverers of the oilfield. Warrants for the arrest of the two men on a charge of conspiracy to defraud have accordingly been issued.

Tank and Outpipe in Dugout

It may be remembered that following upon an announcement by Rothkehl that oil had been discovered, a company was formed to exploit the “well” and the Government Geologist was sent to the spot to take samples for analysis. As the geologist arrived, Rothkehl departed. (Thompson had already gone), and his departure was accounted for by the result of the analysis. This disclosed the fact that the oil in the bore consisted of kerosene, Vaseline, and soap, and as it was held to be impossible for these manufactured products to be found naturally under such conditions, further investigations resulted.

Manhole under-bunk exposed.

Thompson was arrested some weeks later and all the money they had taken in shares in their company was returned. Thompson stood trial for attempting to defraud in March 1924 and was found guilty. His sentence of six months of hard labour was considered lenient as it was thought that he was led on by the bigger criminal Rothkehl.

Emptying the tank in dugout of oil.

Rothkehl absconded and was never heard of again. In the police crime museum, there were jars of the ‘alleged’ oil on display for many years along with details of the hoax!