VANCOUVER, Oct. 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ - Taseko Mines Limited ("Taseko" or the "Company") (TSX: TKO; NYSE Amex: TGB) is pleased to announce that Russell Hallbauer, President and CEO of Taseko, was named Pacific Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year 2009 in the Mining and Metals category.

Russell, a mining engineer with 30 years of mining experience in British Columbia, joined Taseko as President and CEO in 2005. It was his vision that is credited for the modernization and expansion of the nearly 40-year old Gibraltar Mine. In a few short years, Russell has advanced his plans to create a prominent mid-tier Canadian mining company through the continued expansion of Gibraltar and construction of the Prosperity gold-copper project.

Ernst & Young's Entrepreneur of the Year is considered one of the world's most prestigious business awards for entrepreneurs. The award makes a difference through the unique way it encourages entrepreneurial activity among those with potential and recognizes the contribution of people who inspire others with their vision, leadership and achievement. It celebrates those who are building and leading successful, growing and dynamic businesses.

Ron Thiessen, Chairman of Taseko commented, "For Russell to be the recipient of this reward is a testament to his accomplishments at Taseko in just four years. His intensity and determination has allowed Taseko to weather one of the worst economic downturns in history and emerge as a stronger, more efficient company. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to congratulate Russell for winning this award."

    Ronald Thiessen
    Chairman

    No regulatory authority has approved or disapproved of the information
    contained in this news release.

                         Forward Looking Statements

This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address future production, reserve potential, exploration drilling, exploitation activities and events or developments that the Company expects are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include capital market conditions, commodities market prices, exploitation and exploration successes, lack of continuity of mineralization, continued availability of capital and financing, the ability to obtain and maintain required permits, including environmental, construction and mining permits and general economic, market or business conditions. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and that actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. For more information on the Company, Investors should review the Company's annual Form 40-F filing with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or the Company's home jurisdiction filings at www.sedar.com.

SOURCE Taseko Mines Limited