New rig launches WestSide’s CSG campaign
WESTSIDE Corporation has kicked off the second stage of its 2009 coal seam gas drilling campaign in the Bowen Basin with the spudding of the Tilbrook-9a well.
WestSide said Tilbrook-9a was the first well in the expanded program which will include 16 new holes in ATP 688P and ATP 769P.
ATP 688P covers the Tilbrook, Mount Saint Martin and Bald Hills area while ATP 769P covers the Paranui area.
The wells will be drilled with WestSide’s new Schramm TXD 180 drilling rig, one of the largest dedicated CSG rigs in Australia.
WestSide managing chairman Angus Karoll said the rig would allow the company to achieve greater efficiency and control over its programs.
“Having the option to call on our own rig will reduce our exposure to increasing drilling costs and market pressures,” he said.
“Our team has worked diligently over recent months to ensure the rig has been commissioned to highest standards of safety and operability.
“Additionally, the rig will be available for use by other industry participants at commercial leasing rates when the rig is not in use on WestSide’s projects.”
Tilbrook-9a is being drilled to confirm the depth and thickness of the P coal seam as a precursor to the drilling of the second dual-lateral CSG appraisal well at the Tilbrook pilot.
WestSide and QGC each hold a 50% stake in the two permits and will jointly fund the exploration and appraisal programs.
Monday, 19 October 2009
PNN
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