Otway Basin acreage release OT2012-A...O B OTA 3THE OFFER A new petroleum exploration licence (PEL)...

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204315 Department for Manufacturing, Innovation, Trade, Resources and Energy Energy Resources Division August 2012 www.petroleum.dmitre.sa.gov.au APRIL 4 2 0 1 3 Bids close Otway Basin OT2012-A South Australia Acreage Release

Transcript of Otway Basin acreage release OT2012-A...O B OTA 3THE OFFER A new petroleum exploration licence (PEL)...

  • 204315

    Department for Manufacturing,Innovation, Trade, Resources and Energy

    Energy Resources Division August 2012

    www.petroleum.dmitre.sa.gov.au

    APRIL 42 0 13

    Bids close

    Otway BasinOT2012-ASouth Australia Acreage Release

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 2

    CONTENTS

    THE OFFER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

    PRODUCTS AND DATA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

    INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

    PETROLEUM GEOLOGY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

    Structural setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

    Stratigraphy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

    Source rock distribution and maturity modelling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

    Reservoirs and seals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

    Petroleum entrapment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

    Undiscovered conventional resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

    EXPLORATION POTENTIAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

    Shale gas plays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

    Casterton Formation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

    Upper and Lower Sawpit shales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

    Shale oil play . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

    Casterton Formation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

    Infrastructure and markets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

    LAND ACCESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

    National parks and reserves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

    Environmental regulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

    European heritage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

    Aboriginal heritage and native title . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

    Geothermal Exploration Licences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

    Associated Activities Licences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

    CLIMATE AND LAND USE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

    BIDDING AND AWARD PROCESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

    CONTACT INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

    REFERENCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 3

    THE OFFERA new petroleum exploration licence (PEL) in the Otway Basin is being offered by the South Australian Government on the basis of work program bidding (Fig. 1). Block OT2012-A covers 5800 sq km comprising partial relinquishments from PELs 82, 154, 155, 186 and full relinquishment of PEL 187. Twenty two wells have been drilled and 4468 line kilometres of 2D seismic data have been acquired within the block (Figs 2, 3).

    PRODUCTS AND DATAA comprehensive summary of the Cooper and Eromanga basins is available in The Petroleum Geology of South Australia Volume 1:Otway Basin (2nd Edition). This volume include chapters on structural and tectonic history, litho- and biostratigraphy, source rocks and maturity, reservoirs, seals, trap development, discovered reserves, field reviews, undiscovered potential, and exploration history. The publication can alsobe downloaded via the DMITRE Petroleum website, and is also available for free on the Petroleum and Geothermal in South Australia DVD.

    Previous exploration data and reports are readily available from DMITRE in digital format on portable hard drives, including:

    f well completion reports (also downloadable from the DMITRE Petroleum website via SARIG)

    f GIS datasets including wells, seismic, tenements, pipelines

    f seismic survey shot point location data f seismic survey reports and archive stack data (SEGY format)

    f digital well logs (DLIS/LIS format) f velocity survey check shot information f structure maps and datasets

    f PEPS database with production, well, seismic and engineering data (also downloadable from the DMITRE Petroleum website)

    f company prospectivity reports (also downloadable from the DMITRE Petroleum website via SARIG)

    SARIG (South Australia Resources Information Geoserver) can be accessed by selecting SARIG on the DMITRE Petroleum website . SARIG provides an interactive map window to view, query and download data. More information on products and data can be accessed by selecting ‘Products and Data’ on the DMITRE Petroleum website home page.

    INTRODUCTIONThe Otway Basin is one of the best known and most actively explored of the series of Mesozoic rift basins that span the southern coastline of Australia, and which were formed as a result of rifting between the Antarctic and Australian plates (Fig. 4).

    Seismic studies have shown that its structural evolution is analogous to basins such as the Tucano–Reconcauo Basin of Brazil and the Gabon and Cabinda basins of the west coast of Africa. Each of these basins contains at least one giant oil field.

    The recent appraisal of the condensate rich Jacaranda Ridge Field has significantly upgraded the Early Cretaceous in the basin. The main risk factors are structural integrity and small targets; however, regional 3D seismic surveys are being used to address the first risk factor and sophisticated fault leakage analysis of prospects is being conducted by some operators prior to drilling.

    The economic viability of small gas discoveries has been improved by the proximity to markets for such discoveries, their potential use for

    South Australia OTWAY BASINAcreage Release Block OT2012-ABIDS CLOSE 4.00 pm Australian Central Standard Time, Thursday 4th April 2013

    http://www.petroleum.dmitre.sa.gov.auhttp://www.petroleum.dmitre.sa.gov.auhttp://minerals.pir.sa.gov.au/sarig

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 4

    Petroleum pipelinesPipeline licence (PL) – gas

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    Otway Basin

    OT2012-A

    OT2012-A

    Robe

    Penola

    Beachport

    Kingston

    Mount Gambier

    S12-4

    PEL 494

    PEL 495

    PEL 496

    PEL 186

    PEL 186

    PEL 155

    PEL 127

    PEL 154

    PEL 82

    PEL 154

    PEL 496

    PEL 255

    PEL 82

    PELA 610

    21

    62168

    202

    141°0'E140°30'E140°0'E139°30'E37

    °0'S

    37°3

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    38°0

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    Otway Basin, South Australia

    PETROLEUM LICENCES

    PL3

    VIC

    TOR

    IA

    PL19

    PL19PL16

    ")

    ")

    ")")

    ")")

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    Marla

    Ceduna

    ADELAIDE

    Oodnadatta

    Coober Pedy

    Port Lincoln

    PortAugusta

    Leigh Creek

    Moomba

    Mount Gambier250 kmEnlargement area

    0 25 50 Kilometres

    Datum GDA 94 - Projection MGA Zone 54

    Otway Basin

    Petroleum tenements

    Acreage release block

    Exploration licence (PEL)

    Exploration licence application (PELA)

    Production licence (PPL)

    Retention licence (PRL)

    Offshore acreage release block

    REG 204315-012

    PL4

    Otway Basin outline

    Park or reserve –no petroleum exploration access

    Petroleum wells.

    CO2 well.

    CO2 well with oil shows.

    Dry hole.

    Dry hole with oil shows.

    Gas showsGas well

    .

    Gas well with oil shows.

    Oil and gas well.

    Oil and gas showsOil well

    . Proposed or currently drilling

    PL13

    Figure 1 Petroleum licences and OT2012-A acreage release

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 5

    Petroleum pipelinesPipeline licence (PL) – gas

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    Otway Basin

    OT2012-A

    OT2012-A

    Robe

    Penola

    Beachport

    Kingston

    Mount Gambier

    S12-4

    PEL 494

    PEL 495

    PEL 496

    PEL 186

    PEL 186

    PEL 155

    PEL 127

    PEL 154

    PEL 82

    PEL 154

    PEL 496

    PEL 255

    PEL 82

    8

    3

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    494

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    209

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    1 DW1

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    1 DW1

    Copa 1

    Zema 1 Wynn 1

    Robe 1

    Morum 1

    Troas 1

    Trihi 1

    Picks 1

    Laira 1

    Pyrus 1

    Wanda 1

    Penola 1

    Penley 1

    Redman 1

    Sawpit 1

    Cowrie 1

    Chama 1A

    Patrick 1

    Trumpet 1

    Banyula 1

    McNicol 1

    Neptune 1

    Porthos 1

    Katnook 1

    St Clair 1

    Viewbank 1

    Caroline 1

    McNamara 1

    Churinga 1

    Argonaut 1A

    Beachport 1

    Crayfish 1A

    Heat Flow 1

    Lucindale 1

    Sooc Bore 1

    Killarney 1

    Kentgrove 1

    Robertson 1

    Camelback 1

    Greenways 1

    Burrungule 1

    Rendelsham 1

    Kalangadoo 1

    Crankshaft 1

    Mount Hope 1

    Weatherall 1

    Salamander 1

    Hungerford 1

    Tantanoola 2

    Lake Eliza 1Killanoola 1

    Robin Hood 1

    East Avenue 1

    Lake Bonney 1

    Reedy Creek 1

    Hatherleigh 1

    Lake Hawdon 1

    Sophia Jane 1

    Bool Lagoon 1

    Little John 1

    Lake George 1Biscuit Flat 1

    Diamond Swamp 1

    SAOW Caroline 1

    McNamara Park 1

    Douglas Point 1

    Geltwood Beach 1

    Kingston Coal 207

    Killanoola South 1Killanoola Southeast 1

    PELA 610

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    62168202

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    Otway Basin, South Australia

    PETROLEUM and GEOTHERMAL WELLS

    PL3

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    PL19

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    Oodnadatta

    Coober Pedy

    Port Lincoln

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    Leigh Creek

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    Mount Gambier250 kmEnlargement area

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    Datum GDA 94 - Projection MGA Zone 54

    Otway Basin

    Petroleum tenements

    Acreage release block

    Exploration licence (PEL)

    Exploration licence application (PELA)

    Production licence (PPL)

    Retention licence (PRL)

    Offshore acreage release block

    REG 204315-015

    PL4

    Otway Basin outline

    Park or reserve –no petroleum exploration access

    Petroleum wells.

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    CO2 well with oil shows.

    Dry hole.

    Dry hole with oil shows.

    Gas showsGas well

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    Oil and gas well.

    Oil and gas showsOil well

    . Proposed or currently drilling

    PL13

    Geothermal wells.

    Abandoned well.

    Proposed or currently drillingSuspended well

    Figure 2 Otway Basin petroleum and geothermal wells

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 6

    Petroleum pipelinesPipeline licence (PL) – gas

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    Otway Basin, South Australia

    SEISMIC LINES

    PL3

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    Datum GDA 94 - Projection MGA Zone 54

    Otway Basin

    Petroleum tenements

    Acreage release block

    Exploration licence (PEL)

    Exploration licence application (PELA)

    Production licence (PPL)

    Retention licence (PRL)

    Offshore acreage release block

    REG 204315-016

    PL4

    Otway Basin outline

    Park or reserve –no petroleum exploration access

    Seismic linesPre 19801980 to 19891990 to 1999Post 2000

    PL13

    Figure 3 Otway Basin seismic surveys coverage

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 7

    peak electricity generation opportunities in the national electricity market (as demonstrated by the 80 MW Ladbroke Grove Power Station). In 2002–03, the SEA Gas pipeline was constructed to transport offshore Otway gas from the Iona gas facility in Victoria to Adelaide (Fig. 1). Origin Energy Retail Ltd constructed and commissioned the SESA Pipeline in 2005. This 45 km pipeline connects the SEA Gas Pipeline in Victoria to Epic Energy’s South East Pipeline System and the Ladbroke Grove Power Station.

    PETROLEUM GEOLOGYStructural settingThe northern limit is defined by outcropping early Palaeozoic metamorphic and igneous rocks (the Padthaway Ridge) and sediments may occur up to 160 km offshore. Approximately 70% of the basin is offshore. To the west, the basin passes into the Duntroon Sub-basin, and in the east it continues into Victoria. Offshore it is locally bound by a Palaeozoic outer-margin high or volcanics.

    Separate grabens and half grabens filled with a Jurassic to Early Cretaceous rift sequence are interpreted to exist across most of the basin (Figs

    4, 6, 7) but have only been penetrated onshore. The rate of rifting slowed during the Barremian to Albian but rapidly increased before the end of the Albian in the northern part of the basin. Over 4 km of late Albian to Late Cretaceous sediments occur within the Morum Sub-basin offshore, and the widespread Cenomanian unconformity is predicted not to occur towards the north.

    Two major sedimentary sequences are targets for petroleum exploration in South Australia:

    (i) The Berriasian to Hauterivian sequence (Crayfish Group, early rift) is known only from the northern area, where E–W and NW–SE trending half-grabens (Robe, Penola, St Clair and Tantanoola Troughs; Figs 5, 9,10) contain fluvial to lacustrine sediments that are proven gas reservoirs.

    (ii) The Late Cretaceous sequence (Sherbrook Group) occurs as a deltaic to deep-water wedge south of the Tartwaup Hinge (Figs 5, 8, 11).

    StratigraphyThe oldest unit is the Casterton Formation, a volcanic and lacustrine shale unit that occurs in

    Morum High

    Tartwaup Hinge

    MorumSub-basin

    Shelf Break Hinge

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    RIVOLI

    TROUGH

    LUCINDALE

    HIGHTROUGH

    LAKE

    ELIZA HIGH

    RENDELSHAM

    HIGH

    TROUGH

    HIGHHATHERLEIGHHIGH

    HATH

    ERLEIGH

    SWFAULT

    HATHERLEIGHNE

    FAULT

    141o

    141o

    WOAKWINETERRACE

    LIMIT OF

    CRAYFISH

    GROUP

    ST C

    TLAIR

    ROUGHS

    CLT

    AIFR AULT

    CHAMA TERRACE

    RO

    BE

    TANTANOOLA

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    Portland Trough

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    Caroline 199% CO

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    BE AACH T NPOR UL. F T

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    Ladbroke Grove field

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    Late Cretaceous Troughs

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    OT2012-Arelease block

    STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS

    Otway Basin, South Australia

    KILOMETRES

    0 25

    Figure 4 Structural elements

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 8

    some wells on the northern flank of the Penola Trough and in Victoria, and may occur in the undrilled deeper parts of the Robe and Penola Troughs (Figs 4, 5). The oldest sequence known in South Australia is the Crayfish Group, which fills half grabens that can be identified in Figure 7. The first unit is the Pretty Hill Formation, a braided fluvial sandstone that occurs in the deepest parts of the troughs. This is followed by fluviolacustrine shale and siltstone (Laira Formation), which in turn is overlain by the braided fluvial Katnook Sandstone. The Katnook Sandstone thickens to the NW, essentially as a sandy facies of the Laira Formation. On the extreme northern margin, both the Katnook Sandstone and Pretty Hill Formation are absent,

    and the Crayfish Group comprises only the shaly Laira Formation. The Crayfish Group is unconformably overlain by the Eumeralla Formation, which is a fluvial siltstone – shale sequence with some minor coal and meandering fluvial sandstone units. The Windermere Sandstone is a regionally extensive transgressive sand unit which overlays the Crayfish unconformity and thickens within the Early Cretaceous troughs. The Eumeralla Formation (Fig. 5) comprises extensive fluviolacustrine volcanogenic sediment deposited during the sag phase of the basin.

    The Late Cretaceous Sherbrook Group (Fig. 5) overlies the Otway Supergroup as a deltaic wedge that rapidly thickens to the south

    JURASSIC

    PALAEOZOIC

    CRETACEOUS

    Early

    Late

    Late

    Early

    Early

    MIOCENE

    PLIOCENE-PLEISTOCENE

    HOLOCENE

    EOCENE

    OLIGOCENE Late

    Late

    Late

    Middle

    Early

    Santonian

    Turonian

    Cenomanian

    Albian

    Aptian

    Barremian

    Hauterivian

    Valanginian

    Berriasian

    Tithonian

    Burdigalianto Rupelian

    Serravallian

    Priabonian

    Bartonian

    Lutetian

    Ypresian

    Thanetian

    Danian

    Maastrictian

    Campanian

    TIME(Ma)

    CHRONOSTRATIGRAPHY TECTONICSTAGES

    STRUCTURAL EVENTSSERIES DIVISION STAGES

    ROCK UNITOIL AND GAS

    OCCURRENCES

    RECENT VOLCANICS

    Windermere Sandstone Member

    upper Sawpitshale mbr

    Gambier Limestone

    Pebble Point Formation

    TAS

    MA

    NS

    EA

    SP

    REA

    DIN

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    SO

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    NO

    CEA

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    PR

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    DIN

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    Continued thermalsubsidence— clastic starvation

    Episodic upliftand erosion events

    Offshore rift/onshore sag

    Tilting, folding,

    uplift, erosion

    Continental separationregional uplift — erosion,NW–SE compression

    Rifting

    Doming, NW–SE extension

    Thermal subsidence(down to south)

    Rifting south of Tartwaup Hinge

    Inversionsea level changes— channelling

    Com

    pres

    sion

    Pember Mudstone

    Dilwyn Formation

    Narrawaturk Marl

    GellibrandMarl

    Compton Cgl

    TimboonSandstone

    Paaratte

    Formation

    Belfast Mudstone

    Waarre Ss

    Laira Formation

    Copa Fm167 m

    Eumeralla

    Formation

    SH

    ER

    BR

    OO

    KG

    RO

    UP

    SH

    IPW

    REC

    KS

    UP

    GR

    OU

    P

    Katnook Ss

    Sawpit ss mbrPretty HillFormation

    KANMANTOO GROUPEQUIVALENTS

    WA

    NG

    ER

    RIP

    GR

    OU

    PH

    EYTES

    BU

    RY

    GR

    OU

    P

    1590 m

    ArgonautMember

    400 m

    28 m

    593 m

    198 m

    90 m

    1987 m

    Slopefan

    Flaxman Fm

    1362 m

    204 m

    unnamedss

    ?5000 m

    2500 m+ 21 m

    CR

    AY

    FIS

    HG

    RO

    UP

    PALEOCENE

    TAS

    MA

    NS

    EA

    RIF

    TIN

    G

    RIF

    TIN

    GS

    AG

    /R

    IFT

    Early

    Slo

    wFa

    st

    890 m

    690 m

    Fahley 1

    Curdie 1

    Lindon 1

    Breaksea Reef 1

    Port Campbell 1

    North Paaratte 3

    Westgate 1A

    Normanby 1A

    Iona 1

    Grumby 1

    North Paaratte 1Caroline 1

    Crayfish 1APort Campbell 4Windermere 1Crayfish 1Katnook 2

    Windermere 2

    Katnook 1

    Katnook FieldHaselgrove FieldRedman FieldLadbroke Grove Field

    Laira 1Crayfish 1A

    Wynn 1Jacaranda Ridge 1Killanoola 1

    Sawpit 1

    Kalangadoo 1 (CO2)

    Minerva 1La Bella 1Thylacine 1Geographe 1

    Minerva 1

    Caroline 1 (Co )2

    DEPOSITIONALENVIRONMENT

    Sandstone, low-grademetasediments,phyllite,metavolcanics.granite intrusives

    Casterton: lacustrine.fluviolacustrine.

    Katnook:meandering to distalbraided fluvial.

    Laira: lacustrine,minor meanderingfluvial.

    Pretty Hill: sandybraided fluvial.

    Windermere:meandering to distalbraided fluvial.

    Eumeralla: meanderingfluvial lacustrine andbackswamp. Localchannel sands frombase levelreactivation.

    Timboon: upperdelta plainregressive unit,intermittent marginalmarine influence.

    Paaratte: lower deltaplain, lagoonal andmarginal shoreface.

    Belfast: complex ofupper pro-delta,slope, delta front andinterdistributaryfacies, mixed sand/mud slope fan.

    Flaxman: lower deltaplain distributary,proximal to ?marine– restricted marineenvironment.

    Copa: meanderingfluvial to lacustrinepossible upper deltaplain.

    Marine progradingsequence.

    Dilwyn: fluvial anddelta.

    Pember: inter-distributary bay muds.

    Pebble Point: inter-distributary bay muds.

    Basaltic pyroclasticsof Mt Gambier region.

    OTW

    AY

    SU

    PER

    GR

    OU

    P

    ?500 m

    CastertonFormation

    200967-020

    CO

    ND

    EN

    SE

    DS

    EC

    TIO

    N

    ?

    P. tuberculatus

    T. bellus

    N. asperus

    P. asperopolus

    M. diversus

    L. balmei

    T. longus

    T. lillei

    N. senectus

    T. apoxyexinus

    P. mawsonii

    A. distocarinatus

    spore–pollenzones

    P. pannosus

    C.paradoxa

    C.striatus

    P. notensis

    upperF. wonthaggiensis

    lowerF. wonthaggiensis

    upperC. australiensis

    L C. australiensis

    R. watherooensis

    Coniacian

    Kimmeridgian

    NIRRANDAGROUP

    36

    550

    96

    113

    300

    144

    125

    10

    65

    Waarre: upper deltaplain to low sinuosityfluvial, beach barrier,coal swamp.

    Sawpit Shale:lucustrine, overbank.

    Sawpit Sandstone:braided, minormeandering fluvial.

    GA

    MB

    IER

    BA

    SIN

    OT

    WA

    YB

    AS

    IN

    lower Sawpitshale memberwith unnamedshale at base

    Mepunga Fm

    21 m

    25

    54

    73

    83

    87.5

    88.5

    91

    119

    131

    138

    150

    Figure 5 Otway Basin stratigraphy

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 9

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    Otway Basin

    PENOLA

    TROUGH

    ROBE TR

    OUGH

    OT2012-A

    OT2012-A

    Robe

    Penola

    Beachport

    Kingston

    Mount Gambier

    S12-4

    PEL 494

    PEL 495

    PEL 496

    PEL 186

    PEL 186

    PEL 155

    PEL 127

    PEL 154

    PEL 82

    PEL 154

    PEL 496

    PEL 255

    PEL 82

    PELA 610

    21

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    141°0'E140°30'E140°0'E139°30'E37

    °0'S

    37°3

    0'S

    38°0

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    Otway Basin, South Australia

    GRAVITY IMAGE MAP

    PL3

    VIC

    TOR

    IA

    PL19

    PL19PL16

    ")

    ")

    ")")

    ")")

    ")

    ")

    ")")

    ")

    Marla

    Ceduna

    ADELAIDE

    Oodnadatta

    Coober Pedy

    Port Lincoln

    PortAugusta

    Leigh Creek

    Moomba

    Mount Gambier250 kmEnlargement area

    0 25 50 Kilometres

    Datum GDA 94 - Projection MGA Zone 54

    Otway Basin

    Petroleum tenements

    Acreage release block

    Exploration licence (PEL)

    Exploration licence application (PELA)

    Production licence (PPL)

    Retention licence (PRL)

    Offshore acreage release block

    REG 204315-017

    PL4

    Otway Basin outline

    Park or reserve –no petroleum exploration access

    Petroleum wells.

    CO2 well.

    CO2 well with oil shows.

    Dry hole.

    Dry hole with oil shows.

    Gas showsGas well

    .

    Gas well with oil shows.

    Oil and gas well.

    Oil and gas showsOil well

    . Proposed or currently drilling

    PL13

    High: 56.79

    Low: -157.86

    mGal

    Figure 6 Gravity map, Otway Basin, South Australia

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 10

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    Otway Basin

    ROBE TR

    OUGH

    OT2012-A

    OT2012-A

    Robe

    Penola

    Beachport

    Kingston

    Mount Gambier

    S12-4

    PEL 494

    PEL 495

    PEL 496

    PEL 186

    PEL 186

    PEL 155

    PEL 127

    PEL 154

    PEL 82

    PEL 154

    PEL 496

    PEL 255

    PEL 82

    PELA 610

    21

    62168

    202

    141°0'E140°30'E140°0'E139°30'E37

    °0'S

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    38°0

    'S

    Otway Basin, South Australia

    CRAYFISH ISOPACH MAP

    PL3

    VIC

    TOR

    IA

    PL19

    PL19PL16

    ")

    ")

    ")")

    ")")

    ")

    ")

    ")")

    ")

    Marla

    Ceduna

    ADELAIDE

    Oodnadatta

    Coober Pedy

    Port Lincoln

    PortAugusta

    Leigh Creek

    Moomba

    Mount Gambier250 kmEnlargement area

    0 25 50 Kilometres

    Datum GDA 94 - Projection MGA Zone 54

    Otway Basin

    Petroleum tenements

    Acreage release block

    Exploration licence (PEL)

    Exploration licence application (PELA)

    Production licence (PPL)

    Retention licence (PRL)

    Offshore acreage release block

    REG 204315-018

    PL4

    Otway Basin outline

    Park or reserve –no petroleum exploration access

    Petroleum wells.

    CO2 well.

    CO2 well with oil shows.

    Dry hole.

    Dry hole with oil shows.

    Gas showsGas well

    .

    Gas well with oil shows.

    Oil and gas well.

    Oil and gas showsOil well

    . Proposed or currently drilling

    PL13

    – 41

    – -5769

    Metres

    – -4609

    – -3439

    – -2279

    – -1119

    Figure 7 Crayfish Group isopach map, Otway Basin, South Australia

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 11

    accounting for most of the sediment in the Morum Sub-basin. In the northern part of the basin, where the group is thin, it comprises a coarse sandstone that represents a condensed equivalent of the Copa, Waarre, Flaxman, Belfast, Paaratte and Timboon units found to the south. Offshore, beyond the present day shelf, thick packages of high-amplitude reflectors indicate the possible presence of paralic oil-prone coals or marine oil shale. From Belfast Mudstone to Timboon Sandstone the sequence represents a prograding delta, with early marine influence and deep-water submarine slope-fans along the outer margin. Thickening of Cainozoic sediments south of the Tartwaup Hinge provide adequate depth of burial of the Late Cretaceous sequence to generate hydrocarbons (Fig. 8). Regional sections across the Otway Basin are shown in Figures 9, 10 and 11.

    Source rock distribution and maturity modellingSource rocks are capable of producing both gas and oil and the present day temperature gradient is moderate, averaging ~2.7–3.6 °C per 100 m depth.

    There are numerous source rocks throughout the Late Jurassic to Tertiary section of the western Otway Basin (Fig. 4). For the northern portion of the acreage release area, only the Casterton Formation and Crayfish Group sediments are likely to have source potential (Figs 12, 13). These source rocks are non-marine, Type III to IV kerogen type derived from land plants with some non-marine Type II algal rich shales occurring, especially in the early rift succession. Sediments of the Casterton and near the base of Crayfish Group tend to be over mature for oil generation in the deeper portions of half graben and mature for gas. On the flanks of these troughs they tend to be early mature to mature for oil whilst on basement highs they are immature to marginally mature for oil generation (Figs 15, 16).

    The Eumeralla Formation is not deep enough in the northern portion of the basin to be a source and shallow northern targets would rely on long-range migration, which may be impeded by the high density of E–W faults. However to the south of the Tartwaup Hinge, where thick Sherbrook sediments occur, coals and possible profundal shales within Eumeralla Formation (Fig. 14), Waarre and Belfast Mudstone contain potential

    Type II and III source rocks and are mature for oil making them a suitable source for Waarre and Flaxman targets.

    For the southern portion of the acreage release area, coals and possible profundal shales within Eumeralla Formation, Waarre Sandstone and Belfast Mudstone contain potential Type II and III source rocks and are mature for oil to the south of the Tartwaup Hinge (Fig. 17).

    The CO2 in Caroline Field has a volcanic source, assumed to be from the Holocene Mt Gambier volcanic chain, which trends NW through the Tantanoola Trough (Fig. 4). Carbon dioxide from a magmatic source has also been noted in Ladbroke Grove Field and Kalangadoo 1. The Caroline 1 well is the single most profitable well in South Australia.

    Maturation profiles are strongly influenced by the thickness of the Late Cretaceous and Tertiary (Figs 8, 17). In addition for the Early Cretaceous play, each discrete half graben or structural province appears to have its own intrinsic sedimentological and thermal history. Accordingly, source rock distribution, richness, kerogen type and quality can be highly variable as a consequence of the basin architecture.

    In South Australia oil is produced in negligible amounts from Caroline 1 and in 1992 heavy crude was recovered from Sawpit 1 over a 32 m interval below 2514 m. The oil is presumably sourced from Otway Supergroup sediments. In 1994 Wynn 1 recorded the first liquid hydrocarbon flow in the Otway Basin and Killanoola 1 (1998) produced 160 kL (1000 bbl) on test, however neither are currently deemed economic. Jacaranda Ridge 2 (2007) appraised 1.2 bcf of gas and 60 000 bbl of condensate. Hollick 1 and Patrick 1 wells, both drilled in 2010, have both flowed gas on extended production test and have produced modest amounts of gas and condensate. These wells are currently tied into the Katnook Gas Plant.

    Reservoirs and sealsThe Otway Basin contains a range of reservoirs that generally exhibit good porosity and permeability, and are predominantly in non-marine fluvial sandstones. Exploration risk associated with reservoir quality and distribution is generally low, but risk associated with seal is more variable. Almost all formations from

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 12

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    Otway Basin

    VOLUTA TROUGH

    Caroline 1

    OT2012-A

    OT2012-A

    Robe

    Penola

    Beachport

    Kingston

    Mount Gambier

    Tartwaup Hinge

    S12-4

    PEL 494

    PEL 495

    PEL 496

    PEL 186

    PEL 186

    PEL 155

    PEL 127

    PEL 154

    PEL 82

    PEL 154

    PEL 496

    PEL 255

    PEL 82

    PELA 610

    21

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    Otway Basin, South Australia

    CAINOZOIC SEDIMENTS ISOPACH MAP

    PL3

    VIC

    TOR

    IA

    PL19

    PL19PL16

    ")

    ")

    ")")

    ")")

    ")

    ")

    ")")

    ")

    Marla

    Ceduna

    ADELAIDE

    Oodnadatta

    Coober Pedy

    Port Lincoln

    PortAugusta

    Leigh Creek

    Moomba

    Mount Gambier250 kmEnlargement area

    0 10 20 Kilometres

    Projection MGA Zone 54

    Otway Basin

    Petroleum tenements

    Acreage release block

    Exploration licence (PEL)

    Exploration licence application (PELA)

    Production licence (PPL)

    Retention licence (PRL)

    Offshore acreage release block

    REG 204315-019

    PL4

    Otway Basin outline

    Tartwaup Hinge

    Park or reserve –no petroleum exploration access

    Petroleum wells.

    CO2 well.

    CO2 well with oil shows.

    Dry hole.

    Dry hole with oil shows.

    Gas showsGas well

    .

    Gas well with oil shows.

    Oil and gas well.

    Oil and gas showsOil well

    . Proposed or currently drilling

    PL13

    – 0

    – -1439

    Metres

    – -1149

    – -862

    – -574

    – -287

    Figure 8 Cainozoic sediments isopach map, Otway Basin, South Australia

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 13

    Lithological zones

    Casterton Formation

    Basement

    Pretty Hill Formation sands

    Pretty Hill Formation shales /

    Laira Formation

    Sherbrook Group

    Tertiary

    Laira Fm.

    uppe

    r Saw

    pit

    shale

    mbr

    lower

    Sawpit

    shalembr

    Sawpitsandstonemember

    Pretty Hill Formation

    South Australian

    reference section

    Casterton Formation

    South Australian

    reference section

    Katnook Sandstone

    type section

    Laira Formation

    type section

    ?

    Less than

    1% M. evansii

    Cuttings

    Cores and sidewall

    cores

    P. pannosus

    C. paradoxa

    C. striatus

    upper C. hughesi

    undifferentiated F. wonthaggiensis

    upper C. australiensis

    lower F. wonthaggiensis

    lower C. hughesi

    lower C. australiensis to

    R. watherooens

    T. longus

    L. balmei

    upper F. wonthaggiensis

    200967-052

    Kalangadoo 1 Katnook 2 Sawpit 1 Robertson 1 Robertson 2 Bool Lagoon 1

    Pretty Hill Fm

    Palynological zones

    Windermere / Katnook Sandstone

    Eumeralla Formation

    Luncindale

    Kingston SE

    Bool Lagoon 1

    Robertson 2Robertson 1

    Sawpit 1

    Katnook 2

    Kalangadoo 1

    Mount

    Gambier

    Robe

    Beachport

    Naracoorte

    Penola

    Millicent

    Eumeralla Formation

    South Australian

    reference section

    Depth(m)

    Depth(m)

    Depth(m)

    Depth(m)

    Depth(m)

    Depth(m)

    0 0

    500 500

    1000 1000

    1500 1500

    2000 2000

    2500 2500

    0

    500

    1000

    1500

    2000

    2500

    3000

    0

    500

    1000

    1500

    0

    500

    1000

    1500

    0

    500

    Figure 9 Wireline log correlation, Kalangadoo 1 to Bool Lagoon 1

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 14

    Laira

    Fm.

    ?

    200967-053

    Lithological zones

    Basement

    Pretty Hill Formation Sands

    Pretty Hill Formation shales /

    Laira Formation

    Sherbrook Group

    Tertiary

    Cuttings

    Cores and sidewall cores

    N. asperus

    M. diversus and above

    L. balmei

    N. senectus

    C. striatus

    upper F. wonthaggiensis

    C. hughesi

    P. pannosus

    upper C. australiensis

    lower F. wonthaggiensis

    undifferentiated F. wonthaggiensis

    C. paradoxa

    Palynological zones

    Windermere / Katnook Sandstone

    Eumeralla Formation

    Lake George 1 St Clair 1 Reedy Creek 1 Lake Eliza 1 Lake Eliza 2 Lake Hawdon 1 Camelback 1

    Kingston SE

    Lucindale

    Penola

    Mount

    Gambier

    Beachport

    Robe

    Millicent

    Naracoorte

    Camelback 1

    Lake Eliza 1

    Lake George 1

    St Clair 1

    Reedy Creek 1

    Lake Eliza 2Lake Hawdon 1

    Depth(m)

    Depth(m)

    Depth(m)

    Depth(m)

    Depth(m)

    Depth(m)

    Depth(m)

    0

    500

    1000

    3000

    0

    500

    1000

    1500

    2000

    2500

    0

    500

    1000

    1500

    2000

    2500

    0

    500

    1000

    0

    500

    1000

    0

    500

    1000

    1500

    2000

    0

    500

    1000

    1500

    Figure 10 Stratigraphic correlation, Lake George 1 to Camelback 1

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 15

    200967-066

    Lithological zones

    Waarre Sandstone

    Copa Formation

    Eumeralla Formation

    Laira Formation

    Basement

    Belfast Mudstone andsimilar facies

    Timboon Sandstone

    Tertiary

    Flaxman Formation

    Argonaut Member

    Paaratte Formation

    Cuttings

    Cores and sidewall cores

    M. diversus

    L. balmei

    T. longus

    T. lillei

    C. triplex

    A. distocarinatus

    N. senectus

    C. striatus

    C. hughesi

    upper F. wonthaggiensis

    C. paradoxa

    T. pachyexinus

    Palynological zones

    P. pannosus

    Tartwaup

    Hinge

    Coastal

    Hinge

    Eumeralla Formation

    reference sections

    Flaxman Formation

    reference section

    Waarre Sandstone

    reference section

    Belfast Mudstone

    reference section

    Paaratte Formation

    reference section

    Timboon

    Sandstone

    reference

    section

    Copa Formation

    reference sections

    Less than

    1% M. evansii

    Kalangadoo 1Burrungule 1

    Caroline 1 Breaksea Reef 1

    Kingston SE

    Lucindale

    Penola

    Beachport

    Robe

    Millicent

    Naracoorte

    Kalangadoo 1

    Caroline 1

    Breaksea Reef 1

    Burrungule 1

    Mount Gambier

    Depth(m)

    Depth(m)

    Depth(m) Depth

    (m)

    500

    1000

    1500

    2000

    2500

    0

    500

    1000

    1500

    2000

    0

    500

    1000

    1500

    2000

    2500

    0

    3000

    500

    1000

    1500

    2000

    2500

    0

    3000

    3500

    4000

    N

    S

    GR DT

    GR DT

    GR DT GR DT

    Figure 11 Stratigraphic correlation, Kalangadoo 1 to Breaksea Reef 1

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 16

    Palaeozoic basement to early Tertiary sands are potential reservoirs.

    The most important and oldest established reservoir in the South Australian sector of the Otway Basin is the Early Cretaceous Pretty Hill Formation, which hosts the commercial Katnook, Ladbroke Grove, Haselgrove, Haselgrove South and Redman gas fields, and flowed significant amounts of oil, condensate and gas from Wynn 1, Killanoola 1, Jacaranda Ridge 1 and 2.

    In the Katnook Field, Pretty Hill sands have porosities in excess of 25%, permeabilities in excess of 1000 mD, and flowed over 451 000 m3 (16.01 mmcf) gas per day on test. Reservoir permeability does not appear to decrease with increasing depth of burial, although only the upper part of the Pretty Hill Formation is generally of good quality. Reservoir quality in the Windermere Sandstone Member is excellent, although the low relief structures can make it difficult to avoid water production problems.

    Some intra-Pretty Hill Formation shales and the Laira Formation form good top seals to the underlying Pretty Hill reservoirs, however where shallow faulting penetrates the Laira Formation, structural permeability controlled by the in situ stress field / fault reactivation is a significant risk.

    The Windermere Sandstone Member–Katnook Sandstone reservoir has had commercial gas production from Katnook 1 and a 2 m column exists within Crankshaft 1. But Eumeralla Formation along the northern and western flank of the Otway Basin is a poor seal and the resulting thin hydrocarbon columns have had water production problems. The Windermere and Katnook Sandstones are usually thicker toward the centres of the Early Cretaceous troughs.

    The Waarre Sandstone – Flaxman Formation/Belfast Mudstone reservoir/seal couplet hosts the commercial Caroline CO2 field. This proves the viability of this system as a potential hydrocarbon trap within the southern portions of OT2012-A, south of the Tartwaup Hinge.

    Petroleum entrapmentIn the northern part of the basin, where exploration is for Otway Supergroup targets, Pretty Hill Formation reservoirs of the fields in the Penola Trough comprise complex, steep sided, E–W tilted fault blocks, with the upper Sawpit

    shale member and Laira Formation acting as the seals. Common palaeohydrocarbon columns have been intersected and leakage is probably caused by the creation of structural permeability across the regional seal. The location of leakage depends on the interaction between the seal, associated faults, and the regional stress field.

    Traps for Windermere reservoirs comprise much lower relief domes (close to the resolution limit of seismic mapping) that are generally un-faulted, and sealed by the Eumeralla Formation. The base Eumeralla seal is likely to improve towards the SW. Considerable potential exists for stratigraphic traps, either as meandering fluvial channels in the Eumeralla Formation (as in Katnook Field), or as pinch-outs of the Pretty Hill Formation to the north.

    The Flaxman–Waarre units have proven to be excellent gas reservoirs in the Victorian portion of the basin, and in South Australia contain the Caroline CO2 field. Traps are generally NE tilted fault blocks, bounded by closely spaced rift parallel faults. Offshore, potential exists for overpressured submarine slope-fan traps encased within the Belfast Mudstone (Fig. 11).

    Undiscovered conventional resourcesThe Otway Basin in South Australia is an immature exploration province, with high potential for further discoveries (Fig. 12). Although gas discoveries to date are relatively modest in size (average recoverable reserves per field is ~23 PJ (21 bcf)), some discoveries in the offshore Victorian portion of the basin are an order of magnitude larger (up to 350 PJ (~321 bcf) in the Minerva Field and ~0.8 tcf in the Thylacine discovery). Oil discoveries have only recently been made, and there is considerable potential for significant oil discoveries in the future. Table 1 summarises the undiscovered potential for recoverable sales gas resources in

    Table 1 Undiscovered recoverable sales gas resources of the onshore Otway Basin (South Australia)

    PLAY UNDISCOVERED POTENTIAL PJ (~bcf) Probability that the ultimate potential will exceed the stated value: 90% 50% 10%

    Waarre–Flaxman 30 (27) 150 (137) 560 (513)

    Crayfish 120 (110) 680 (623) 2330 (2135)

    Total 180 (165) 900 (825) 2760 (2530)

    Note: Totals do not add arithmetically as they are Monte Carlo simulations. Current 2000.

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 17

    thought to be the source of commercial gas accumulations now in production in the Penola Trough region. It comprises pre-rift to early syn-rift interbedded lacustrine shales, siltstones and sandstones and volcanic lithologies that have only been sparsely intersected. The formation reaches a maximum known thickness of 230 m in Casterton 1 and 43 m in Sawpit 1 although it is thought to be up to 500m in the Robe Trough based on seismic interpretation. To date, the formation has been mostly intersected on the northern flanks where it is marginally mature for oil (as evidenced by oil shows in several wells) but not viable as a shale gas play.

    TOC values range from 0.6 to 9 percent, averaging 1.9 percent (39 samples; 6 wells). The Tmax vs HI cross plot shows that these organic rich shales are Type II (algal rich oil prone kerogen) to Type III (Gas prone) at the threshold of the oil window (Fig.12). However, in the deeper portions of the Penola, Robe and Saint Clair troughs they are expected to be gas prone with liquids potential.

    Maturity modelling indicates that the Casterton Formation lies within the gas window at depths in excess of 3800 m in the Penola Trough and Robe Trough (Fig. 15) but may be locally shallower in the Robe Trough where seismic coverage is poor.

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    Figure 12 HI vs Tmax plot, Casterton Formation

    the key plays of the onshore South Australian portion of the basin. The offshore potential is as yet unquantified.

    The unconventional oil and gas potential of the Otway Basin has yet to be evaluated.

    EXPLORATION POTENTIALThe OT2012-A block is being offered at a time when the economics controlling commercialisation in the Otway Basin are good, with the entire SE Australian gas market accessible via the SEAGAS pipeline and the international oil price at high levels. Both conventional oil and wet gas targets and unconventional shale gas and shale oil targets and discussed below.

    Five main plays exist within these areas:

    f The proven gas play from within the Penola Trough, i.e. the Pretty Hill Sandstone, shale-rich Laira Formation reservoir-seal couplet,

    f The Jacaranda Ridge Sandstone/Sawpit Sandstone reservoir members of the Pretty Hill Formation overlain by Sawpit shale seal,

    f The Flaxman Formation/Waarre Sandstone reservoirs overlain by Belfast Mudstone seal which lies in the oil window in the Voluta Trough,

    f The Casterton Formation shale oil play on the flanks of the northern Early Cretaceous troughs (Penola, Robe and St Clair Troughs), and

    f The Casterton Formation/Sawpit shale gas play on the flanks of the northern Early Cretaceous troughs (Penola, Robe and St Clair Troughs).

    The latter 2 play types are discussed in more detail below arising from increasing worldwide focus on unconventional shale gas and shale oil resource potential.

    Shale gas playsThe principal targets for shale gas in the onshore Otway Basin are thick basal shale sequences within the Otway Supergroup, in particular the Casterton Formation and the Upper and Lower Sawpit shales (Fig. 5). These non-marine shales all have good shale gas potential in the deeper portions of the basin and are discussed below.

    Casterton FormationThe Casterton Formation represents the richest source rock of the Otway Supergroup that is

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 18

    Somerton Energy is exploring the northern margin of the Otway Basin in Victoria and estimates the Casterton Formation, within PEP 171 Basin could contain more than 25 trillion cubic feet of gas and significant oil volumes.

    Upper and Lower Sawpit shalesThe Upper and Lower Sawpit shales represent lacustrine deposits at the base of the Crayfish Group and can reach thicknesses up 900 m and 250 m thick). The shales are better developed on the northern flank of the Penola Trough, away from the axial drainage in the central part of the trough which is dominated by stacked fluvial channel fill of Pretty Hill Sandstone or Sawpit Sandstone (Boult and Hibburt, 2002).

    Rock Eval analyses of samples from the Upper and Lower Sawpit Shales indicate that the shale is dominated by Type III gas prone kerogen with some Type II algal rich kerogen present (Fig. 13). TOC values range 0.37 to 2.61 percent and average 1.12 percent (10 wells, 87 samples).

    Maturity modelling in the Katnook area of the Penola Trough indicates that peak gas generation from the Casterton Formation and Upper and Lower Sawpit Shales occurred in the Maastrichtian at ~73 Ma and has remained in the gas window to present day at depths below ~3800 m (Fig. 15).

    Access to infrastructure is a key factor in addressing the economic viability of both the Casterton and Sawpit Shale gas plays. Main exploration risks are:

    f The complex faulting resulting from the rift through to passive margin tectonic history which could adsorb energy from hydraulic fracturing, and

    f The prospective shale units have yet to be fully penetrated in the centre of the Penola Trough so an understanding of gas saturation and likelihood of water drive is yet to be established.

    Shale oil playCasterton FormationAs previously discussed, the Casterton Formation represents the richest source rock of the Otway Supergroup and the most likely to be prospective for shale oil. The Tmax vs HI cross plot shows that these organic rich shales are Type II (algal rich oil prone kerogen) to Type III (gas prone) at the threshold of the oil window (Fig. 12).

    Maturity modelling suggest that the northern flank of the Otway Basin represents the most prospective area for shale oil play (Fig.15) where the Casterton Formation lies in the oil window at depths between 2300 m to ~3050 m (early

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    Figure 13 HI vs Tmax plot, Basal unnamed shale/Sawpit Shale

    200967-153

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    Figure 14 HI vs Tmax plot, Eumeralla Formation

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 19

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    Otway Basin outline

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    Figure 15 Maturity at Casterton–Base Pretty Hill Formation

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 20

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    Figure 16 Maturity at Top Crayfish Group

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 21

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    Figure 17 Maturity at Top Eumeralla Formation

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 22

    mature for oil; Ro 0.7 to 1.0 percent) and ~3050 m to 3800 (later mature for oil; Ro 1.0 to 1.3 percent) in the Robe, Penola, Rivoli and St. Clair troughs.

    Infrastructure and marketsEight commercial gas fields have been discovered in the Otway Basin in South Australia and total original gas-in-place is estimated at 128 PJ (121 x 1012 Btu) sales gas.

    Cumulative production for the Katnook Complex for the period 1991 to end December 2011 is 78.74 PJ sales gas and 68 822 KL (432 875 bbl) condensate. Production rates are in decline with 387.7 TJ of sales gas and 919 KL condensate produced in 2011.

    Carbon dioxide is also produced from Caroline 1 well with cumulative production of 766 704 tonnes of saleable CO2 since production commenced in 1968. In 2011, 9000 tonnes of saleable CO2 was produced.

    Epic Energy owns and operates a 46 km long pipeline, 150 mm diameter, from the Katnook gas processing plant to the Apcel paper mill at Snuggery, 7 km SE of Millicent (Fig. 1). A second line, also 150 mm diameter and 19 km long, runs from this line to Mt Gambier. A third line, 50 mm diameter, runs from Katnook due east for 4.5 km to the Safries potato chip factory, 9 km south of Penola. The pipelines were constructed in 1990 and have a maximum operating pressure of 10 000 kPa (1450 psi). A fourth line, 12 km long and 89 mm diameter, was constructed in the second half of 2000, connecting Kalangadoo to Nangwarry timber mill. None of these pipelines have compression installed.

    Gas from producing wells in the Katnook, Haselgrove, Haselgrove South and Redman gas fields is piped to a gas treatment plant located 300 m SE of Katnook 1 and built in 1991. The plant was operated by Origin Energy Resources, however in July 2008, Adelaide Energy Limited (operator of PEL 255 which includes the Jacaranda Ridge 2 discovery) announced that it had purchased Origin’s Otway Basin interests including the Katnook Plant. In February 2012 Beach Energy completed a 100% takeover of Adelaide Energy and has in turn taken ownership of the SE assets. Production was been suspended in October 2011 (due to re-commence shortly).

    The gas from these fields requires a minimum of processing to yield sales gas, which is then sold at the pipeline outlet from the Katnook Plant. The main gas customers are the Kimberly Clark paper mill near Millicent, where gas replaced the use of LPG and brown coal briquettes; the Safries potato chip factory near Penola, which was attracted to the area by the natural gas supply; and domestic and industrial customers in Mt Gambier, which were previously supplied tempered LPG via a reticulation network. Condensate is stored onsite at the Katnook Plant before transportation by road tanker to the Shell Refinery, Geelong, Victoria.

    Opportunities exist for small power stations in a more competitive electricity market. The strategic location of the Ladbroke Grove Field adjacent to the main electricity link between Adelaide and Victoria, led to Origin Energy seeing an opportunity to use the high-CO2 gas to fire a 40 MW power station. Gas sourced from the Ladbroke Grove Field supplied power into the national electricity grid from early 2000 until late 2006.

    In 2002–03, the SEA Gas pipeline was constructed to transport offshore Otway gas from the Iona gas facility in Victoria to Adelaide. Origin Energy Retail Ltd constructed and commissioned the SESA Pipeline in 2005. This 45 km pipeline connects the SEA Gas Pipeline in Victoria to Epic Energy’s South East Pipeline System and the Ladbroke Grove Power Station. As gas production from Ladbroke Grove Field ceased in late 2006, sales gas from the SESA pipeline now feeds both turbines of the Ladbroke Grove Power Station.

    In addition, the South East of South Australia and western Victoria exhibit a high diversity of local industry — consequently, opportunities for gas marketing linked to industry development in the region are good given the industry base and service provision in the region. The region is strategically located between the major cities of Adelaide and Melbourne and the eastern Australian market.

    LAND ACCESSNational parks and reservesThere are a number of national parks and other areas of remnant native vegetation in the area, in some of which exploration is permitted, and

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 23

    in others their small size makes it possible to work around them (Fig. 18). The reserves have been created to conserve the best examples of vegetation and landforms in the region. There are three types of South Australian reserves including conservation parks, national parks and regional reserves. The conditions of access vary from park to park, based upon the type of reserve classification, the activity proposed and its likely impact on the environment.

    Environmental regulationEnergy Resources Division acts as a one-stop shop for explorers in obtaining any necessary environmental approvals on the occasions when they are required from other government agencies. Approvals to conduct field operations etc. are first submitted to DMITRE, which arranges distribution to the other relevant government agencies for comment and then issues the necessary approvals. Energy Resources Division personnel are available to assist licensees prepare the necessary paperwork.

    An objective based co-regulatory approach applies in SA for the regulation of the upstream petroleum industry to reduce compliance costs and deliver better environmental outcomes. As this is a move away from prescriptive regulation and the pre-existing ‘command and control’ regime a change in both culture and method are required. There will still be inspection of field operations, including audits by DMITRE authorised officers.

    The following relevant documents have been produced by DMITRE Energy Resources Division and are available in hard copy or digital formats:

    Cockshell, D.C. and Langley, K.R., 2001 – Statement of environmental objectives seismic operations in the Otway Basin, SA. DMITRE RB 2001/020.

    Roberts, D., 2001, Environmental impact report for seismic operations in the Otway Basin SA. DMITRE RB 2001/010. (2nd edition).

    European heritageA number of sites of European heritage significance such as historic buildings and structures and geological monuments occur in the region. These are indicated on environmental sensitivity maps held by DMITRE. The majority

    of the sites are small and easily avoided by exploration activities.

    Aboriginal heritage and native titleIn South Australia it is an offence to disturb or destroy Aboriginal sites, objects or remains. Standard procedures for determining the presence of Aboriginal heritage prior to the commencement of activities have been determined. These procedures involve consulting with the relevant Aboriginal organisation and maintaining a watch for sites, objects or remains during activities. Generally the sites are no larger than a few hundred square metres and are easily avoided. Since the inception of the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1988, there have been no conflicts between Aboriginal heritage sites and exploration or production activities in South Australia. Licence holders are encouraged to develop a dialogue with regard to Aboriginal heritage and related matters with Aboriginal people having associations with their licence area. Native title may be applicable on non freehold land. There are currently no native title applications over the areas on offer, and native title is not likely to be a significant issue in the SA Otway Basin area, as most land is freehold or permanent leasehold.

    Geothermal Exploration LicencesA number of Geothermal Exploration Licences (GELs) coincide with petroleum exploration and production licences in the Otway Basin region (Fig. 19). The GEL licensee must be notified of activities in PELs, and may object to the activity and claim compensation if their activities or resources are affected. Likewise the GEL holder must notify the PEL holder of their activities, and the PEL holder may also object and claim compensation.

    Associated Activities LicencesAssociated Activities Licences (AALs) are now available under the Petroleum and Geothermal Energy Act 2000. These licences allow explorers to undertake activities (e.g. seismic surveys) or establish facilities in proximity to petroleum exploration, retention and production licences. AALs are typically used to enable the recording of full-fold seismic within a PEL by recording tails of seismic lines outside the licence area.

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 24

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    Otway Basin

    OT2012-A

    OT2012-A

    Robe

    Penola

    Beachport

    Kingston

    Mount Gambier

    Bernouilli (CR)

    Upper SouthEast (MP)

    Lower SouthEast (MP)

    Upper SouthEast (MP)

    Lower South East (MP)

    Lake Hawdon South (CP)

    Lake Frome (CP)

    Kungari (CP)

    Woakwine (CP)

    Beachport (CP)

    Little Dip (CP)

    Lake St Clair (CP)

    Douglas Point (CP)

    Carpenter Rocks (CP)

    Canunda (NP)

    Canunda (NP)

    Penguin Island (CP)

    Little Dip (CP)

    Bool Lagoon (GR)

    Mount Scott (CP)

    Fairview (CP)

    LakeRobe(GR)

    Furner (CP)

    EwensPonds (CP)

    Glen Roy (CP)

    PiccaninniePonds (CP)

    Hacks Lagoon (CP)

    Penola (CP)

    Mary Seymour (CP)

    Bucks Lake (GR)

    Nene Valley (CP)

    Naracoorte Caves (NP)

    Lower GlenelgRiver (CP)

    Butcher Gap (CP)

    Penambol (CP)

    TantanoolaCaves (CP)

    Guichen Bay (CP)

    Vivigani Ardune (CP)

    Grass Tree (CP)

    Calectasia (CP)

    Belt Hill (CP)

    Mullinger Swamp (CP)

    Dingley Dell (CP)

    Big Heath (CP)

    Beachport (CP)

    TelfordScrub (CP)

    Reedy Creek (CP)

    Gower (CP)

    Baudin Rocks (CP)

    S12-4

    PEL 494

    PEL 495

    PEL 496

    PEL 186

    PEL 186

    PEL 155

    PEL 127

    PEL 154

    PEL 154

    PEL 82PEL 496

    PEL 255

    PEL 82

    PELA 610

    21

    62168

    202

    141°0'E140°30'E140°0'E139°30'E37

    °0'S

    37°3

    0'S

    38°0

    'S

    Otway Basin, South Australia

    NATIONAL PARKS and RESERVES

    PL3

    VIC

    TOR

    IA

    PL19

    PL19PL16

    0 25 50 Kilometres

    Datum GDA 94 - Projection MGA Zone 54

    Petroleum tenements

    Acreage release block

    Exploration licence (PEL)

    Exploration licence application (PELA)

    Production licence (PPL)

    Retention licence (PRL)

    Offshore acreage release block

    REG 204315-026

    PL4

    Petroleum wells.

    CO2 well.

    CO2 well with oil shows.

    Dry hole.

    Dry hole with oil shows.

    Gas showsGas well

    .

    Gas well with oil shows.

    Oil and gas well.

    Oil and gas showsOil well

    . Proposed or currently drilling

    PL13

    Otway Basin outline

    Parks and ReservesParks or reserve - with petroleum exploration access

    Park or reserve –no petroleum exploration access

    Marine Parks Network

    Figure 18 National parks and reserves

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 25

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    .

    ")

    ")

    Otway Basin

    OT2012-A

    OT2012-A

    Robe

    Penola

    Beachport

    Kingston

    Mount Gambier

    Snuggery

    Ladbrook GroveHeat Flow 5

    Heat Flow 1

    Heat Flow 3

    Heat Flow 4

    Heat Flow 1A

    Salamander 1

    Heat Flow 3A

    GEL 214

    GEL 170

    GEL 223

    GEL 291

    GEL 484

    GEL 498

    GEL 498

    GEL 212

    141°0'E140°30'E140°0'E139°30'E37

    °0'S

    37°3

    0'S

    38°0

    'S

    Otway Basin, South Australia

    GEOTHERMAL LICENCES

    VIC

    TOR

    IA

    ")

    ")

    ")")

    ")")

    ")

    ")

    ")")

    ")

    Marla

    Ceduna

    ADELAIDE

    Oodnadatta

    Coober Pedy

    Port Lincoln

    PortAugusta

    Leigh Creek

    Moomba

    Mount Gambier250 kmEnlargement area

    0 25 50 Kilometres

    Datum GDA 94 - Projection MGA Zone 54

    Otway Basin

    Petroleum tenements

    Acreage release block

    REG 204315-022

    Otway Basin outline

    Park or reserve –no petroleum exploration access

    Geothermal wells.

    Abandoned well.

    Proposed or currently drillingSuspended well

    Geothermal tenements

    Exploration licence (GEL)

    Infrastructure") Power station

    Transmission lines

    Figure 19 Geothermal licences

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 26

    CLIMATE AND LAND USEThe climate in the South East is characterised by mild dry summers and cold wet winters, consequently exploration activities are generally conducted in the summer and autumn months of December through to April. However, with advanced preparation of sites it is possible to conduct activities year round. The main land use in the area is for mixed farming ranging from sheep and cattle grazing to crops and wine grapes. Most land is freehold, and as such native title is not an issue in the area (although Aboriginal heritage issues may need to be considered). The South East is characterised by a near-surface unconfined aquifer which is the main water supply for the landholders, and this requires consideration while conducting exploration activities.

    BIDDING AND AWARD PROCESSWinning bidders will be selected on the basis of the total five-year work program bid. The work program must be completed within the overall area of the PEL. It must include a statement of exploration operations the applicant proposes to carry out in the first five-year licence term. It is expected that at least one petroleum exploration well would be included in the program.

    Bids will be assessed using the philosophies expressed in ‘Selecting the winning bid’. For a review of how this process has been applied see ‘Shaping the Cooper Basin 21st century renaissance’. The specific scoring scheme is detailed in ‘OT2012 Bid Assessment Policy’ included on this DVD.

    In general, it is important to note that the timing of well drilling and seismic or other data acquisition will be taken into account. Key assessment criteria include:

    f The number and timing of exploration wells to be drilled in the PEL.

    f The number of years the applicant is prepared to guarantee the program.

    f The extent to which proposed wells are supported by existing or new programmed seismic data.

    f The amount and nature of seismic surveying (i.e. 2D versus 3D) to be carried out and its timing.

    f Other data acquisition (e.g. gravity, aeromagnetic or geochemical surveys).

    f Seismic reprocessing to be carried out.In addition to the above criteria, where bids are similar, the benefits of the introduction of new explorers into the area may be taken into account. In the case of cascading bids (i.e. multiple or hybrid bids by one applicant or joint venture), only the highest bid will be considered.

    The closing date for OT2012-A applications is 4.00 pm, Thursday 4th April 2013.

    The Minister is expected to announce the winning bidder, together with details of work programs, by late May 2013.

    CONTACT INFORMATIONComments, inquiries and applications for exploration licences may be addressed to:

    Executive Director, Energy Resources Division Department for Manufacturing, Innovation, Trade, Resources and Energy Level 7, 101 Grenfell Street Adelaide SA 5000 AUSTRALIA

    Phone National (08) 8463 3204 Fax National (08) 8463 3229

    Phone International +61 8 8463 3204 Fax International +61 8463 3229

    Web www.petroleum.dmitre.sa.gov.au

    The envelope containing your application must be marked ‘Confidential — contains PEL application’.

    REFERENCESBOULT, P.J., 2005. Morum Sub-basin petroleum system. South Australia. Department of Primary Industries and Resources. Narrated PowerPoint presentation (unpublished).

    BOULT, P.J., CAMAC, B.A. and DAVIDS, A.W., 2002. 3D fault modelling and assessment of top seal structural permeability — Penola Trough, onshore Otway Basin. APPEA Journal, 42(1):151-166.

    BOULT, P.J. and HIBBURT, J.E. (Eds), 2002. The petroleum geology of South Australia. Volume 1: Otway Basin. 2nd edn. South Australia. Department of Primary Industries and Resources. Petroleum Geology of South Australia Series.

    EDWARDS, D.S., STRUCKMEYER, H.I.M., BRADSHAW, M.T. and SKINNER, J.E., 1999. Geochemical characteristics of Australia’s southern margin petroleum systems. APPEA Journal, 39(1):297-321.

    JONES, R.M., BOULT, P.J., HILLIS, R.R., MILDRREN, S.D. and KALDI, J., 2000. Integrated hydrocarbon seal evaluation in the Penola Trough, Otway Basin. APPEA Journal, 40(1):194-211.

  • Otway Basin OT2012-A 27

    JORAND, C., KRASSAY, A. and HALL, L., 2010. Otway Basin Hot Sedimentary Aquifers and SEEBASE Project. South Australia. Department of Primary Industries and Resources. Report Book, 2010/00010.

    LOVIBOND, R., SUTTHILL, R.J. and SKINNER, J.E., 1995. The hydrocarbon potential of the Penola Trough, Otway Basin. APPEA Journal, 35(1):358-371.

    LYON P.J., BOULT P.J., HILLIS R.R. and BIERBRAUER K., 2007. Basement controls on fault development in the Penola Trough, Otway Basin, and implications for fault-bounded hydrocarbon traps. Australian Journal of Earth Sciences, 54:675-689.

    MCCLAY, K.R., LONGLEY, I.M., FITZPATRICK, J.P., KING, S.J. and SOMERVILLE, R.M., 2001. Analogue modelling of extensional fault architecture: comparisons with natural rift fault systems. In: Hill, K.C. and Bernecker, T. (Eds). Eastern Australasian Basins Symposium, A refocussed energy perspective for the future, Melbourne, 2001. Petroleum Exploration Society of Australia. Special Publication, pp. 573-584.

    MORTON, J.G.G., 1990. Revisions to stratigraphic nomenclature of the Otway Basin, South Australia. South Australia. Geological Survey. Quarterly Geological Notes, 116:2-19.

    NORVICK, M.S. and SMITH, M.A., 2001. Mapping the plate tectonic reconstruction of southern and southeastern Australia and implications for petroleum systems. APPEA Journal, 41(1):15-35.

    PALMOWSKI, D, HILL, K.C and HOFFMAN, N., 2004. Structural-stratigraphic styles and evolution of the offshore Otway Basin – a structural seismic analysis. In: Boult, P.J., Johns, D.R. and Lang, S.C. (Eds), PESA’s Eastern Australasian Basin Symposium II, Adelaide 2004. Petroleum Exploration Society of Australia. Special Publication, pp. 75-96.

    TEASDALE, J., PRYER, L., STUART-SMITH, P., ROMINE, K., LOUTIT, T., ETHERIDGE, M., SHI, Z., FOSS, C., VIZY, J., HENLEY, P. and KYAN, D., 2001. Otway and Sorell basins SEEBASE Project. SRK Consulting report, SRK Project Code: GA701. South Australia. Department of Primary Industries and Resources. Open file Envelope, 9889 (unpublished).

    CONTENTSTHE OFFERFigure 1Figure 2Figure 3

    PRODUCTS AND DATAINTRODUCTIONFigure 4

    PETROLEUM GEOLOGYStructural settingFigure 5Figure 6Figure 7Figure 8Figure 9Figure 10Figure 11

    StratigraphySource rock distribution and maturity modellingFigure 12Figure 13Figure 14Figure 15Figure 16Figure 17

    Reservoirs and sealsPetroleum entrapmentUndiscovered resourcesTable 1

    EXPLORATION POTENTIALShale gas playsCasterton FormationUpper and Lower Sawpit shales

    Shale oil playCasterton Formation

    Infrastructure and markets

    LAND ACCESSNational parks and reservesFigure 18

    Environmental regulationEuropean heritageAboriginal heritage and native titleGeothermal Exploration LicencesFigure 19

    Associated Activities Licences

    CLIMATE AND LAND USEBIDDING AND AWARD PROCESSCONTACT INFORMATIONREFERENCES