Norman Moore

Norman Moore

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    Invitation to WA's oil, gas explorers to apply for permits

    27/10/2000 10:24 AM
     
    27/10/00

    Companies interested in exploring for oil or gas are being invited to apply for permits covering under-explored areas of Western Australia.

    Mines Minister Norman Moore said five discrete areas released today on the North West Shelf, as well as an invitation to apply for vacant onshore areas, should encourage additional exploration investment to the State.

    Mr Moore said the North West Shelf areas were highly prospective and close to existing infrastructure.

    “After the discovery of gas last year at the Vines-1 well in the Canning Basin, and with oil production planned to start at Rough Range this year, there appears to be an increased interest in onshore WA,” he said.

    “That’s why I am sure the invitation to apply for vacant onshore areas, gazetted today by the Department of Minerals and Energy, will attract interest.”

    Mr Moore said acceptance of the permits would result in increased exploration and hopefully further progress WA ’s oil and gas sector, which produced petroleum valued at a record high of $7.6 billion in 1999-2000.

    “Uncovering our State’s onshore petroleum resources will play an important role in WA’s economic future as well as encourage regional development,” he said.

    Applications close at 4pm on Thursday, February 1, 2001.

    Media contacts:
    James Bowie (08) 9222 3527
    Hartley Joynt, Minister’s office 9321 1444

    How to Apply:
    WA has a work program bidding system, details of which are available in the relevant application package available on request from the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Petroleum Division at Mineral House, 100 Plain Street, East Perth. Contact Margaret Beall: Telephone 61 8 9222 3278. Fax 61 8 9222 3799.
    Email

    State Waters Specific Areas
    The five discrete areas being released on the North West Shelf are shown on the State Waters 2000 Acreage Release map which are available on request.

    Vacant Onshore Areas
    Plans showing the available vacant onshore areas (not under licence or application or otherwise excluded) can be viewed and purchased through the department’s Information Centre, First Floor, Mineral House, 100 Plain Street, East Perth, Western Australia. Telephone 61 8 9222 3626. Fax 61 8 9222 3444.
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