The survey, which Metgasco said was the first comprehensive survey in the basin in more than 10 years, was shot by Terrex Seismic over PEL 13, PEL 16 and PEL 426.

Data from the survey has been provided to Velseis Processing with processing expected to be completed within six weeks. Interpretation and mapping work will start subsequently.

Metgasco said integration of the latest survey with existing data will update the understanding of the coal seam gas and conventional hydrocarbon potential of the basin.

About 35km of seismic was shot in PEL 16 over three existing leads with most of the data focused on the Mackellar structure, located updip from Metgasco's Riflebird-E14 gas discovery.

Managing Director David Johnson said the results from the program would allow Metgasco to refine and complete its planning for an appraisal drilling program of the prospective Mackellar structure.

The company also shot about 85km of seismic in PEL 426 and about 48km in PEL 13.

This gives Metgasco a 50% interest in PEL 426 and a 50% interest in the conventional hydrocarbon rights in PEL 13 from Molopo Australia.

Most seismic data acquired in these permits was obtained over existing leads identified by seismic reprocessing and reinterpretation of historic data by Metgasco as operator of these permits.

Metgasco plans to drill an exploration well in PEL 426 in the second half of this year to evaluate the Walloon Coal Measures as well as the Heifer Creek sandstone. The well location will be finalised by August or September.