Hosted by the Australian Journal of Mining, the event precedes the Australia & PNG Gas conference, also organised by AJM, at the same venue December 5-6.

The first day of the coal methane conference includes Australian case studies of CBM players Metgasco and Comet Ridge, as well as CMM companies Energy Developments Ltd and Xstrata.

Two round table discussions will focus on increasing the understanding between producers and customers, and the access, costs and regulations of the delivery of gas to markets via pipelines.

The second day opens with a keynote international address focusing on CO2 storage in coals.

Origin Energy will provide an update on its Spring Valley CBM project and Arrow Energy will discuss the risks, rewards and stakeholder expectations of the industry.

The University of Queensland will outline CBM and CMM research and development, while US-based Higgs Technologies will discuss the failure in coals and production implications.

A 'research and development'-based roundtable discussion will focus on enhancing CBM productivity and reserves, reducing operating costs, water treatment and use, reducing D&C costs and improving exploration geology.

Two half-day pre-conference briefings will be held on November 30, for which separate bookings are required.

The first briefing will see Ian Palmer from Higgs Technologies discuss new aspects, field data and best practices in CBM well completions and production.

Meanwhile, briefing-two involves Deacons partner Michael Joyce discuss water management as a key component in development assessment.

The conference will be held at the Brisbane Marriott Hotel, Queensland.

For more information and conference updates visit online www.theajmonline.com

To register, call (02) 9080 4307, fax (02) 9290 3844, email registration@informa.com.au, or see the website.