In a bid to get an initial reserves estimate, the Brisbane-based company has lodged technical data from the project with Denver-based MHA Petroleum Consultants.

“Further feedback from MHA to date has suggested that initial gas flows to surface from pilot wells provides confidence in a CSG development of this nature,” Sunshine said.

Sunshine managing director Tony Gilby said the Denver-based reserves certifier received the Lacerta data set last week and was now working on an initial reserves statement.

“MHA was impressed by the quality and depth of the Lacerta technical data set provided by Sunshine and also with the design and implementation of the Lacerta exploration and appraisal strategy to date,” he said.

“MHA are recognised as experts in the field of CSG reserve certification and have considerable experience in certifying Walloon CSG reserves in Queensland.”

Gilby expected Sunshine would receive the results slightly later than originally forecast.

“This is now unlikely to be prior to 30 June, 2007 due to minor delays experienced as a result of recent heavy rain and the consequent slower than expected completion of step-out pilot wells,” he said.