The well’s primary target is the Cattamarra Coal Measures at 3000 metres with a secondary target in the Yarragadee Formation at 2100m.

It is estimated the well will take 12-13 days to get to the Yarragadee zone and a further 17 days to reach the primary Cattamarra interval.

Empire chief Craig Marshall said there was a possibility of up to 557 billion cubic feet gas in place.

Century Rig 24 is rigging up on location and is anticipated to start drilling from the pre-drilled 250 metre mark.

Marshall said that following the recent Queensland tragedy a very rigorous safety check was being carried out before drilling commenced. He added that Empire would not rule out any further equity farmouts, in order to reduce their risk.

Partners are Empire Oil (49.211%), CalEnergy (40.789%) and Nexus Energy (10%).

The author owns Empire shares.