The well, which was intended to define the northern extent of the Gerdes Wilcox field, encountered three of the field pay zones, at 6000 feet (1828m), 7600 feet and 8150 feet, the Perth-based company said.

“However, these were generally in off-structural positions, resulting in thin pay columns of up to 10 feet (3m),” executive director Caroline Bentley said.

“The results of the well have defined the field area as being in the previously estimated range, of 250-300 acres.”

Production testing of Peterson-1 is expected to start in the next seven to 10 days.

To date, 11 out of 14 wells drilled by Amadeus at Lavaca County have been discoveries, a success rate of 79%.

Following its latest success, the Texas-based operator Trio Consulting & Management has spudded the Hoffer-1 gas exploration well, which has now reached a depth of 915 feet.

Also at Lavaca County, Amadeus says the Anderson-1 discovery well on production test has flowed the daily equivalent of 51 barrels of oil, 900-950 million cubic feet and 170 bbl of water.

“The flow results are in line with expectations at these levels,” Bentley said.

“These lower zones will not be placed on production until water disposal facilities have been installed.”

Testing will now move up-hole to two zones at depths of 8820 feet and 8500 feet, both of which are expected to be relatively water-free, Amadeus said.

Amadeus’ Lavaca County testing and re-completion program is designed to maximise field production, now that the field limits and main pay zones have been defined.

The workover program includes the conversion of an older well in the area to water disposal, which will greatly enhance field efficiency and economics, according to the company.