Wireline logs run at a total depth of 1835m confirmed that all objectives intersected in the Birkhead, Hutton and Poolowanna Formations were water-bearing, Cooper said.

Before drilling began 10 days ago, Cooper told the Australian Stock Exchange that hydrocarbon charge was the key risk element in the prospect, while trap effectiveness, reservoir presence and seal were considered low risk.

PEL 92 partners are Beach (operator with a 75% stake) and Cooper (25%).