Evaluation of the vertical appraisal well, Maitland-2, was completed by operator Apache Energy. The well was then plugged back and a core hole, Maitland-2CH, was drilled allowing recovery of reservoir section core.

A horizontal sidetrack, Maitland-3H, has subsequently been drilled to its total depth, penetrating more than 500m of the reservoir in the horizontal section. Good gas shows were observed during the drilling of the horizontal section, according to Tap and Pan Pacific

“The results to date are consistent with the expected gas-charged reservoir,” the two companies said.

“Preparations are now being made to flow test the horizontal well, Maitland-3H, to establish potential development production rates for the field.

“The flow testing program is expected to commence in about a week from now.”

Maitland-2 was aimed at further appraising the potential of the Maitland gas field, discovered in 1992, through the evaluation of a stratigraphic trap defined by seismic amplitudes.

One appraisal well, Maitland North-1, drilled in January 1996, found gas and condensate in the Paleocene-aged Maitland sandstone.

Based on new analyses performed by Apache, it is estimated Maitland has a gross gas column thickness of at least 23m.

The Maitland field is in Permit WA-33-R, which is held by Apache Energy (48.82%), Tap Oil (22.47%), Santos (18.71%) and Pan Pacific Petroleum (10%).