Arc first stopped testing the well just over a week ago because of wet weather, with a view to restart operations soon after.

But it said yesterday that recent rainfall has since prompted it to remove all contractors and equipment from the site.

“As was anticipated, the onset of seasonal rain has limited the safe access to the well, due to the low-lying terrain around the well site,” Arc said.

“The access track and well site have become temporarily unsuitable for the safe operation of heavy oilfield equipment.”

Arc said testing the well was a priority and it planned to restart operations when the wet season finishes in April.

“The nature of the reservoir fluid and the source of pressure within the reservoir remain undetermined,” the company said.

“Should the well be commercially productive better access facilities would be constructed to allow year round production.”

Joining Arc in the Stokes Bay-1 testing program are partners First Australian Resources, Emerald Oil & Gas, Pancontinental Oil & Gas and Empire Oil & Gas.