The Perth-based junior said the well, which was targeting the Wilson prospect, has produced a stabilised flow rate of 1.8 million cubic feet of gas per day (MMcfd), 3 barrels of oil per day and 56bpd of water. Flow tubing pressure was 6007psi through an 8/64-inch choke.

A further three zones that occurred within a 100-foot thick gas column will be tested over coming weeks.

Golden Gate expects the well to produce 2.5MMcfd once it is connected into the sales line.

If similar results are obtained from one or more of the three as yet untested zones, the gas discovery is likely to be above the pre-drill reserve estimate of 21 billion cubic feet, it said.

Together with existing production of 1.95MMcfd from four wells, Golden Gate said its share of Padre Island production would increase to 3.4MMcfd.

Further success in any one of the remaining zones in Wilson would more than double the company’s production.

Of the seven wells drilled in the shallows, six have been productive resulting in a success rate of over 85%.