"The well head platform consists of a tall template structure (TTS) set on the seafloor in 41 metres of water," Cue said.

"Piles driven through each of the three legs of the TTS support the braced well head deck, which extends above water."

Once the platform has been installed, the rig will drill the seven development wells planned for the field.

"Development drilling is expected to be completed in September, with oil production from the field beginning in fourth quarter 2005, at an expected initial rate of around 20,000 barrels of oil per day," Cue said.

Participants in the Sampang PSC are Santos (Sampang) Pty Ltd 45% (operator), Singapore Petroleum Company Limited 40% and Cue Sampang Pty Ltd 15%.