bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COALBED METHANE RESOURCES IN THE PERMIAN OF EASTERN AUSTRALIA AND THEIR TECTONIC SETTING
Authors: Miyazaki S. , Korsch R.J.
Published: August 2017

The Bowen and Sydney Basins in eastern Australia contain vast coal resources which provide a source for coalbed methane. Through studies of the spatial and temporal distribution of the sedimentary packages, the structural geometry and tectonic setting of the sedimentary packages, and the maturation and burial history, the Australian Geological Survey Organisation (AGSO) is mapping the distribution and structural styles of the sources of methane, in particular, the Late Permian coal measures. AGSO's results from the Bowen Basin show at least two distinctly different structural styles of potential targets for coalbed methane drainage: on the Comet Ridge, the Permian coal measures are essentially subhorizontal and tectonically undisturbed, whereas in the western Taroom Trough, the coal measures are folded into a series of anticlines, each of which occurs above a thrust fault which in turn forms part of an imbricate thrust fan. Both of these styles occur at depths of less than 1000 m.Calculations by the Bureau of Resource Sciences (BRS) indicate that the inferred coalbed methane resources-in-place are 62 trillion cubic feet (1760 billion m3) for Australia, in which the Bowen and Sydney Basins are currently the only potential provinces of coalbed methane. The low permeability of the coal seams hinders attempts to utilise this vast amount of energy resources.Further exploration is necessary to delineate commercially feasible areas. This delineation is the only process that will be able to determine demonstrated coalbed methane resources.
THE GULF OF CARPENTARIA—A NEW BASIN AND NEW EXPLORATION TARGETS
Authors: Passmore V. L. , Williamson P. E. , Mating T. U , Gray A.R.G.
Published: August 2017

The sparsely explored Gulf of Carpentaria is a shallow water frontier area of stacked basins. The petroleum potential was not tested by the one offshore well drilled in the Gulf in 1984.Recent re-interpretation of offshore seismic in Queensland waters delineated the Bamaga Basin, a new infrabasin below the Carpentaria Basin. This new basin is a northerly trending asymmetrical sag basin that continues north of the international boundary. The Bamaga Basin, containing up to 1.8 seconds of gently folded and faulted sediments, is untested and offers a new exploration objective. Apparent high velocities make the age of the basin uncertain, but Paleozoic reservoir and source rocks, similar to sedimentary rocks in nearby basins, are inferred, although analogue basins are not readily identifiable.Bamaga Basin source rock burial is sufficient to generate hydrocarbons and could source reservoirs in the Bamaga and Carpentaria Basins via migration along faults. Possible direct hydrocarbon indicators increase support for the presence of hydrocarbons in the Gulf.Structural and stratigraphic plays in the Carpentaria Basin that provide new exploration targets include: basal sandstones onlapping areas of higher relief or filling basin floor depressions, sandstone layers within the Wallumbilla Formation draping highs and possible carbonate zones appearing as high amplitude chaotic reflectors. Within the Bamaga Basin, horst, fault structures and anticlinal features are potential structural plays, and termination of units against the main unconformity are possible stratigraphic play targets.
A REVIEW OF COMPUTER MODELS TO CHARACTERISE HETEROGENEITY IN PETROLEUM BASINS
Authors: Paterson Lincoln
Published: August 2017

Heterogeneity is a major problem in the evaluation of petroleum reservoirs. Yet the search for oil requires increasingly complex reservoirs to be evaluated. It is often necessary to interpolate sparse data, which may be performed inaccurately.One approach to this problem has resulted in the development of a number of computer models that produce statistically correct interpolation of data. Two types of models exist, namely process and response. Process models attempt to build sedimentary formations from the physical processes involved in deposition, such as aggradation, avulsion, compaction and tectonism. Response models are founded on existing data, and use purely mathematical techniques to interpolate values, such as kriging and fractal methods.It is the aim of this paper to review these computer models for description of stratal geometries in petroleum basins, pointing out their strengths and weaknesses. Most of the process models have historically focussed on marine clastics and carbonate deposits, and are limited to two dimensions, or treat the third dimension simplistically. Response models on the other hand do not consider depositional processes, and have tended to smooth the data. Fractal statistics have attempted to overcome the smoothing problem, but many formations do not appear to be described by simple fractals.Compared to other topics in numerical simulation, modelling of sedimentary deposition is in its infancy. However, great opportunities exist to make significant developmental advances. Adequate description of reservoir geometry should improve success rates in exploration and assist in development strategies.
A CRITICAL COMPARISON OF KRIGING, FRACTAL AND INDICATOR KRIGING TECHNIQUES
Authors: Gray T.A. , Jian F.X. , Taggart. I.J.
Published: August 2017

Geological and geostatistical characterisation of reservoir heterogeneities is becoming increasingly popular for the maximisation of oil production from existing oil fields. Many geostatistical techniques, such as kriging, fractal and indicator kriging, have become available either in published or commercial forms. There is, however, little information available and even fewer comparisons between methods to guide users in this area. This paper compares oil recovery performance based on different geostatistical models generated by kriging, fractal and indicator kriging techniques with a constructed synthetic model typical of a fluvial-deltaic sequence.
EXPLORATION SUSTAINING DEVELOPMENT—TAXATION CONSIDERATIONS
Authors: Wade Tim
Published: August 2017

As we move towards the year 2000, an important consideration in the minds of the major players in Australia's petroleum industry will be the impact of Australia's taxation system. It is essential for the sustenance and encouragement of exploration for petroleum that the taxation system does not adversely impinge upon investment decisions.Over the recent past a number of issues have arisen which impact petroleum exploration and development. Briefly these are as follows:Income Tax Ruling IT 2642 provides the views of the Commissioner of Taxation in relation to the deductibility and classification of exploration expenditure. This has implications for the tax treatment of expenditure incurred in the petroleum industry.Provisions allow for the costs of environmental impact studies to be written off over the life of the project or 10 years, whichever is the lesser. These provisions will only apply where a taxpayer is not able to obtain a deduction under any other provision of the Act (there may be an overlap with the provisions governing petroleum exploration expenditure deductions). New provisions now also provide an outright deduction for expenditure incurred on or after 1 July 1991 in relation to rehabilitating a petroleum site and for expenditure incurred on or after 19 August 1992 on Environment Protection Expenditure.Recent amendments to the Research and Development ("R&D") provisions now make it clear that the R&D tax concession does not apply to petroleum prospecting or exploration expenditure. These amendments are retrospective from 1 July 1985.In addition to these developments, petroleum companies have been forced to contend with an enormous array of new taxes, new rules, new interpretations and new practices (including continuing Large Case Tax Audits). The stifling effect of these developments has inevitably resulted in large capital hungry companies pursuing offshore opportunities.
FINANCING PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENTS IN THE 1990'S
Authors: Palethorpe Nick
Published: August 2017

Banks in many parts of the world, including Australia, have tightened credit because of their level of loan losses in the late 1980's and early 1990's. However, recent financings of petroleum projects in this region indicate that the banks' appetite for such lending has not been adversely affected. In fact, banks which lent to Australian petroleum projects in the 1970s and 1980s have generally not only had a return on their money but have also had the return of their money.The funding requirements for Australian petroleum developments in the 1990s and beyond appear considerable. It is expected that there will be keen competition from the banking sector to supply these funds.The need to properly assess and mitigate the risks inherent in such developments will continue, if not heighten, as advanced technology, often in hostile environments, is required to develop more marginal fields.In so far as oil price, foreign exchange and interest rate risks are concerned, there is likely to be a growing emphasis by banks on managing risk so as to contain what historically have been high levels of volatility. A number of products have been developed by banks to manage these risks and if correctly applied they can also serve to reduce risk. There is some cost, however this can be offset by application of the same bank products. By reducing risk it is also possible to obtain higher levels of debt.
ESSO AUSTRALIA APPROACH TO OFFSHORE SAFETY CASES
Authors: Gill. R.S.
Published: August 2017

Following major incidents and a worldwide trend to a more structured approach to managing offshore safety, the Australian Government has regulated for the preparation of Safety Cases for all new offshore projects which commence design work after 1 July 1992. The Safety Case is required to demonstrate that safety management systems are adequate to ensure design, construction and operation of the installation are safe, that potential major hazards have been identified and appropriate controls are provided to ensure that risks are as low as reasonably practicable, and that adequate provision has been made for safe evacuation, escape and rescue. The safety case should be prepared using a balanced approach that results in a practical and value-added case.This paper summarises the approach adopted by Esso Australia in the preparation of safety cases for two new Bass Strait developments. It specifically covers the development of detailed internal guidelines for use in preparing safety cases, the safety case structure, content and emphasis, and includes examples to illustrate the key aspects of the Esso Australia Safety Case approach. The methodology described provides an effective means of achieving the objectives of a safety case.
SAFETY AT SAGASCO-A WAY OF LIFE
Authors: Stock Andrew M.
Published: August 2017

Following the formation of the SAGASCO Holdings Group in 1988, safety performance was set to become a common unifying cultural strength across the Group. By establishing specific safety targets and action plans, marketing and communicating the message throughout the Group, and making Line Managers accountable and responsible for the safety performance of their teams, major improvements in safety were achieved. Not only were new lower accident records set, but improved safety outcomes contributed in a major way to the overall improvement in profit achieved by the SAGASCO Group over the past four years.
NEW DIRECTIONS IN GEOSCIENCE TECHNOLOGY FOR PETROLEUM EXPLORATION IN THE NEW AGE
Authors: Burnett T. L.
Published: August 2017

As economics of the oil and gas industry become more restrictive, the need for new means of improving exploration risks and reducing expenses is becoming more acute. Partnerships between industry and academia are making significant improvements in four general areas: Seismic acquisition, reservoir characterisation, quantitative structural modelling, and geochemical inversion.In marine seismic acquisition the vertical cable concept utilises hydrophones suspended at fixed locations vertically within the water column by buoys. There are numerous advantages of vertical cable technology over conventional 3-D seismic acquisition. In a related methodology, 'Borehole Seismic', seismic energy is passed between wells and valuable information on reservoir geometry, porosity, lithology, and oil saturation is extracted from the P-wave and S-wave data.In association with seismic methods of determining the external geometry and the internal properties of a reservoir, 3-dimensional sedimentation-simulation models, based on physical, hydrologic, erosional and transport processes, are being utilised for stratigraphic analysis. In addition, powerful, 1-D, coupled reaction-transport models are being used to simulate diagenesis processes in reservoir rocks.At the regional scale, the bridging of quantitative structural concepts with seismic interpretation has led to breakthroughs in structural analysis, particularly in complex terrains. Such analyses are becoming more accurate and cost effective when tied to highly advanced, remote-sensing, multi-spectral data acquisition and image processing technology. Emerging technology in petroleum geochemistry, enables geoscientists to infer the character, age, maturity, identity and location of source rocks from crude oil characteristics ('Geochemical Inversion') and to better estimate hydrocarbon-supply volumetrics. This can be invaluable in understanding petroleum systems and in reducing exploration risks and associated expenses.
VITRINITE REFLECTANCE SUPPRESSION IN COAL DUE TO A MARINE TRANSGRESSION: CASE STUDY OF THE ORGANIC GEOCHEMISTRY OF THE GRETA SEAM, SYDNEY BASIN
Authors: George S. C. , Smith J. W. , Jardine D. R.
Published: August 2017

Vitrinite reflectance suppression in marine sequences is a major problem facing some petroleum exploration companies. It leads to considerable difficulties in determining thermal maturity in exploration provinces like the North West Shelf of Australia. The Permian Greta seam, northern Sydney Basin, is a classical example of a marine-influenced coal which displays a vitrinite reflectance suppression of 0.25 per cent R0. It is an ideal candidate for detailed organic geochemical investigation of this problem. The amount and composition of extractable hydrocarbons in the coal appear to be only partially related to vitrinite reflectance, so it is unlikely that suppression is directly caused by the adsorption of hydrocarbons into the vitrinite matrix. Vitrinite reflectance is inversely proportional to the H/C atomic ratio, suggesting that the observed suppression is caused by the more perhydrous nature of vitrinite in marine-influenced coals. At the molecular level the marine influence can clearly be distinguished in the top metre of the seam by depleted amounts of n-alkanes with a lower carbon preference index and a slightly bimodal distribution, a lower pristane/phytane ratio and considerably more hopanes and diasteranes. In addition to the peat-derived humic compounds prevalent throughout the seam, these geochemical parameters indicate bacterial re-working of the newly deposited peat and a direct contribution of marinederived lipids at the top of the seam. Fluctuations in n-alkane and isoprenoid distributions and abundances elsewhere in the seam indicate that the depositional environment changed periodically.
AN ALTERNATIVE VIEW ON INDO-AUSTRALIAN COALS AS A SOURCE OF PETROLEUM
Authors: Katz Barry Jay
Published: August 2017

Numerous studies have argued that coals are the primary source for much of the petroleum in the Indo-Australian region. These studies have invoked this genetic relationship because of similarities in n-alkane distributions among coal extracts and oils and the apparent absence of conventional sources. Others have suggested that the ability of southern hemisphere coals to source oil is a result of differences in the nature of their precursors compared to their gas-prone northern hemisphere counterparts.Suggested genetic relationships are challenged through several independent approaches. Organic geochemical data reveal that these coals display characteristics similar to their northern hemisphere, gas-prone counterparts. They appear capable of generating large volumes of heavy hydrocarbons but are incapable of expelling them within the oil-window. Other data reveal that many of the region's proposed oil-source rock correlations are internally inconsistent. And finally, data are becoming available which indicate that conventional lacustrine or marginal marine source rocks are present.This alternative view of the petroleum potential of coals is significant in that it alters exploration concepts and mass-balance calculations of reserves.
ISOTOPIC CORRELATION TOOLS IN THE MID-PALAEOZOIC AND THEIR RELATION TO EXTINCTION EVENTS.
Authors: Andrew A.S. , Hamilton P.J. , Mawson R. , Talent J.A. , Whitford D.J.
Published: August 2017

At least nine and possibly as many as twelve extinction events of global or near-global extent can be discriminated in the mid-Palaeozoic (earliest Silurian to Early Carboniferous), on the basis of brachiopod, coral, conodont and ammonoid data, and the history of carbonate build-ups. From a review of new and available carbon and oxygen isotopic data from whole-rocks and brachiopods from Australian carbonate sequences precisely constrained by conodont data, distinct isotopic responses to these extinction events may be discerned. There is a good correlation between extinction events and isotopic anomalies with the sense of isotopic shift different for different events. In the Silurian sections there are relatively constant 13C values with sharp and sustained enrichments in 13C at recognized extinction events. The 13C values for the Silurian sections are generally enriched in 13C compared with other low-mid Palaeozoic data. In the Devonian sections, the extinction events correlate with a short-lived depletion in 13C values. The different isotopic responses to periods of marked reduction of biomass and biodiversity in the Silurian and the Devonian implies fundamentally different causes and/or responses to the environmental factors leading to the events. The isotope data across recognized extinction events in the mid-Palaeozoic point to their use in inter-and intra-basin correlation.
THE EFFECT OF INERTINITE ON KEROGEN APPRAISAL BY PROGRAMMED PYROLYSIS, NORTH WEST SHELF, AUSTRALIA
Authors: Horstman E.L.
Published: August 2017

The oil potential of rocks containing inertinite is systematically underestimated by chemical or programmed pyrolysis techniques. Inertinite is measured as organic carbon, but does not contribute to the hydrocarbons produced during pyrolysis. When maceral data is available the measured amount of organic carbon can be recalculated to establish an Hydrogen Index based only on the kerogen which might contribute to oil and gas generation. Inertiniterich rocks that were previously discounted as being only gas prone should be reviewed.Recalculated HI:OI plots prepared from samples from the North West Shelf of Australia indicate the presence of significant amounts of oil-prone kerogen in source rocks previously evaluated as being predominantly gas-prone, upgrading the oil potential of the area.
DETERMINATION OF THE PERMIAN-TRIASSIC BOUNDARY IN AUSTRALIA FROM CARBON ISOTOPE STRATIGRAPHY
Authors: Morante R. , Veevers J.J. , Andrew A.S. , Hamilton P.J.
Published: August 2017

Significant excursions in the carbon isotope composition of organic matter from sedimentary sections across the Permian/Triassic boundary are documented from the Bonaparte, Canning, Carnarvon, Perth, and Bowen Basins. The analysed sections represent a wide range of depositional environments from marine to non-marine, among which precise time correlation is uncertain. The sense and magnitude of the isotopic excursions are comparable to those found elsewhere around the world from marine carbonates at this time. Early Triassic sediments consistently bear carbon more depleted in the carbon-13 isotope than do latest Permian sediments. The isotope excursion provides an isochronous global datum in the sedimentary record at the palaeontologically determined Permian/Triassic boundary. This carbon isotope chemostratigraphic scheme has application for:correlation between different depositional environments, at scales ranging from intrabasinal to global;comparison of sedimentation rates; andrecognition of lacunas in the sedimentary record.
INTEGRATION OF SEISMIC, WIRELINE LOGS AND CORE DATA INTO A GENETIC CHARACTERISATION FRAMEWORK
Authors: Wong P.M. , Taggart I.J. , Jian F.X.
Published: August 2017

Whilst the adequate characterisation of reservoir heterogeneity is an acknowledged problem in the petroleum industry, surprisingly little use is made of seismic data to predict lithofacies and porosity in reservoir regions without adequate well control. Previous attempts at using seismic data to predict lithofacies and porosity variations are reviewed and a new technique based on simultaneous use of seismic and wireline logs is proposed. This new procedure is based on a two-step collocated co-kriging method. The first step simulates lithofacies architecture and is followed by the estimation of porosity values for each lithofacies group. Model studies show that this approach results in an improved description of reservoir lithofacies architecture and porosity variation. Moreover, the proposed technique is consistent with concepts of genetic reservoir characterisation, which aims to characterise the reservoir in terms of lithological flow units. The cokriging results are shown to be more reliable than those obtained using older and more established techniques.
DEPOSITIONAL MODELLING OF THE GIPPSLAND BASIN AND THE BARROW-EXMOUTH SUB-BASINS
Authors: Liu Keyu , Paterson Lincoln , Jian Feng Xu
Published: August 2017

SEDPAK is a forward modelling computer program for depositional processes developed by the University of South Carolina's StratMod Group. It simulates the geometry of generalised lithofacies in a sedimentary sequence or a basin by considering principally four major geological variables: eustatic sea level, tectonic movement, sediment accumulation, and initial and evolving basin surfaces.Based on seismic data, well logs and other information from drill holes, the geometries of sedimentary sequences of the Gippsland Basin and the Barrow-Exmouth Sub-basins have been successfully reproduced on both basin and reservoir scales using SEDPAK 3.12. The simulation results indicate that eustacy, tectonics, sediment input and basin physiography can be equally important in controlling the geometry of strata and basin architecture. However, some differences exist: (1) tectonic movement normally contributes to long-term variations of the first order (megasequence) basin architecture and configuration; (2) the second order (sequence) basin architecture and stratal geometry can be controlled by either sediment supply, eustacy, tectonism or a combination; and (3) high frequency facies variations and stratal geometry within individual sequences are primarily controlled by eustatic sea level variations and basin physiography.This study has demonstrated that SEDPAK is a useful tool for reconstruction of basin evolution histories and for reservoir characterisation. It can also be used to predict sedimentary facies in undrilled exploration frontier areas. In addition, it can be used to address some critical assumptions and problems in the sequence stratigraphy concept. SEDPAK is particularly useful in the study of high frequency sequence stratigraphy and cyclicity, where various sequence or parasequence bounding surfaces and internal geometry can not be easily recognised from seismic data, well logs and outcrops.
THE TECTONIC FRAMEWORK AND ASSOCIATED PLAY TYPES OF THE WESTERN OTWAY BASIN, VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA.
Authors: Perincek D. , Simons B. , Pettifer. G. R.
Published: August 2017

A regional seismic interpretation was carried out over the onshore Otway Basin in western Victoria to produce two-way time formation top and thickness images and a structural elements map showing the ages of faulting. This interpretation improved the understanding of tectonic events controlling the evolution of the basin and associated hydrocarbon plays.The early development of the basin involved rifting due to NE–SW extension in the Late Jurassic–Early Cretaceous, producing a number of half-grabens. The rifting conforms with established rift development models, in which half-grabens of alternating vergence are separated by transfer zones displaying complex folding and faulting patterns. Within the northern margin of the basin these half-grabens were filled and rifting ceased prior to the Aptian.An unconformity in the Wangerrip Group has been identified in the basin, corresponding to a change in Southern Ocean spreading rates from slow to fast (52Ma).Compression, resulting in right-lateral wrenching and inversion of previous faults, occurred during the Miocene–Recent.A number of hydrocarbon play types were identified based on the structural mapping carried out. These play types include anticlines associated with transfer zones, tilted fault blocks, buried basement highs, stratigraphic traps, post-Albian horst structures, syndepositional roll-over structures and post-Oligocene normal and reverse fault related structures.
NEW IDEAS ON THE RIFTING HISTORY AND STRUCTURAL ARCHITECTURE OF THE WESTERN OTWAY BASIN: EVIDENCE FROM THE INTEGRATION OF AEROMAGNETIC, GRAVITY AND SEISMIC DATA
Authors: O'Brien G.W. , Reeves C.V. , Milligan P.R. , Morse M.P. , Alexander E.M. , Willcox J.B. , Yunxuan Zhou , Finlayson D.M. , Brodie R.C.
Published: August 2017

The integration of high resolution, image-processed aeromagnetic data with regional geological, magnetic, gravity and seismic data-sets has provided new insights into the structural architecture, rifting history, and petroleum potential of the western onshore and offshore Otway Basin, south-eastern Australia.Three principal structural directions are evident from the magnetic data: NS, NE-ENE and NW-WNW. The structural fabric and regional geological data suggest that the rifting history of the basin may have taken place in two distinct stages, rather than within a simple rift-to-drift framework. The initial stage, from 150 to ~120 Ma, took place within a stress regime dominated by NW-SE extensional transport, similar to that of the basins within the Great Australian Bight to the west. ENE-striking extensional rift segments, such as the Crayfish Platform-Robe Trough and the Torquay Sub-Basin, developed during this period, contemporaneous with the deposition of thick sediments of the Early Cretaceous (Tithonian-Hauterivian) Crayfish Subgroup. In other parts of the basin, NW-striking rift segments, such as the Penola, and perhaps Ardonachie, Troughs onshore, developed within a strongly trans-tensional (left-lateral strike-slip) environment. At ~120 Ma, the regional stress field changed, and the Crayfish Subgroup-aged rift segments were reactivated, with uplift and block faulting extending through to perhaps 117 Ma. Rifting then recommenced at about 117 Ma (contemporaneous with the deposition of the Barremian-Albian Eumeralla Formation), though the extensional transport direction was now oriented NNE-SSW, almost perpendicular to that of the earlier Crayfish Subgroup rift stage. This later rift episode ultimately led to continental breakup at ~96 Ma and produced the 'traditional' normal fault orientations (NW-SE to WNW-ESE) throughout the Otway Basin.
LATE JURASSIC-EARLY CRETACEOUS DEPOSITIONAL SYSTEMS OF THE DAMPIER SUB-BASIN-QUO VADIS?
Authors: Barber Peter
Published: August 2017

A diminishing prospect inventory based on traditional structural targets, has placed increasing emphasis upon finding commercially viable stratigraphic traps. This is especially true in the Dampier Sub-basin where recent drilling has identified at least twelve depositional sequences within the Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous succession. These sequences document a far more complex Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous sedimentary history than previously acknowledged using traditional litho-stratigraphic mapping techniques. Use of a chronostratigraphic framework to develop Late Jurassic and Early Cretaceous systems tract models, reveals that several repetitive facies suites may be penetrated by the drill, depending on geographic location and frequency of lowstand events. These models have profound implications for prediction of Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous submarine fan systems, their potential reservoir distribution, and sealing capacity for hydrocarbon entrapment.At least eight lowstand events have been recognised in the Oxfordian to Tithonian sequence alone, associated with both synrift crustal extension and/or related fluctuations in global-eustatic sea level. During these lowstand episodes, huge volumes of coarse clastics were transported by mass-flow into the Lewis Trough with sediment transport of some 5–40 km. The magnitude of shelf-margin tectonic instability, sediment supply, and relative sea level change, controlled the geometry of submarine fan complexes that developed within each lowstand depositional cycle. In general, earlier (Oxfordian) basin-floor sand cycles comprise mixed channel-fill and submarinefan lobe moundforms confined to the Lewis Trough. Following collapse of the Madeleine intra-basinal high in early Kimmeridgian times, these earlier channelised lobes were progressively replaced by more widespread, massive, detached, non-channelised basin floor lobes, which became dominant by end-Tithonian time. The Early Cretaceous succession comprises mainly transgressive-highstand shelf to slope sediments, heralding a change from synrift lowstand to post-rift highstand depositional cycles.Sequence boundaries identified in the Dampier Sub-basin demonstrate a remarkable synchroneity with the worldwide global-eustatic curve, suggesting that a symbiotic relationship may exist between major tectonic events and third-order eustatic cycles, at least within the synrift section of the Dampier Sub-basin.
GEOCHEMICAL TOOLS FOR EVALUATING PETROLEUM GENERATION IN MIDDLE PROTEROZOIC SEDIMENTS OF THE McARTHUR BASIN, NORTHERN TERRITORY, AUSTRALIA
Authors: Summons Roger E. , Taylor Dennis , Boreham Christopher J.
Published: August 2017

Maturation parameters based on aromatic hydrocarbons, and particularly the methyl-phenanthrene index (MPI-1), are powerful indicators which can be used to define the oil window in Proterozoic and Early Palaeozoic petroleum source rocks and to compare maturities and detect migration in very old oils . The conventional vitrinite reflectance yardstick for maturity is not readily translated to these ancient sediments because they predate the evolution of the land plant precursors to vitrinite. While whole-rock geochemical tools such as Rock-Eval and TOC are useful for evaluation of petroleum potential, they can be imprecise when applied to maturity assessments.In this study, we carried out a range of detailed geochemical analyses on McArthur Basin boreholes penetrating the Roper Group source rocks. We determined the depth profiles for hydrocarbon generation based on Rock-Eval analysis of whole-rock, solvent-extracted rock, kerogen elemental H/C ratio and pyrolysis GC. Although we found that Hydrogen Index (HI) and the Tmax parameter were strongly correlated with other maturation indicators, they were not sufficiently sensitive nor were they universally applicable. Maturation measurements based on saturated biomarkers were not useful either because of the low abundance of these compounds in most Roper Group bitumens and oils.
EFFECTS ON THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT OF PRODUCED FORMATION WATER DISCHARGES FROM OFFSHORE DEVELOPMENT IN BASS STRAIT, AUSTRALIA
Authors: Terrens G.W. , Tait R.D.
Published: August 2017

An environmental effects study was undertaken to assess the potential environmental effect of discharged produced formation water from offshore oil and gas platforms in Bass Strait. The focus was on potential effects on the fisheries of Bass Strait. Produced formation water discharged to the ocean from the Halibut platform, one of the largest Australian oil fields and now the most prolific produced formation water field, was modelled for dilution versus distance from the platform. Characterisation of produced formation water from 10 Bass Strait platforms for chemical constituents and toxicity to local marine organisms was performed.It was found that produced formation water discharged into Bass Strait presents a very low risk to marine organisms due to very low toxicity and very high dilution rates. For the Halibut platform, acceptable acute toxicity concentration can be obtained with dilution of less than 2:1. Actual dilution rates are approximately 30:1 within 10m of the discharge point, and concentrations reach an indicative 'no chronic' toxicity effect within 25m of the discharge point. The plume is also spatially limited and mobile and any organism would be exposed to potentially lethal concentrations of produced formation water for less than about 30 seconds for median current condition.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF SEISMIC OPERATIONS IN THE OTWAY BASIN, SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Authors: Williams M. L. , Boulton A. J. , Hyde M. , J.
Kinnear A. , Cockshell C. D.
Published: August 2017

The Department of Mines and Energy, South Australia (DME) contracted Michael Williams and Associates Pty Ltd to audit the environmental management of seismic exploration operations in the South Australian Otway Basin. The audit was carried out in early 1992 and covered petroleum exploration operators and DME environmental management systems. An innovative field sampling technique was developed to compare the environmental impact of two different seismic line clearing techniques. Recovery of native vegetation as measured by vegetation structure was also quantified.The audit found DME to have a dynamic and integrated environmental management system while company systems varied in standard. Wide consultation assisted the audit process.As a result of clearing for agriculture, native vegetation covers only six per cent of the Otway Basin. With the strict limitations to broad-scale vegetation clearance since the mid-1980s and the cessation since 1991, the greatest environmental impact of seismic exploration is the clearance of native vegetation for access by seismic vehicles. Native vegetation structure and associated abiotic variables on seismic lines and adjacent control sites, were subject to a classification and ordination analysis which compared the impact of seismic lines constructed by bulldozer or Hydro-ax (industrial slasher). Post-seismic recovery rates of three different vegetation associations were also determined. This analytical technique permits the effects of seismic line clearance to be compared with the natural variability of specific vegetation associations within a region. In interpreting the results however, there is a confounding effect of line type and year as most of the more recent seismic lines were constructed using a Hydro-ax. Results indicate that Hydro-ax clearing affects vegetation structure less than bulldozing. Most Hydro-ax sites recovered within a few years whereas some sites, bulldozed as early as 1971, particularly tussock grasslands, have not yet recovered.This study provides a significant break-through in the debate about the persistence of seismic impacts on native vegetation. As a rapid preliminary assessment, sampling vegetation structure rather than floristics, provides a cost-effective audit and monitoring technique which can be used by non-specialists in a range of petroleum exploration environments. Any significant structural differences may require more detailed analysis to determine if floristic composition also differed.
ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES FOR A PERMIT-WIDE DRILLING PROGRAM IN A SENSITIVE MARINE ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Smith Barry , Martine Julie , Hubbert Graeme D.
Published: August 2017

An integrated program of environmental studies was undertaken in support of an application to conduct permit-wide exploratory drilling in a shallow, sensitive marine environment. The program comprised permit and well site specific work which was carried out in parallel with a corporate due diligence program established by the permit Operator.Scientific studies undertaken for permit area EP 341 off the north west coast of Western Australia comprised underwater surveys, aerial video reconnaissance, surface current tracking surveys and oil spill trajectory modelling to characterise the local environment and identify sensitive resources at risk of impact from oil spills. Survey data were used to prepare an environmental impact assessment report and an oil spill contingency plan, which provide a set of site-specific environmental management guidelines for use by field and office personnel involved with the drilling program. A 3D oil spill trajectory model successfully predicted current flows in the complex hydrodynamic environment of the permit areas, demonstrating its usefulness as a real time tool for oil spill response planning.
THE ORIGINS OF COASTAL BITUMENS FROM WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Authors: Alexander R. , Currie T.J. , Kagi R.I.
Published: August 2017

A total of 83 samples of stranded bitumens collected from the western and southern coasts of Western Australia have been classified into eight groups on the basis of their biomarker compositions. The source rock characteristics inferred for these bitumens, in terms of organic matter type and depositional setting indicated by the biomarkers, suggest strongly that the bitumens originate from a variety of areas in SE Asia in the vicinity of the Indonesian archipelago. In fact, in seven of the eight cases a good correlation is observed between biomarker composition of each bitumen group and a produced crude oil or oil seep from this region. The bitumens are transported to and around the Australian coastline by a system of ocean currents.
CURRENT OUTLOOK ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT OF PETROLEUM EXPLORATION IN AUSTRALIA
Authors: Mackenzie Brian , Ashton Simon , Larking Adrian , Cai Zhikai
Published: August 2017

The paper presents selected findings from a study aimed at:promoting a general awareness of the economic realities of petroleum exploration in Australia;providing economic guidelines for strategic planning in the Australian energy sector;assessing the impact of current Australian taxation and royalty policies.The database for this appraisal includes $14.8 billion (Note 1) of petroleum exploration expenditures made in Australia to 1987, and 311 possible economic petroleum fields discovered as a result of those expenditures. The study methodology assesses this historical record in the context of present-day economic and technological conditions.Results initially are presented for an anticipated set of base case conditions, representing the average performance of all companies which have undertaken petroleum exploration in Australia. The economic potential of searching for onshore and offshore fields is then contrasted.Time trend findings for both onshore and offshore exploration indicate a substantial deterioration in economic performance from the pre–1968 era, through 1969–77, to the most recent 1978–87 study interval. The main cause is found to be a strong and persistent decline in the average size of economic fields discovered.The combined impact of Commonwealth income tax, federal excise, resource rent tax, and State and Commonwealth royalties, on the incentive to invest in petroleum exploration and field development is shown to be decidedly negative. When attention is focused on the most recently examined interval, 1978—87, the current tax and royalty systems contribute to rendering uneconomic the Australia-wide exploration performance.Finally, several suggestions are provided with a view to restoring the wealth creating potential of petroleum exploration in Australia.
THE CHANGING FACE OF GOVERNMENT REGULATION
Authors: Laws R.A. , Aust T.
Published: August 2017

Significant changes are forecast in the approach of government to regulation of the upstream petroleum industry.Prescriptive 'command and control' style regulation is still widely used but does not provide confidence that outcomes will be acceptable and has been criticised as a major contributing factor in the Piper Alpha disaster. Regulator capture, conflict of interest, over-regulation and high compliance costs are also cited as common problems with the existing system.The trend toward greater community involvement in the regulatory process, smaller government and open and transparent decision making are adding pressure for change.A new approach termed objective regulation is being developed in South Australia and involves:establishment by government in dialogue with industry and the community of meaningful and measurable objectives in regard to environmental protection, safety etc.;preparation of codes of practice, guidelines and manuals designed to ensure objectives will be met; andintegration of management systems designed to assure achievement of objectives, including operator and regulator audits of outcomes and the effectiveness of the environmental and safety management system.Objective regulation is aimed at reducing compliance costs, eliminating many approvals currently required, providing greater flexibility, achieving better outcomes and giving greater assurance that management policies are being implemented.Involvement of community interest groups insetting and reviewing objectives should increase community confidence in the industry's ability to operate in an environmentally responsible and consistent manner. This should assist in reducing and hopefully reversing the trend towards increasing restrictions on access to land to which the industry has become increasingly subject.
INDUSTRY AND EDUCATION—A PARTNERSHIP FOR LEARNING
Authors: Grossman Elaine
Published: August 2017

Partnerships between industry and education embody a concept to help create productive and efficient interaction between schools and private enterprise. 'School-Industry Links' refers to any cooperative activities between schools and industry designed to be of mutual benefit.Links between industry and education benefit students through involvement in real life situations which parallel and enrich school curriculums.Industry has the opportunity to make a contribution to the development of our future citizens and to have a constructive input into the education process, ensuring that the industry perspective is more adequately and effectively addressed.The AIP/APEA Education Project has as its aim to improve the public perception of the industry and to affect the way in which it is portrayed within the education system.Mechanisms employed to achieve this include:production of school's resource and curriculum material;encouraging school-company links programs;provision of company site tours and personnel for guest speakers;liaison with teacher associations;professional development for teachers; andsponsorships.By assisting the wider understanding of petroleum matters, the industry will enhance its own viability and ultimately its long-term survival. An involvement in education can create familiarity and reach the people who have a stake in the industry's future. Contributions to education identify a company as a good corporate citizen.The project is committed to the provision of information about the Australian petroleum industry to schools and the general public, through professional communication processes, to ensure balanced discussion of the industry's role in the economy and society.
ECONOMICS OF PETROLEUM EXPLORATION OFFSHORE AUSTRALIA AND SOUTHEAST ASIA
Authors: Allinson Guy , Elliston Mark
Published: August 2017

The aim of this paper is to assess the economic attractiveness of exploring for crude oil offshore the North West Shelf of Australia by comparison with selected areas offshore Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam and the Philippines. In order to do this, the paper examines the technical, quantifiable factors which affect offshore petroleum exploration acreage acquisition decisions at the country level. These factors are historical prospectivity, costs of field development and fiscal regime. Other factors such as political, macro-economic and business risks are not considered.The paper concludes that there are significant differences between the countries as indicated by these measures. Past exploration in the Barrow/Dampier area of the North West Shelf of Australia has shown high levels of success by comparison with the other countries. This relatively high success rate coupled with comparatively low costs of field development and lenient fiscal regimes makes the economics of exploration on the North West Shelf favourable by comparison with those selected areas in the other countries considered.
CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE PETROLEUM PRODUCTION INDUSTRY—NEW CHALLENGES AND NEW OPPORTUNITIES
Authors: Carruthers Ian
Published: August 2017

This paper discusses developments in the international climate change agenda and the consequent impacts and opportunities this creates for Australia. The Framework Convention on Climate Change has just entered into force, which imposes a range of commitments on Australia. Australia needs to participate actively in the international negotiations on the Convention's implementation to ensure that its interests are protected. The National Greenhouse Response Strategy provides the basis for Australia's response to climate change. The Petroleum Exploration Industry has scope to take 'no regrets' actions to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions as well as an incentive to do so to enhance its public image as a good environmental citizen.
THE PRECAUTIONARY PRINCIPLE—NEW OPPORTUNITIES OR NEW CONSTRAINTS FOR THE OIL EXPLORATION INDUSTRY?
Authors: Harding H.R. , Fisher E.C.
Published: August 2017

'Corporations if they are to remain in business for the long term must operate within a context of community values'. Burnup (1993)The precautionary principle has in recent years become embodied in Australian environmental policy and the present trend for its inclusion in legislation is likely to continue. Recent cases illustrate its application to the assessment of specific projects. Given these cases the precautionary principle needs to be placed on the oil E&P industry's environmental management agenda. The principle is not a simple rule of 'zero risk', but rather is a complex concept concerned with scientific uncertainty and information integrity and may require enhanced public participation for its application. More importantly application of the precautionary principle is a process in which industry has an important role to play. It is argued that participation in this process offers significant potential benefits for industry.