QGC awards rigs contract for CSG project

Queensland Gas Company (QGC) has awarded contracts worth AU$ 90 million to Easternwell Pty Limited, to build and operate specialist rigs at the company’s coal seam gas (CSG) to liquefied natural gas (LNG) project.

CSG in Queensland

Under an AU$ 50 million contract, Easternwell, a subsidiary of Transfield Services Pty Limited, will construct two servicing rigs. These rigs, which are smaller and more mobile than those used for drilling, will be used for maintenance of QGC wellsites in Queensland’s Surat Basin, where there is an abundance of CSG.

The rigs will be built at Easternwell's Toowoomba factory.

Exploration drilling rig

QGC and Easternwell have signed a separate AU$ 40 million contract for construction of a drilling rig for exploration. The rig incorporates the latest technology including automation, making it safer for workers compared to older models.

All the rigs are expected to be operating from the second half of 2014.

New jobs

The contracts will create 56 jobs for skilled workers who will crew the rigs, and a further 24 positions for mechanics, engineers, welders and design staff at the factory.

QGC Operations Director Walter Simpson said innovation was essential to minimising impact and improving safety.

Comments

Simpson commented: "We strive to operate with respect for people, the environment and property. That means adopting best practices and innovating to limit impacts and maximise benefits for all the people associated with our business.

"As with all of our major contractors, Easternwell is committed to using local suppliers of goods and services and to employing and training local people where possible."

QGC has been working with Easternwell since 2010.

Adapted from press release by Katie Woodward

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcoal.com/cbm/03032014/qgc_awards_csg_project_rigs_contract_578/