EXPLORATION RESULTS, HYDROCARBON POTENTIAL AND FUTURE STRATEGIES FOR THE NORTHERN GALILEE BASIN

Abstract

Exploration activity in the northern Galilee Basin has been sporadic and is still at an immature stage. Recent geological investigations by the Queensland Department of Resource Industries have brought about a better understanding of the geological setting and stratigraphic evolution of the basin. These investigations also identified key source and reservoir units, determined maturation trends and delineated areas with hydrocarbon potential. The geological results indicate that the Aramac Coal Measures and Betts Creek beds contain the most favourable source and reservoir rocks. Thermal modelling of vitrinite reflectance data suggests that various parts of the basin reached maturity for hydrocarbon generation at different times. Integration of the geological results and thermal modelling has enabled exploration concepts to be developed for the basin. Application of these concepts has highlighted areas along the western margin of the Koburra Trough and eastern Maneroo Platform, and areas adjacent to the Cork Fault and the Wetherby Structure in the Lovelle Depression that warrant further exploration.