ConocoPhillips secures support vessels for Otway drilling program offshore Australia

ConocoPhillips Australia has contracted three anchor-handling tug supply vessels for the Otway exploration drilling program offshore southeast Australia in 2025.

They will support the contracted semisubmersible Transocean Equinox drilling rig, which will operate in the VIC/P79 and T/49P exploration permits in the Otway Basin offshore Victoria and King Island, Tasmania. The contract allows for two firm exploration wells and 120 optional days in addition.

According to partner 3D Energi, the vessels will provide mooring chains/anchor handling, rig positioning and supplies to the rig.

Transocean Equinox is due to arrive in the Otway Basin during first-quarter 2025. The drilling environmental plan is with regulator NOPSEMA for approval.

Drilling locations for the two wells in Phase 1 of the program are yet to be determined, 3d Energi added, and it will depend on the outcome of 3D seismic interpretation results over the two permits.