Santos has been awarded Block T/40P, 100 kilometres off Tasmania’s north-west coast, for six years.

The work program could result in expenditure of up to $23 million being invested in 2D and 3D seismic and the drilling of one well, acccording to managing director John Ellice-Flint.

“This builds on Santos’ strong operating position in the waters off southern Australia’s Otway and Sorell Basins, where we now hold the exploration rights

to eight blocks”, he said.

“The new block not only adds to our established position in the area but also is on trend with our other deep water blocks in the Otway and Sorell Basins.

“Acquiring this block – which is largely in water depths of less than 200 metres - enables us to further evaluate the Cretaceous Shipwreck Group reservoirs along trend from existing fields and opportunities.”

Interest: Santos (operator) 100% in T/40P.