Halifax 1, a vertical exploration well in the Cooper basin, Queensland, was spudded using the Ensign 916 rig, Icon Energy and Beach Energy reported.

Halifax 1 will evaluate the shale gas and basin-centered gas potential in the REM and Patchawarra formation intervals within the Queensland portion of the Nappamerri Trough. The well is located approximately 12 km (7 miles) northeast of Encounter 1 and has a planned total depth of 4,130 m (13,550 ft). The companies expect to reach total depth in approximately 55 days.

The Halifax 1 vertical exploration well will be extensively cored, with evaluation of the whole Permian section down to the base of the Patchawarra Formation; used to identify the best targets for a future horizontal well; fracture stimulated and flow tested through multiple zones, with a material contingent resource expected to be booked; and will be used for micro-seismic monitoring of a future horizontal well.