Gas explorers heard – additional land on offer

The Queensland Exploration Council (QEC) has welcomed the Queensland Government Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy’s latest tender release of five areas for gas exploration, across almost 1500 square kilometres in south-west Queensland.

Chair of the QEC Kim Wainwright said the explorer member organisation was pleased to see the government had listened to industry feedback, releasing more land in the Surat and Bowen basins.

“The gas exploration community has been heard, and the department is now meeting more explorer’s needs by releasing additional land on top of what was already made available through this year’s exploration program,” Ms Wainwright said.

“All five areas were previously released for tender under the 2018 Queensland Exploration Program but were not awarded. So it’s great they’re back on offer for explorers.

“It’s essential our explorers are provided the support to continue exploring and given opportunity to make new discoveries, which not only contribute to our economy but are essential for all Queenslanders who rely on our state’s plentiful natural resources,” Ms Wainwright said.

The tender process, PLR2020-2, will open on 18 June and close on 3 September 2020.

Click here to view the Queensland Government media statement

Click here to view the 2020 Queensland Exploration Program

Media contact: Samantha Nasternak 07 3316 2515