
Tamboran Resources Corporation has initiated a groundbreaking stimulation campaign for two wells in the Beetaloo Basin, marking a significant milestone in Australia’s unconventional gas exploration.
The company has commenced stimulation activities on the Shenandoah South 2H sidetrack (SS-2H ST1) and 3H (SS-3H) wells within exploration permit EP 98.
This campaign is set to be the largest ever conducted in the Beetaloo Basin, with plans to pump up to 119 stimulation stages across both wells.
The SS-2H ST1 well is scheduled for 43 stages over a 1.654-metre (5,427-foot) horizontal section, while the SS-3H well will include 76 stages across a 2,976-metre (9,766-foot) horizontal section.
A key feature of this operation is the deployment of Liberty Energy’s modern stimulation equipment, representing the first 80,000 hydraulic horsepower (HHP) frac spread imported into the Beetaloo Basin from the United States.
This advanced equipment is expected to deliver a substantial increase in operational efficiency and effectiveness.
Joel Riddle, Managing Director and CEO of Tamboran Resources, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating: “We are excited to commence the stimulation program for the SS-2H ST1 and SS-3H wells in the Beetaloo Basin with Liberty Energy’s modern stimulation equipment.
“The increased horsepower of this equipment is expected to deliver a step change in stimulation efficiency and proppant intensity compared to previous wells completed in the Basin.”
The enhanced capabilities of the Liberty equipment are anticipated to result in a more than 25 per cent increase in proppant intensity, exceeding 2,800 pounds per foot, compared to the previous Shenandoah South 1H well.
All stages will utilise a slickwater fluid design, further optimising the stimulation process.
Riddle also highlighted the strategic importance of these wells, stating: “Importantly, these wells are planned to be among the first to provide reliable energy to the Northern Territory, with production expected to feed into the proposed 40 MMcf/d Shenandoah South Pilot Project.”
The company’s ability to conduct stimulation programs during the wet season demonstrated over the past two years, provides confidence in year-round operational capabilities.
This flexibility is crucial for maintaining consistent progress in the development of the Beetaloo Basin’s resources.
As Tamboran Resources pushes forward with this ambitious campaign, the industry watches closely.
The success of this project could set new benchmarks for unconventional gas exploration in Australia and potentially accelerate the development of the Beetaloo Basin as a significant energy resource.