Transocean’s Equinox semisubmersible rig has begun its journey toward the Essington-1 gas exploration well, located in the VIC/P79 block offshore Australia. The Essington-1 well is the first of two to be drilled under ConocoPhillips’ Otway Exploration Drilling Program (OEDP). ConocoPhillips holds a 51% stake in the project, while 3D Energi owns 20%, and the Korean National Oil Company (KNOC) holds the remaining 29%.

The Transocean Equinox had recently concluded a drilling campaign with Beach Energy. It is now in the process of moving from the Bass Strait to the Essington Prospect, situated approximately 55 kilometers offshore from Port Campbell. The well is located in waters about 100 meters deep and lies roughly 10 kilometers to the west of the Geographe-1 gas discovery.

Drilling operations are expected to begin around November 1, 2025, according to a recent update from 3D Energi. The Essington-1 well is designed to assess multiple stacked reservoir targets, including the primary Waarre A reservoir and the secondary Waarre C reservoir, both of which feature Direct Hydrocarbon Indicators. The well is projected to take around 32 days to reach the planned total depth (TD), depending on operational conditions. Afterward, drilling will proceed to the Charlemont-1 well.