Efficiencies advance and safety excels across Esso Australia’s Wells team

As part of Esso Australia’s early decommissioning works in Bass Strait, our Wells team is moving to the next stage of plug and abandonment work, applying key learnings from the recently completed conductor removal operations on Kingfish B and Mackerel.

Following its successful work at Kingfish B, Rig 22 will now be utilised for plug and abandonment activities at the non-producing platform, Flounder.

“The professional crew deployed with Rig 22 safely and efficiently completed operations at Kingfish B.  The results proved the combination of our capable workforce and the refurbished Rig 22 can deliver world class performance for plug and abandonments,” said Wells Operations Superintendent, Ryan Turton.

“We now have a long program ahead, and we are excited to further optimise our processes and continue to responsibly meet our plug and abandonment obligations,” he continued.

Everyone involved in different aspects of the decommissioning operations is collaborating closely and working as one-team as we continue these important early decommissioning activities.

 “We are truly fortunate to have a wealth of experience and knowledge from across the globe, as well as localised expertise assisting with our decommissioning activities,” said Ryan.

“This, along with diverse insights and impressive technical depth, allows us to have fruitful discussions and ensure we are consistently working towards the best possible outcome.

“We are also working closely with our global colleagues as they work through similar projects, utilising their knowledge and experiences, as they in turn learn from us.”

The team is also preparing for the exciting arrival of the DOF Multi-Purpose Support Vessel (MPSV) Skandi Darwin, which is arriving at the Barry Beach Marine Terminal early August.

“One of the MPSV’s first tasks will be to support works at our steel gravity based monotowers, Dolphin and Perch,” said Matt Barney, Marine Field Superintendent.

The MPSV provides a floating support asset that will allow us to complete abandonment operations on our non-producing facilities which do not have accommodation based on them.

“The MPSV hosts the workforce and means we don’t have to fly workers in and out of the area each day,” said Matt. 

“We’re excited to start utilising the MPSV to expand our capabilities and adopt new technology to identify efficiencies, while ensuring the work can be completed safely.”