Bridgeport Energy will conduct exploration in three areas covering about 1250km2 while Metgasco will explore in two areas covering about 900km2, in an area bounded by Windorah, Betoota, Eromanga and the South Australian border.
The companies are expected to conduct seismic surveys and to drill between five and 10 wells once they are granted licences.
Dr Lynham said he had spoken with local traditional owners and communities in the south west to personally advise them of the exploration tender outcome.
But while Bridgeport Energy and Metgasco had been awarded the tenders, Dr Lynham said they would still need to meet environmental and native title requirements with the Mithaka people and Wongkumara people before being granted exploration tenure.
They will also have to enter into access agreements with landowners and meet other obligations before significant on-ground exploration activities can occur, he said.
MEL Price at posting:
4.6¢ Sentiment: Hold Disclosure: Held
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