20 September 1940 – 18 September 2025
Sadly, we bid farewell to Chris Porter a geologist with over 60 years’ experience in the petroleum industry, who passed away in Adelaide recently. Chris received a BSc (Honours) in Geology from the University of Adelaide in 1961, and a MSc in Geophysical Engineering from Colorado School of Mines in 1968. Chris’ first job was as a geophysical “jug hustler” on seismic crews in New South Wales, West Texas and the swamps of Louisiana. His career progressed with companies including Australian Aquitaine, Phillips Petroleum, Western Mining (WMC) and Santos Limited. He consulted independently from late 1970 to early 1975, major clients being the Cooper Basin Consortium, Woodside and AOG. Chris initiated WMC’s Oil / Gas section in early 1975, resigning as General Manager in late 1988 having established reserves in the Cooper Basin and production in offshore WA, and setting up offices in Adelaide, Perth and Houston. He joined Santos Limited in early 1989 as Manager – Technical Services and left that position in July 2000 to pursue a career in consulting. His final “job” was as chairman of the Norwood Resource (TNR), where he and fellow veterans of the oil patch would gather convivially to discuss and debate matters of geo-technical, social and political relevance.
Chris gave generously of his time, lecturing frequently at the Australian Mineral Foundation and at Adelaide University, where he played a pivotal role in the setting up of the National Center for Petroleum Geology & Geophysics (NCPGG) and subsequently the Australian School of Petroleum (ASP). Chris was a tireless advocate, friend and mentor to students and staff of the Adelaide University Petroleum Geosciences and Engineering community. A staunch supporter of PESA, Chris served in various roles on the SA/NT branch committee between 1980 and 2012 including as President (1980-1982). Chris organised the PESA Cooper Basin Forum series in SA in 2004, 2005 and 2006. He also organised the Cooper Basin section for EABS 3 (Sydney, 2008), as well as the S.A. Basin Symposium (Adelaide, 2010).
A native Adelaidean, Christopher—aptly named for the patron saint of travel— spent much of his adult life on the move, across Australia and around the world. He passed on that love of adventure to his children. Chris leaves behind son Justin and twin daughters Andree and Tash and several grandchildren. Both at work and privately, Chris had a rare gift for connecting with people from every background, treating everyone with equal respect and genuine interest. His boundless curiosity drove thoughtful conversations on everything from history to global politics, and his fascination with people and ideas kept him learning and questioning throughout life.
Anyone who knew Chris Porter quickly realised how refreshingly free of pretence he was – a no-frills person who found joy in simple pleasures – Saturday morning visits to the Central Markets with his mother, then his beloved wife Anna; family camping trips to the Flinders Ranges, and day trips to the Barossa or Clare Valley Vintage Festivals. His humility was remarkable.
Despite his many accomplishments, he never felt he was better than anyone else. He possessed a rare tenacity and an incredible work ethic. He was a natural mentor who asked nothing from his mentees except that they try their hardest. He lived his life on his own terms while staying true to what felt right for him. He lived authentically, wasn’t concerned with social status, and didn’t need to keep up with others. Vale Chris Porter!
Respectfully, John Kaldi
With significant contributions from Chris’ children, Justin, Andree and Tash
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