Publication Name: The Cooper & Eromanga Basins Australia
Authors: P.J. Stanmore
Date Published: June 1989
Number of Pages: 23
Reference Type: Book Section
Abstract:
Exploration for hydrocarbons in the Permo-Triassic Cooper Basin has led to the discovery of oil and gas in bothstructural and structural/stratigraphic traps. However, as the hydrocarbon potential of the Basin has largely been addressed by drilling the crest of the major anticlines, the recognition and classification of stratigraphic and fault entrapment around the high trends and at the Basin margin provides considerable scope for ongoing
exploration.
The potential of the Cooper Basin to trap hydrocarbons in stratigraphic and fault settings is illustrated by examples from two major intrabasinal trends - the Jackson Naccowlah and the Merrimelia-Innamincka Trends.
Consequently, the case studies are representative of traps containing a major structural component. However, similar discoveries are anticipated in areas of subtle structural relief and at the Basin margin.
Traps developed at or near unconformities, formational edges and faults are major exploration plays which add to the undiscovered potential of the Basin.