Taroom Trough Momentum Builds — Industry, Infrastructure and Opportunity in Focus
The recent Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE) networking event in Miles brought together key voices across the energy sector to discuss one of the most significant emerging developments in Queensland — the Taroom Trough.
What was clear from the outset is that this is no longer a concept. It’s moving.
With regulatory approvals confirmed as of 23 April 2026, the pathway is now opening for exploration, development, and long-term production. The conversation has shifted from if — to how and how fast.
A major focus of the event was the scale of activity already underway across the region. Updates highlighted continued investment from operators, including drilling programs, infrastructure expansion, and long-term planning. Notably, Arrow’s activity includes the drilling of 65 wells by December 2025, alongside significant infrastructure commitments such as two new fuel compressors, a proposed mini power station, 400km of gathering lines, and approximately $9 million in road upgrades.
This level of investment signals more than short-term activity — it reinforces a 20–30 year operational horizon for gas development in the region.
From a workforce and business perspective, this creates a clear message: opportunity is coming, but preparation is critical.
The event strongly emphasised skills, contract readiness, and workforce capability over the next 2–3 years as the basin develops. “Skill security” was a key theme — ensuring the industry has access to a competent, work-ready workforce to support the scale and complexity of upcoming operations.
A highlight of the session was the presence of Gerard Coggan, representing the Office of the Coordinator-General. His focus centred on infrastructure, job creation, and economic development tied to CSG and LNG projects — reinforcing the importance of a coordinated, long-term approach to development.
Equally important was the discussion around shared infrastructure and a unified vision for the basin. Conversations explored what the pathway to market looks like, what facilities will be required, and how operators can collaborate to maximise efficiency. Underpinning all of this was the need to maintain a strong social licence — with coexistence, community engagement, and environmental considerations remaining front of mind.
Adding further depth to the discussion was Trevor Brown, CEO of Omega Oil and Gas, who provided insight into early-stage exploration within the Taroom Trough.
Positioned beneath the Surat Basin, the Taroom Trough represents a deep, unconventional resource requiring high-pressure drilling and advanced techniques. Wells are expected to reach depths of 3,000–4,000 metres before transitioning into horizontal drilling — similar to shale operations seen in the United States.
Importantly, early indications suggest no presence of hydrogen sulphide (H₂S), and geological separation between aquifers and target formations — with significant compressed rock layers in between — reinforcing environmental considerations.
Over the next six to nine months, Omega plans to drill six wells to confirm resource viability. This phase will be critical in shaping the future scale and direction of development.
Operationally, the demand for specialised rigs is already emerging. Discussions indicated that Helmerich & Payne (H&P) are positioning for expansion in the region, with up to four additional rigs potentially entering Australia to meet the technical requirements of deeper, high-pressure drilling programs.
For those in the room, one thing was clear — engagement now matters.
Opportunities to connect with operators, understand upcoming requirements, and position for involvement are already unfolding. Community engagement will also play a key role, with operators planning to involve local stakeholders as projects progress.
The Taroom Trough is not just another project.
It represents the next phase of energy development in Queensland — one that will require alignment across industry, government, and community.
And for those prepared to move early, the opportunity is significant.
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