The Whiteley-1 well, which will be drilled using Enerdrill Rig 2, is the first of a program of unconventional gas exploration wells operated by Central through subsidiary Merlin Energy in partnership with international energy company Total.
Gaudi-1, the second well in the program, is expected to spud in mid-September 2014 in ATP909.
The wells will be drilled to a total depth of approximately 2,500m to 2,900m respectively and are estimated to be drilled and cased in approximately 60 days.
Central Petroleum managing director Richard Cottee said: "There has been a lot of work leading to the spudding of this first well in the Southern Georgina by Central and Total.
"Central remains hopeful that this program will herald the opening of a whole new gas province in Queensland which will help meet the east coast’s future gas requirements. Central acknowledges the help and expertise of our joint venture partner Total in this exciting endeavor."
