Multi-scope Hydrogen Drilling Program
Multi-Scope – Hydrogen Drilling Program
J&S Drilling successfully delivered a multi-scope drilling program for a Tier 1 mining company in Central Queensland. The program was completed over a six-month period throughout the wet season. Despite weather-related impacts and delays, J&S Drilling delivered all scopes safely and efficiently, completing the project significantly ahead of the estimated schedule.
The project comprised a range of drilling scopes, including:
- Geotechnical boreholes
- Monitoring bores
- 8C (8-inch) exploration boreholes
- Gas pilot boreholes
- Geochemical boreholes
While each scope required different drilling methodologies, the multidisciplinary team at J&S Drilling demonstrated strong technical capability and adaptability, ensuring a safe and successful outcome for the client.
The scope of works required a Queensland Class 2 Licensed Driller. J&S Drilling’s management team assigned a senior driller to the project who holds a current Queensland Class 2 Licence, supported by extensive experience across a wide range of drilling methods and geological conditions throughout Australia.
Challenging ground conditions were encountered throughout the project, with the area previously described as “difficult” by other drilling contractors. However, J&S Drilling mobilised to site well-prepared, implementing appropriate control measures to mitigate downhole issues. Thorough pre-project planning and coordination between the client and J&S Drilling team were critical in minimising downtime and enabling early project completion.
Positive feedback was consistently received from both the Site Senior Executive (SSE) and Project Manager (PM), highlighting effective time management, strong stakeholder engagement with the landholder, a proactive safety culture, and excellent teamwork. The project was completed incident and injury free, reinforcing the high standards maintained throughout.
Drilling and sampling activities incorporated the following techniques:
- HQ core drilling
- 8C (8-inch) core drilling
- PDC drilling (air and mud)
- Casing advance drilling
- Standard Penetration Testing (SPT)
- Push tube sampling
- Packer testing
- Gas bomb testing
The drilling program utilised a Fraste FS300 drill rig mounted on an 8×4 carrier, supported by an 8×8 Tatra water truck with 5,500L capacity. Additional equipment included a 350 psi / 1,050 cfm air compressor, support/fuel truck, rod sloop, and a JCB 525-60 telehandler to assist operations.
The Fraste FS300 is equipped with an automated rod handling system, significantly reducing the need for manual handling of drill pipe. This, combined with the use of the telehandler, enabled a low-touch operating environment and reduced the risk of manual handling injuries.
As a result of the successful delivery of this program, both the client and onsite geologist have indicated that J&S Drilling will be their preferred drilling contractor for future projects.
