Re-evaluation of the Hydrocarbon Potential of the Scarborough Field, Offshore Northern Carnarvon Basin, Australia

This study examines the detailed basin analysis and re-evaluation of the hydrocarbon potential of the Scarborough Field in the Northern Carnarvon Basin, offshore Australia, aiming to enhance energy reserves. The research integrates extensive datasets, including a 3-D seismic reflection volume, fifty-two 2-D seismic lines, well logs from six wells, checkshot surveys, and surface geologic maps. The Northern Carnarvon Basin, a significant hydrocarbon reserve in Australia, has experienced a multi-phase extensional history and exhibits a complex stratigraphy linked to six tectonic phases. The pressing need for increased energy reserves necessitates revisiting old hydrocarbon fields to boost their production capacity using integrated methods. Well-log interpretation and correlation have revealed the lateral extents of petroleum system elements. The stratigraphic analysis identified three sequences and associated system tracts using the Depositional Sequence Model IV. Structural framework interpretation highlighted faults as migration pathways and hydrocarbon traps. Time and depth structure maps were produced to identify leads and prospects. Four leads and three prospects were pinpointed using RMS amplitude surfaces. Porosity values range from 20% to 29%, with hydrocarbon saturation between 51% and 65%. Volumetric assessment indicates that NAU Deep-1 contains 10.6 bcf, NAU Deep-2 holds 4.24 tcf, and NAU Deep-3 has 6.22 tcf of gas. These significant gas volumes highlight potential for future exploration and development in the Scarborough sedimentary infill.