Paul Balfe from ACIL Tasman was the first person to present at the seminar, which was sponsored by APA Group and McConnell Dowell. Mr Balfe began by explaining the coal seam gas (CSG) exploration and production process before going on to speak about the number of CSG to LNG projects proposed in Queensland. Mr Balfe said that it is highly likely that two of the proposed Gladstone LNG projects will reach a final investment decision by the end of this year.

Following Mr Balfe, Epic Energy’s Michael Schumann provided an update on the South West Queensland Pipeline Expansion. He said heavy rains in Queensland have meant that construction of the pipeline has commenced from the Wallumbilla end of the pipeline, as the western end is in heavy flood. He outlined that this revised program posed major logistical challenges with regard to the relocation of pipe supply points and storage areas, and revised truck movements.

AJ Lucas’ Mark Harper provided insight into dealing with public response to development projects, warning attendees not to underestimate community concerns. Drawing on his experience with the now defunct Sydney Gas, Mr Harper explained that it is important that consistent information was provided to the community concerned, in addition to treating affected communities with courtesy and respect. “Communicate as the community communicates, not in a corporate way,” he said.

Ivan Byak from APA Group then discussed the different types of gas storage that will be required as Australia’s energy mix changes, and natural gas is used as a peaking power supply to support renewable energies. He outlined three different types of storage: pipeline storage (linepack), LNG storage, and underground gas storage. Mr Byak discussed the benefits and shortfalls of each, and how they can be used in different ways to support the changing nature of the natural gas industry.

Also from APA Group, Sashie Naidoo provided a presentation about distribution pipelines. He outlined the differences between the transmission and distribution networks, and discussed the issues affecting natural gas distribution today.

Hugh Luckhurst-Smith from Fyfe spoke about the

APIA-PIPA CSG Code of Practice, and the importance of managing the water produced from CSG exploration. He said “The CSG industry isn’t in the gas industry at all, it is the water industry. If you can manage the water, you can manage the gas.”

Orrcon Steel’s Cameron Dinnis provided a presentation on reducing the cost of a pipeline project by making certain decisions when choosing pipe specifications. As an example, he explained that longer lengths of pipe reduce the cost of the project and can increase efficiency. Longer pipe means less welding, which commonly determines the progress rate for pipeline construction.

Kristy Brincat from OSD Pipelines spoke about improving pipeline design to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. She said that companies should be working closely with auditors as part of their Natural Greenhouse Emissions Reporting to consider different areas where emissions can be reduced.

APIA’s Steve Davies spoke about the opportunities and issues facing the pipeline industry with regard to CO2 pipeline development. He noted that the Australian pipeline industry was developed with initial government backing, and even though the industry is privatised now, the same support would be helpful in the development of CO2 pipelines.

Energy Pipeline Co-operative Research Centre (EPCRC) Chief Executive Officer Valerie Linton provided the final presentation of the day, outlining the development, focus and research programs of the EPCRC, and encouraged everyone to get involved and help with research where needed.

Following the seminar, the Brisbane Dinner was held and attracted over 300 attendees, a testament to the booming pipeline industry in Queensland. Enerflex and Fyfe sponsored the dinner.

Queensland Co-ordinator General Colin Jensen spoke at the dinner about the many LNG projects proposed for Queensland, and their potential for both the state and the pipeline industry.

Mr Jensen outlined the Queensland Government’s plan to cultivate the Surat Basin area. He also said that the Government is working with proponents, community and local council at Curtis Island to help facilitate development of the many LNG projects proposed in that area.