Construction on the Esso-operated 187 km Longford to Long Island Point pipeline began last week at an event near Sale, Victoria.
The pipeline, which replaces an existing pipeline constructed in 1969, will transport crude oil and condensate between Esso Australia’s Longford and Long Island Point facilities in Victoria.
“This project will support the continuing supply of natural gas to businesses and households in Victoria and is part of our multi-billion dollar investment in oil and gas infrastructure in the region,” said ExxonMobil Australia Chairman Richard Owen.
“This will be a major project for the Gippsland region delivering not only new jobs, but also opportunities for local suppliers.”
At its peak, it is anticipated that the project will generate approximately 500 jobs in areas like earthworks, trenching, welding and surveying, as well as additional indirect employment opportunities.
Esso Australia has contracted Nacap Australia, a Quanta Services company, to build the replacement pipeline.
The pipeline is being constructed by Esso Australia as part of the Gippsland Basin Joint Venture, in which Esso Australia Resources Pty Ltd and BHP Billiton Petroleum (Bass Strait) Pty Ltd each have a 50 per cent interest.