THE Society of British Gas Industries will be taking a close look at Australia’s petroleum industry later this month.
It is the first time a delegation from the 95-year-old society has come to Australia.
A small but diverse delegation plans to focus its fact-finding and networking in Victoria and WA, and has let it be known it has a particular interest in the onshore industry.
Mission leader Philip Talbot said the companies would meet with WA gas distribution and transmission organisations and at least one gas exploration and production company.
“One of the purposes of this visit is to identify more clearly what the needs of the market are and how, or if, we can help,” he said.
“This can then be used as a basis to encourage more UK organisations to develop links with Australia and, perhaps even other parts of South-East Asia.
“The UK has mature and sophisticated gas market conditions and therefore has a unique contribution to make to emerging and developing gas markets around the world.”
With a larger visit in mind for next year, Mr Talbot said he also would be looking at utilisation and environmental opportunities.
The delegation would be seeking information on Native Title and heritage legislation.
The visitors represent software and network management specialists, alloy manufacturers, training and assessment providers, mechanical joint tightening experts, mooring consultants, and hose and tubing manufacturers.
“Hopefully we will meet with people who recognise the benefits of developing partnerships with UK industry to improve the development of the gas industry in Australia,” Mr Talbot said.
This month’s visit is the second formal UK oil and gas industry mission to WA this year.
In March more than 30 members of the Northern Offshore Federation’s Export Club met with industry associations and businesses in Perth during a week-long stay.
