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Geokinetics (Australasia) Pty Ltd FINAL REPORT 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey CLIENT : Pangaea Resources Pty Ltd BLOCK : NT EPs 167, 168 & 198 AREA : Beetaloo Basin, Northern Territory COUNTRY : Australia DATE OF SURVEY FROM : 7 May 2013 DATE OF SURVEY TO : 21 October 2013 DATE OF REPORT : 15 November 2013 METHOD OF SURVEY : 2D Land Reflection Seismic Survey

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Geokinetics (Australasia) Pty Ltd

FINAL REPORT

2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey

CLIENT : Pangaea Resources Pty Ltd

BLOCK : NT EPs 167, 168 & 198 AREA : Beetaloo Basin, Northern Territory COUNTRY : Australia DATE OF SURVEY FROM : 7 May 2013 DATE OF SURVEY TO : 21 October 2013 DATE OF REPORT : 15 November 2013

METHOD OF SURVEY : 2D Land – Reflection Seismic Survey

Final Report Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey

Page 1 of 98

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS .................................................................................................... 1

LIST OF FIGURES ........................................................................................................... 3

LIST OF TABLES ............................................................................................................. 5

TABLE OF SIGNIFICANT DATES .................................................................................... 6

STATEMENT OF QUALITY .............................................................................................. 7

ABSTRACT ...................................................................................................................... 8

OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW ...........................................................................................10 1.1 Introduction to Operations ..................................................................................10 1.2 Terrain, Access and Weather ............................................................................11 1.3 Crew accommodation ........................................................................................17 1.4 Communications ................................................................................................18 1.5 Administration ....................................................................................................19 1.6 Assets and Equipment Used in the Operation ....................................................19 1.7 Permitting and Public Relations .........................................................................20 1.8 Subcontractors ..................................................................................................20

2 SURVEY AND POSITIONING ..................................................................................21 2.1 Grid System .......................................................................................................22 2.2 Survey Equipment Employed .............................................................................23 2.3 General Survey Description ...............................................................................23 2.4 GPS System Verification....................................................................................25 2.5 Primary Control Network ....................................................................................26

2.5.1 Control Point Marker Construction Method .................................................29 2.6 Datum Reference – Geodetic Parameter ...........................................................30

2.6.1 GDA94 MGA Zone 53 S .............................................................................30 2.6.2 GDA IGS ITRF2000; MGA 53 S..................................................................30

2.7 Seismic sources units dGPS verification ............................................................31 2.8 RTK GPS Surveying ..........................................................................................32 2.9 Computations ....................................................................................................33 2.10 Survey Data Quality Control ..............................................................................35

3 RECORDING OPERATIONS ....................................................................................37 3.1 Recording Parameters .......................................................................................40 3.2 Receiver and Source Layout ..............................................................................42

3.2.1 Recording Template ...................................................................................42 3.2.2 Source Array Layout ...................................................................................42 3.2.3 Geophone Array Layout ..............................................................................43

3.3 Recording Quality Control ..................................................................................43 3.4 Field Communications .......................................................................................44 3.5 Recording Operation Statistics...........................................................................45 3.6 Operational Comments ......................................................................................47

3.6.1 Logistics .....................................................................................................47 3.6.2 Noise on the active recording patch ............................................................50 3.6.3 Downtime ...................................................................................................50 3.6.4 Line Equipment Damage ............................................................................53

4 GEOPHYSICAL QC AND DATA PROCESSING ......................................................54 4.1 Geophysics Departmental Responsibilities ........................................................54

4.1.1 Interaction with Survey Department ............................................................54 4.1.2 Interaction with Line Clearing Teams ..........................................................54 4.1.3 Interaction with Recording Department .......................................................55

Final Report Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey

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4.2 Schematic interaction diagram ...........................................................................55 4.3 Equipment and Software....................................................................................56

4.3.1 Processing Workstation (QC & Infield Data Processing) .............................56 4.3.2 Other Hardware ..........................................................................................56 4.3.3 QC Software ...............................................................................................56

4.4 Project Database ...............................................................................................57 4.5 Project Start-up Tests ........................................................................................57

4.5.1 Acceptance tests ........................................................................................57 4.5.2 Source effort Tests .....................................................................................57

4.6 Planning and Design ..........................................................................................59 4.6.1 Project final statistics ..................................................................................60

4.7 Geophysics Department Standard Methodology ................................................60 4.7.1 Assigning Geometry with ProMAX ..............................................................60 4.7.2 QC Checks for Discrepancies & Anomalies ................................................61 4.7.3 Scripts Provided to Recording Department .................................................61

4.8 Field Seismic Data Processing ..........................................................................61 4.8.1 Monitoring of Raw Data Records ................................................................61 4.8.2 Auxiliary Channels ......................................................................................62 4.8.3 Daily Deliverables .......................................................................................64 4.8.4 Load daily production into project database ................................................65 4.8.5 Project’s SPS files ......................................................................................65 4.8.6 Building Geometry in ProMax .....................................................................66 4.8.7 Data Processing Flow .................................................................................68 4.8.8 Velocity Analysis .........................................................................................69

4.9 Field Brute Stack ...............................................................................................69 4.10 Project’s Deliverables ........................................................................................75

5 HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT (HSE) ......................................................76 5.1 Key Elements ....................................................................................................77

5.1.1 Leadership and Commitment ......................................................................77 5.1.2 Organisational and Operational Requirements ...........................................77

5.2 Inductions and Training .....................................................................................78 5.2.1 Inductions ...................................................................................................78 5.2.2 Green hands ...............................................................................................78 5.2.3 Training on the line .....................................................................................79

5.3 Risk Management ..............................................................................................79 5.3.1 Risk Assessment ........................................................................................79

5.4 Stop cards .........................................................................................................80 5.5 Hazards .............................................................................................................81

5.5.1 Transportation ............................................................................................81 5.5.2 Vehicle Maintenance ..................................................................................82 5.5.3 Journey management .................................................................................83 5.5.4 Helicopters .................................................................................................84 5.5.5 Working in heat ...........................................................................................84 5.5.6 Snakes and Wildlife ....................................................................................85

5.6 Crew Facilities ...................................................................................................86 5.6.1 Base Camp Setup ......................................................................................86 5.6.2 Ambulance .................................................................................................87 5.6.3 Fire Emergency Setup ................................................................................88 5.6.4 Radio Communications ...............................................................................89 5.6.5 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) ........................................................89

5.7 Drills and Key Performance Indicators (KPI) ......................................................90 5.7.1 Drills ...........................................................................................................90 5.7.2 HSE KPI .....................................................................................................90

Final Report Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey

Page 3 of 98

5.8 HSE Management .............................................................................................91 5.8.1 HSE Management Process .........................................................................91 5.8.2 Safe Work Procedures ................................................................................92

5.9 HSE Communication .........................................................................................92 5.9.1 Toolbox Meetings .......................................................................................92 5.9.2 Action Point List (APL) ................................................................................93

5.10 Emergency Response Plan (ERP) .....................................................................94 5.11 Environment ......................................................................................................94

5.11.1 Environment Impact Minimisation ...............................................................94 5.11.2 Waste Management ....................................................................................94

6 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATION ............................................................96

DIGITAL APPENDICES ...................................................................................................97 6.1 Appendix A: HV2D Survey Control Network Map ...............................................97 6.2 Appendix B: HV2D Survey Control Points Description .......................................97 6.3 Appendix C: HV2D Preplot Prospect Map ..........................................................97 6.4 Appendix D: HV2D Final Survey Map ................................................................97 6.5 Appendix E: HV2D Pastoral Holdings Map ........................................................97 6.6 Appendix F: HV2D Weed Map ...........................................................................97 6.7 Appendix G: HV2D End of Project Hardware Test .............................................97 6.8 Appendix H: HV2D Seismic Survey - Startup Report .........................................97 6.9 Appendix I: HV2D Recording Parameters ..........................................................97 6.10 Appendix J: HV2D Daily Report Sample ............................................................97 6.11 Appendix K: HV2D Final SPS ............................................................................97 6.12 Appendix L: HV2D Data Shipment Transmittals .................................................97

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1. Hidden Valley 2D Location Map ..................................................................... 11

Figure 2. Hidden Valley 2D seismic lines and Camp Locations ..................................... 12

Figure 3. Seismic lines along existing track and fence boundary ................................... 13

Figure 4. Seismic lines along fire break and crossing Victoria River .............................. 13

Figure 5. Elevation profile along 2D line PB13-04 ......................................................... 15

Figure 6. Elevation profile along 2D line PB13-05 ......................................................... 15

Figure 7. Elevation profile along 2D line PB13-20 ......................................................... 16

Figure 8. Elevation profile along 2D line PB13-13 ......................................................... 16

Figure 9. Toward the East of the surveyed area – Line 01 South View.......................... 17

Figure 10. Crew 486 Base Camp #1 ............................................................................ 18

Figure 11. Crew 486 communication antenna at base camp ....................................... 19

Figure 12. Hidden Valley 2D Pastorals Map ................................................................ 21

Figure 13. Hidden Valley 2D Line numbering system .................................................. 22

Figure 14. Gate sign along line PB13-03. .................................................................... 24

Figure 15. GPS static calibration markers geometry .................................................... 25

Figure 16. Calibration session conducted in NT HI way Inn ......................................... 25

Figure 17. Primary Control Network Map ..................................................................... 28

Figure 18. Control point marker construction sketch .................................................... 29

Figure 19. Control Point Marker HV11 ......................................................................... 29

Figure 20. Crew 486 Vibroseis during positioning integrity test .................................... 32

Figure 21. Surveyor marking a receiver line................................................................. 34

Final Report Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey

Page 4 of 98

Figure 22. Survey base station mast............................................................................ 34

Figure 23. Crew 486 recorder testing part of line equipment at startup ........................ 37

Figure 24. Cable truck and Layout-Pickup operation ................................................... 38

Figure 25. Crew486 recorder and seismic source on Line ........................................... 38

Figure 26. Vibrator hardwire similarity testing .............................................................. 39

Figure 27. Recording Template ................................................................................... 42

Figure 28. Two Vibroseis Units Source Array .............................................................. 42

Figure 29. One Vibroseis Unit Source Array ................................................................ 42

Figure 30. Geophone Array ......................................................................................... 43

Figure 31. Alternative Geophone Array ........................................................................ 43

Figure 32. Recording daily production histogram ......................................................... 49

Figure 33. Breakdown of Hidden Valley 2D Total Times .............................................. 51

Figure 34. Breakdown of Hidden Valley 2D Operational Times.................................... 51

Figure 35. Breakdown of Chargeable Standby ............................................................ 52

Figure 36. Breakdown of Non-chargeable Downtime ................................................... 52

Figure 37. Geophysics Department Data Flowchart ..................................................... 55

Figure 38. Sample of SEGD Header & Extended Header information.......................... 62

Figure 39. Raw Vibroseis shot display with 500 live channels active ........................... 65

Figure 40. Geometry Applied shot gather with a geometry check gate ........................ 66

Figure 41. Source Position Check with near offset geometry gate ............................... 67

Figure 42. Source Position LMO Check with limited offset ........................................... 67

Figure 43. LMO receiver verification display ................................................................ 67

Figure 44. Typical Velocity analysis panel ................................................................... 69

Figure 45. Field Brute Stack along Line PB13-01 ........................................................ 70

Figure 46. Field Brute Stack along Line PB13-07 ........................................................ 70

Figure 47. Field Brute Stack along Line PB13-02 ........................................................ 71

Figure 48. Field Brute Stack along Line PB13-04 ........................................................ 71

Figure 49. Field Brute Stack along Line PB13-16 ........................................................ 72

Figure 50. Field Brute Stack along Line PB13-020 ...................................................... 72

Figure 51. Field Brute Stack along Line PB13-013 ...................................................... 73

Figure 52. Field Brute Stack along Line PB13-11 ........................................................ 73

Figure 53. Field Brute Stack along Line PB13-24 ........................................................ 74

Figure 54. Field Brute Stack along Line PB13-05 ........................................................ 74

Figure 55. Breakdown of total hours without LTI .......................................................... 76

Figure 56. STOP/GO card statistics ............................................................................. 81

Figure 57. Base camp car park .................................................................................... 82

Figure 58. Mechanic HOD performing maintenance on vehicle ................................... 82

Figure 59. Journey Manager Office ............................................................................. 83

Figure 60. R44 helicopter used .................................................................................... 84

Figure 61. Heat Stress Assessment by Paramedic ...................................................... 85

Figure 62. A snake on track ......................................................................................... 86

Figure 63. Aerial view of Crew 486 Base Camp ........................................................... 87

Figure 64. Crew 486 paramedic’s ambulance on the line ............................................. 88

Figure 65. HSE Notice Board ...................................................................................... 92

Figure 66. Action Point List statistics ........................................................................... 93

Figure 67. Emergency Response Flow Chart .............................................................. 95

Final Report Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey

Page 5 of 98

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1. 2D seismic lines elevation profile summary .................................................... 14

Table 2. Crew 486 Base Camp Sites ........................................................................... 17

Table 3. Hidden Valley 2D GPS Equipment ................................................................. 23

Table 4. Survey Office Equipment ................................................................................ 23

Table 5. Calibrated GPS units ...................................................................................... 25

Table 6. Static calibration baseline - Session1 ............................................................. 26

Table 7. Static calibration baseline - Session2 ............................................................. 26

Table 8. Hidden Valley Primary Control Network List ................................................... 27

Table 9. GDA94 Datum; MGA Zone 53 S .................................................................... 30

Table 10. GDA-ITRF2008 Datum; MGA Zone 53 S .................................................... 31

Table 11. Vibroseis dGPS positioning verification....................................................... 32

Table 12. Hidden Valley 2D Recording Parameters .................................................... 41

Table 13. Hidden Valley 2D daily production statistics ................................................ 47

Table 14. Hidden Valley 2D Equipment Damage Statistics ......................................... 53

Table 15. Field Data Processing Workstation ............................................................. 56

Table 16. QC hardware .............................................................................................. 56

Table 17. QC software................................................................................................ 56

Table 18. Source Effort Testing Parameters ............................................................... 57

Table 19. 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Survey Final Statistics ........................................... 60

Table 20. Vibroseis Auxiliary Channels Setup (Without SIM) ...................................... 63

Table 21. Vibroseis Auxiliary Channels Setup (With SIM) ........................................... 64

Table 22. Field Data Processing Flows ...................................................................... 68

Table 23. Geokinetics Risk Assessment Matrix .......................................................... 80

Table 24. Key Performance Indicators ........................................................................ 90

Final Report Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey

Page 6 of 98

Table of Significant Dates

Project’s Landmarks

Signing of contract 03 May 2013

Advance party arrives 07 May 2013

Client Representative arrives 15 May 2013

Surveyors commence operations 17 May 2013

Crew arrives Daly Waters 09 June 2013

Crew mobilises from Daly Waters to Base Camp #1 11 June 2013

Topographic Surveying commences 11 June 2013

Major crew site inductions 13 June 2013

Project’s start-up testing 16-17 June 2013

Seismic data acquisition commences 17 June 2013

Crew mobilised to Base Camp #2 08 July 2013

Crew mobilised to Base Camp #3 09 August 2013

Crew mobilised to Base Camp #4 23 September 2013

Crew mobilised to Base Camp #5 01 October 2013

Line Survey Operation completed 14 October 2013

Data acquisition completed 19 October 2013

Line equipment picked up 20 October 2013

Crew demobilised 21 October 2013

Final operation report (this report) 15 November 2013

Final Report Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey

Page 7 of 98

601 Curtin Ave East,

Pinkenba QLD 4008, Australia

Statement of Quality

The survey reported herein has been conducted according to the standards specified in

the contract covering the Work.

In the absence of such contractual standards, the survey has been conducted in

accordance with the instructions of the Client or by the Technical Operating Standards of

Geokinetics (Australasia) Pty Ltd.

To the best of our knowledge and belief the survey included no deviations from the set

standards, either of letter or spirit, which are not specifically reported and justified in the

following pages.

David Stegemann

Regional Operations Manager

Geokinetics (Australasia) Pty Ltd

Final Report Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey

Page 8 of 98

ABSTRACT

A 2D Land Vibroseis Reflection Seismic Survey totalling 1,407.28 line kilometres along

twenty-two seismic lines was carried out in EPs 167, 168 and 198; Beetaloo Basin in the

Northern Territory - Australia from 7 May 2013 to 21 October 2013 (from start to finish of

all operations). The survey was known as the 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey.

The work was carried out under a geophysical agreement between Pangaea (NT) Pty Ltd

(hereinafter Pangaea) and Geokinetics (Australasia) Pty Ltd (hereinafter Geokinetics).

Under the signed Master Supply Agreement dated on 3 May 2013 and its Supplementary

Agreement, Geokinetics acquired seismic data on a turnkey basis, and directly controlling

surveying/positioning, recording, field data processing, HSE and all subcontractor services.

A Sercel 428XL recording system was mobilised for the project, connected to Input /

Output (I/O) SM24 geophones (6 geophones per group) planted on the surface at 20

metres receiver station interval. Two fleets of one or two I/O AHV-IV (60,000 lbs) vibroseis

units produced a single sweep at 10 metres vibroseis point “VP” interval; utilising a ‘flip-

flop’ vibroseis recording technology. The seismic source produced a single linear 8 or 12

seconds sweep length and 4 seconds listening time, with 5-85 Hz sweeping frequency.

The seismic 2D lines stretched over a widespread area; therefore, the field Crew deployed

a mobile Basecamp that was relocated five times throughout the survey. In addition,

frequent line changes, large amount of livestock presented within the surveyed area, a rail

track crossing many seismic lines, earthquakes and occasional bad weather slowed down

the field operation. However, the Crew successfully managed to complete the field

operations within the projected time schedule. Data acquisition covered a total of 125

days with an average daily production of 1,126 VPs per day. At the completion of the

project, a total of 140,395 Vibroseis points was acquired out of the projected (preplot)

140,728 VPs. 333 VPs were skipped due to safety reasons, environmental, field

obstacles, and similar operational / logistical reasons.

Seismic line preparation and restoration were performed by Walcott & Associates and

MSC Contractors that were directly supervised and managed by Pangaea. Cultural

heritage and permits to work were handled by Pangaea prior to Crew mobilisation to the

survey area and continued throughout the operation.

Complete Survey, Geophysics departments were fielded, equipped with the required field

systems, computer hardware and processing software. Data quality monitoring was

performed on a daily basis and seismic data processing was performed to field 2D

brute stack then followed up to residual stack stage. Geokinetics’s proprietary information

management system was used to manage large volumes of recording and positioning

metadata and to collate the required information for SPS file production.

Final Report Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey

Page 9 of 98

Data quality of the acquired 2D seismic dataset was excellent. The continual source effort

optimisation, testing and monitoring throughout the recording operation proved to be

extremely fruitful in acquiring high quality seismic data within challenging surface and near

surface conditions. The effects of karst topography, sinkholes, laterite, limestone and

igneous bodies on the surface were suppressed through fine-tuning the recording

parameters of the project; particularly, source point interval, number of vibroseis units per

array, drive level, sweep length and sweeping frequency. The line crew was also

successful in deploying and planting the geophones on hard surfaces to insure good

receivers/ground coupling.

Seismic noise generated by traffic, livestock, water bores, occasional earthquake and bad

weather etc., along the surveyed roads/tracks was largely removed from the acquired

dataset due to the high trace fold. Stacking algorithm successfully managed to normalise

the seismic noise on the field processed brute stacks.

Final Report Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey

Page 10 of 98

OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW

1.1 Introduction to Operations

A 2D Reflection high resolution land vibroseis Seismic Survey totalling 1,407.28 line

kilometres was carried out at exploration permits EPs 167, 168 & 198, Beetaloo Basin,

Northern Territory – Australia from 07 May 2013 to 21 October 2013. (from start to finish

of all field operations). The survey was known as the Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D

Seismic Survey. The work was carried out under a geophysical agreement between

Pangaea (NT) Pty Ltd (hereinafter Pangaea) and Geokinetics (Australasia) Pty Ltd

(hereinafter Geokinetics). Under the signed Master Supply Agreement dated on 3 May

2013 and its Supplementary Agreement, Geokinetics acquired seismic data on a turnkey

basis. The 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey is located approximately 150

kilometres south of Katherine, in Northern Territory.

Geokinetics advance party consisting of the Project Manager, HSE Advisor and Survey

crew mobilised to the survey area on 7 May 2013. The 2D seismic lines covered a

widespread area. To maintain a reasonable daily driving time between the field operations

and the Crew’s base camp, the base camp was relocated 5 times during the operation.

Driving times between the seismic lines and Crew 486 base camp were maintained from

approximately 10 minutes to about 2.0 hours. The first location for the base camp was

scouted, cleared and then occupied on 11 June 2013.

Technical project’s instrument start-up test and seismic source efforts tests started on 16

June 2013 and was concluded on the next day. Seismic data acquisition commenced on

17 June 2013. The final shot points was acquired on 19 October 2013 and the crew

completed demobilisation on 21 October 2013. Crew demobilisation was followed by

Pangaea onsite representatives’ inspection to finalise and sign-off the base camp site

restoration.

Locations of the project’s preplot 2D seismic lines were tentative; and only constrained by the

total length of the acquired seismic lines within the exploration permits. The 2D lines were

frequently revised by Pangaea based to the geology, surface conditions and access/permits

to work around some private properties. At the completion of Hidden Valley 2D Seismic

Survey, the total program consisted of 70,386 receiver stations at 20 metres group interval

along 22 seismic lines and 140,728 vibroseis points at 10 metres VP interval. 333 VPs of the

mentioned vibroseis points total were skipped due to safety reasons, environmental, field

obstacles, and similar operational / logistical reasons.

This report summarises the features and progress of the completed Pangaea 2013 Hidden

Valley 2D seismic survey.

Final Report Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey

Page 11 of 98

Figure 1. Hidden Valley 2D Location Map

1.2 Terrain, Access and Weather

The topography throughout the surveyed area was undulating, and considerably

fluctuating from line to line as the survey covered a widespread area. Surface elevation

ranged between 51.0 metres along seismic line PB13-13 (ST#4874) and 297.5 metres

along line PB13-28 (ST#1188) above mean sea level. Average surface elevation along

the seismic lines was 166.9 metres above mean sea level.

In the eastern part of the project; within EP167&168 exploration permits, the terrain was

mainly flat with the patchy, scattered trees and dense dry grass. At this part of the survey,

the seismic lines were particularly positioned along fence lines and existing tracks. A few

sections of lines went through virgin terrain (fire breaks) where line preparation was

required.

The terrain in the western part of the project (inside EP198 exploration permit) was

variable with numerous rivers, creeks, watercourses, depressions, cliffs and escarpments

in the land scape.

Final Report Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey

Page 12 of 98

Figure 2. Hidden Valley 2D seismic lines and Camp Locations

Final Report Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey

Page 13 of 98

Figure 3. Seismic lines along existing track and fence boundary

Figure 4. Seismic lines along fire break and crossing Victoria River

Manmade infrastructures were also present across the area. Four seismic lines crossed

over a gas pipeline in the forest hill property. The north-south functioning railway was

intersected by four seismic lines and Buchanan highway crossed two seismic lines and

Buntine highway by one line.

Final Report Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey

Page 14 of 98

2D Line

Average elevation

Highest value

Station # Lowest Value

Station #

1 PB13-03 184.0 193.5 1088 162.3 3144

2 PB13-01 183.4 192.1 1007 173.0 3166

3 PB13-14 188.0 193.1 1117 181.0 1786

4 PB13-12 187.4 192.2 1473 179.7 1834

5 PB13-10 184.1 188.5 1185 177.1 1621

6 PB13-08 183.4 190.0 1001 177.4 1551

7 PB13-06 183.4 194.8 1016 172.8 1889

8 PB13-04 188.1 206.6 1040 170.0 6616

9 PB13-09 174.8 222.1 5816 103.7 7245

10 PB13-02 179.0 224.1 1001 152.3 6824

11 PB13-07 199.0 263.0 1469 158.6 8128

12 PB13-28 267.1 297.5 1188 225.6 3574

13 PB13-05 199.0 259.8 1003 152.1 8061

14 PB13-16 204.6 231.3 1166 185.6 5666

15 PB13-09Ext 215.2 223.7 640 204.8 1293

16 PB13-20 194.9 266.6 19043 58.7 11829

17 PB13-13 103.2 171.8 3377 51.0 4874

18 PB13-26 114.7 135.6 1133 88.9 1506

19 PB13-11 101.1 121.8 1123 88.9 1403

20 PB13-24 114.8 160.3 1248 87.0 1885

21 PB13-17 122.4 149.2 1236 107.9 1325

22 PB13-15 117.8 125.2 1484 102.2 1045

Table 1. 2D seismic lines elevation profile summary

The following figures show examples of the elevation profiles along four seismic lines;

PB13-04, 05, 20 and 13. A complete set of elevation profiles along all 2D seismic lines

were part of the project’s deliverables and were sent with data shipment for the acquired

seismic data.

Final Report Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey

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Figure 5. Elevation profile along 2D line PB13-04

Figure 6. Elevation profile along 2D line PB13-05

Access for the survey area was generally good, paved or unsealed roads were in good

condition. In remote areas, seismic lines were the first option used to access the area of

operation. Whenever the drive time to the line increased, either due to the long lines or the

terrain condition, existing access tracks were used. A prior client agreement was required

to use the existing tracks.

Final Report Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey

Page 16 of 98

Figure 7. Elevation profile along 2D line PB13-20

Figure 8. Elevation profile along 2D line PB13-13

Data acquisition progressed under close consultation with Pangaea to ensure that all

environmental, health and safety requirements were adhered to. Good planning, detailed

and precise implementation of procedures and policies from all parties involved managed

to achieve the best outcomes within the prevailing conditions. Nightly operation meetings

were held and crucial to the successful survey.

From the weather point of view, the Northern Territory has a humid summer monsoon

climate with summers (November – February) being hot and very wet while winters (May

Final Report Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey

Page 17 of 98

– September) are generally warm and dry with cool nights/early mornings. Rainfall in the

region is highly seasonal, with most rain falling during the summer (November – March)

either as heavy thunderstorms or rain depressions. Temperatures during winter range

from 10°C - 20°C and in summer from 35°C - 40°C.

Figure 9. Toward the East of the surveyed area – Line 01 South View

1.3 Crew accommodation

Accommodation facilities for all field personnel were provided by Geokinetics Crew 486

mobile camp that followed the field operations throughout the seismic survey. A

supporting office/accommodation was positioned at Katherine and functioned as a staging

base for crew member rotation travel and equipment transfer between Geokinetics

Warehouse in Brisbane and the field Crew.

Base camp sites were selected by Geokinetics and Pangaea with approval granted by the

property owners. All of five camps were located on the 2D seismic lines with convenient

access to roads or highways. Meals were provided by OICS, a subcontract hired by

Geokinetics. All of Geokinetics Crew 486 staff and field Client Representatives, stayed on

the base camp sites.

NAME Easting Northing Latitude Longitude

Camp #01 312675.90 8250020.78 15° 49' 17.7" S 133° 15' 03.4" E

Camp #02 210195.88 8296930.37 15° 23' 17.3" S 132° 18' 01.0" E

Camp #03 267683.71 8205190.56 16° 13' 22.0" S 132° 49' 36.0" E

Camp #04 177590.22 8199389.63 16° 15' 53.5" S 131° 59' 01.6" E

Camp #05 88095.89 8191009.37 16° 19' 36.7" S 131° 08' 46.5" E

Projection: MGA 53S Datum: GDA94

Table 2. Crew 486 Base Camp Sites

Final Report Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey

Page 18 of 98

Figure 10. Crew 486 Base Camp #1

The following lists all the offices and working areas located in the Crew486 Base Camp:

The Project Manger

HSE Department Office

Journey Manager/Radio room

Survey Department Office

Geophysics Department Office

Mechanic Workshop

Technician Workshop

Services provided and available for the field personnel at Base Camp included:

Accommodation

Offices and workshops

Ablutions

Catering

Laundry

Housekeeping

Satellite Communication (for telephone and internet)

1.4 Communications

Communication with Geokinetics Brisbane Office, Geokinetics base in Katherine, and

Pangaea was conducted via:

VSAT internet connection

VOIP phone

Satellite Phones

Occasionally Mobile phones when in Daly Waters

Land based operational communications were conducted via vehicle two-way and hand-

held VHF radios. Operational discussions were the only radio communications allowed

outside emergency procedure, while lengthy communications were held on a separate

channel to ensure that production proceeded without disturbance. The recorder and line

crew had cell phone coverage utilising a booster antenna. All vehicles were fitted with

Final Report Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey

Page 19 of 98

UHF radios to ensure that the Crew was able to liaison to all other contractors that

operated in and around the site.

Figure 11. Crew 486 communication antenna at base camp

1.5 Administration

The majority of crew administration tasks were handled through Geokinetics main office in

Brisbane; all other administrative needs on the crew were managed by the Project

Managers/Assistant Project Managers. All personnel arriving on Crew completed

Geokinetics Crew 488 HSE inductions, along with Pangaea induction.

1.6 Assets and Equipment Used in the Operation

A total of 1,500 SM-24 geophone strings and 1500 Sercel FDUs were available to the field

crew for the duration of the project along with 45 LAUL, 6 LAUX, 105 batteries and 6

transverse cables were used during the project.

The crew recorder was situated in the hub of the field operations. Recording instruments

were installed into a 4x4 Isuzu commercial bus which also towed a trailer fitted with an

extendable 20m antenna mast and generator to increase the range of the radio signals

and supply power to the recorder.

A total of five AVH-IV vibroseis units were available for use in the field. After start-up tests

were performed all five units were deployed for the recording operations. Navigation in the

field was provided for the vibroseis operators via a dGPS system featuring a Novatel

display system.

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6 Leica 1200 System RTK (Real Time Kinematic) GPS survey units were used during the

project. All field crew vehicles were fitted with Garmin GPSMAP-78s handheld units, for a

total of 44 units. One trailer, fitted with an extendable antenna mast (20m) was used to

increase the range of the RTK GPS reference station radio signal.

1.7 Permitting and Public Relations

Permitting and Public Relations activities were handled by Pangaea and Pangaea’s Client

Representatives. These items are outside the scope of this report. All property owners

signed Pangaea land access forms which Geokinetics follows while conducting the seismic

survey.

Geokinetics ensured all vehicles and trailers were weed and seed inspected prior to

arriving on site. Certificates were issued by qualified personnel and strict guidelines were

followed by the crew to ensure all vehicles were kept as clean as possible. Geokinetics

mobile wash pads were set up between properties to help prevent the spread of noxious

weeds. Prior to departing the survey area all vehicles again underwent a weed and seed

wash-down and inspection.

All personnel and vehicles signed in and out of properties and stated there status

regarding weed certification and their wash down details. Copies of these access

documents have been kept by Geokinetics and the originals have been given to the

Pangaea field client representative.

1.8 Subcontractors

The following were subcontracted for various activities during the 2013 Hidden Valley 2D

Seismic Survey:

Oil Industry Catering and Services “OICS” – Provided catering services at Base

Camp

HSE Plus Pty Ltd – Provided a qualified onsite Paramedic

Heli-Muster (NT)– Helicopters and pilots

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2 SURVEY AND POSITIONING

Figure 12. Hidden Valley 2D Pastorals Map

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Topographic survey operations began on 17 May 2013 with setting up of the survey

control network. Seismic 3D lines surveying commenced on 11 June 2013, after the

permit to enter properties was obtained, and was completed on 14 October 2013.

The Hidden Valley twenty two 2D seismic lines extended from 130º 50’ to 133º 17’ East

and from 14º 47’ to 16º 37’ South. In total 70,386 receiver points were surveyed and

marked in the field at 20 metres station interval. Source points were peg less and their

preplot positions were interpolated from the surveyed receiver positions. Final source

point coordinates were based on the real time dGPS for the centre of gravity “COG” of the

source array at each acquired vibroseis points.

Seismic lines were located along roads, existing tracks, fence lines and fire breaks.

Walcott and Associates Company were contracted by Pangaea to supervise the seismic

line preparation.

2.1 Grid System

After the 2D lines were prepared and cleared for seismic operation, the survey department

generated the receiver preplot files that followed the seismic line route in the field.

Figure 13. Hidden Valley 2D Line numbering system

Receiver station interval was 20 metres and source point interval was 10 metres. The

receiver points were numbered with four digits, starting by 1001 at the low side with

increment 1; source points were numbered with five digits, the first four digits similar to

receiver station number at the low side, and the fifth digit was either 2 or 7, for 1/3 and 2/3

receiver station interval.

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2.2 Survey Equipment Employed

The Leica GPS equipment was utilised to observe the static control network and to

measure the receiver station coordinates by RTK technique against one RTK base

station. Garmin equipment was utilised for logistical operations and mapping and as

handhelds for the line crew and cable truck drivers. In addition to the equipment listed

below, extra units of critical items were available on the crew as spares.

No. Description Type Quantity

1 Complete GPS RTK Base station

G.P.S. Leica System GX 1230 dual frequency GX 1230 GG 2

2 Complete GPS RTK Rover

G.P.S. Leica System GX 1230 dual frequency GX 1230 GG 3

3 DGPS Novatel Receiver (Omnistar subscription.) Propak-HP-G 1

4 Garmin Chartplotter GPSMAP 3206 GPSMAP

3206 1

5 GPS Nav Garmin Map 78 CSx GPSMap 78

Csx 10

6 Survey Antenna tower Trailer 1

Table 3. Hidden Valley 2D GPS Equipment

Table 4. Survey Office Equipment

2.3 General Survey Description

GPS surveying, using the Leica GNSS GX1230 was the primary method of coordinating

the receiver locations. The project was carried out and completed using only GPS survey

techniques, the terrain and land coverage allowed for initialisation in all situations. A

primary control network was surveyed during the first stages of the project using FAST

STATIC observation to transfer coordinate from Daly Waters Air Strip zero order geodesy

point to prospect, as the project progressed an intensified control network was

established. The control point observations were an ongoing process due to the nature

and the position of the project. The control network was established so that every receiver

Software & I.T.

No Description Type / Version Qty

1 PC DESKTOP INTEL CORE I7 AZ3900 1

2 Alienware laptop 6ZWFSM1 1

3 Printer HP Officejet 7000 A3 1

4 Plotter HP Designjet T120 A1 1

5 GPSeismic software V.2012.4 1

6 Trimble Business center V 2.5 1

7 Global Mapper 13.2.2 1

8 ArcView Version 9.3 1

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point was within 15km of a control point. Due to the flat terrain reliable radio link was

available within this range. Control points where placed at easily accessible points close

to tracks, to easily allow crews to tie off on a reference point, and give multiple options of

base station sites.

Two RTK teams were used for the whole period the project. Every RTK team was

endowed with a 4X4 Ute fitted with a Leica RTK GPS rover and a paint spaying machine.

While seated in the vehicle the GPS operator would use the Leica equipment to navigate

to the receiver point position, he would then record the precise coordinates of the point

and push the spray machine button to mark the point with a blue paint. In addition to the

paint a wooden peg with the station number was put every 5th station.

DGPS method was used for the set out of source points which were established by the

vibroseis unit operator using GPS plotters and Novatel systems uploaded with the Garmin

map of preplot points. The preplot for source points were generated with using surveyed

receiver points. Two fleets of two vibroseis units each were utilised for this project. Each

night the geophysics department provided a list of source points with COG coordinates

based on observer logs; the survey department then converted the final source point’s

coordinates from WGS84 to GDA94.

A detailed logistical map and other relevant maps were prepared during the course of

project, with all significant topographical details (i.e., gates, fence lines etc.) and access

routes such as roads and creeks, being coordinated and mapped. Handheld GPS units

were used for this purpose. The logistic map was also combined with a satellite map,

which improved its usefulness further. All departments benefited from the production of

such maps.

Figure 14. Gate sign along line PB13-03.

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2.4 GPS System Verification

The GPS receivers used for static observations were Leica dual-frequency receivers.

These receivers were checked before starting the GPS Network, with observations of

satellite measurements on both the L1 and L2 frequencies. All antennas used were Leica

AX 1202 GG. The GPS system verification was carried out at the Northern Territory

Highway Inn on 17 May 2013, where three markers points were setup in the Motel yard.

The Crew’s six receivers were split into two groups of three and each group was set up on

the markers and left collecting GPS data for a minimum of one hour.

Figure 15. GPS static calibration markers geometry

Figure 16. Calibration session conducted in NT HI way Inn

Session1 Session2

Station Receiver

S/N

Antenna

S/N

Station

Receiver

S/N

Antenna

S/N

A 468897 07450044 A 469101 07450027

B 469998 07460042 B 469037 07500022

C 469020 08060005 C 469972 07500022

Table 5. Calibrated GPS units

A

C B

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Vector

ID

From

Point

To

Point

Solution

Type

Satellites Epochs Vector

Length

From

Height

To

Height

Chained

Distance

Comparison

PV1 B A Fixed 10 134 1.988 1.211 1.327 1.998 0.010

PV2 C B Fixed 10 135 1.994 1.193 1.211 1.991 -0.003

PV3 C A Fixed 10 134 1.996 1.193 1.327 2.007 0.011

Table 6. Static calibration baseline - Session1

Vector

ID

From

Point

To

Point

Solution

Type

Satellites Epochs Vector

Length

From

Height

To

Height

Chained

Distance

Comparison

PV1 A B Fixed 9 160 1.997 1.211 1.167 1.998 0.001

PV2 C B Fixed 9 151 1.980 1.204 1.167 1.991 0.011

PV3 A C Fixed 9 160 1.990 1.211 1.204 2.007 0.017

Table 7. Static calibration baseline - Session2

According to the processed verification results, the GPS receivers have acceptable

accuracy for the use in static survey network and RTK survey.

2.5 Primary Control Network

The Primary GPS control network utilised for Hidden Valley 2D seismic survey was based

on the Government control markers NMG092 and OP1551CP00. The coordinates for

these points were provided by the NT Government Department of Land, Planning and

Environment.

A primary GPS control network, consisting of 32 stations, was established throughout the

surveyed area. All GPS control stations were established using ‘simultaneous static

differential GPS observations and the network was then adjusted with holding the control

point NMG092 fixed while using the point OP1551CP00 as a check. Five Leica RX 1200

GPS Receivers and Survey Controllers were used by the GPS network Survey Crew. The

Leica RX1200 Receiver indicates the following specifications:

Centimeter-accuracy real-time positioning with RTK/OTF data

Sub-meter accuracy real-time positioning using pseudo-range corrections

Adaptive dual-frequency RTK engine

WAAS/EGNOS capability

Automatic OTF (on-the-fly) initialization while moving

1PPS (One Pulse Per Second) output

Dual event-marker input

USB port for data transfer

Type I Compact Flash card for data storage

Three RS-232 serial ports

Two TNC ports for connecting to the GPS and radio antennas

Static survey observation periods were typically three hours minimum in length,

observing at a rate of one epoch every fifteen seconds. Elevation mask was set at

15 degrees with all healthy SVs in view used.

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Point ID Easting Northing Elevation

Ahda Latitude Longitude

Height (Ellipsoid)

A749.39D 305052.731 8239895.529 188.641 S15°54'44.94262" E133°10'44.30042" 231.010

CP06 373146.887 8194955.857 240.194 S16°19'23.13423" E133°48'45.03031" 282.109

HV01 304843.519 8265853.403 183.489 S15°40'40.48527" E133°10'44.81865" 226.664

HV02 278763.717 8270590.506 184.147 S15°37'58.63526" E132°56'10.74588" 226.873

HV03 285692.304 8253274.222 192.626 S15°47'24.02584" E132°59'57.81050" 234.992

HV04 288849.181 8225321.837 196.253 S16°02'34.18353" E133°01'34.98371" 237.935

HV05 265436.073 8234799.026 202.433 S15°57'18.31729" E132°48'30.91234" 244.074

HV06 251759.009 8248936.458 204.664 S15°49'33.76698" E132°40'56.44149" 246.500

HV07 251494.153 8270411.722 183.319 S15°37'55.30726" E132°40'55.46046" 225.638

HV08 227503.185 8270187.223 182.423 S15°37'53.68762" E132°27'30.32610" 224.380

HV09 259185.364 8295984.044 177.730 S15°24'06.33532" E132°45'22.57344" 220.906

HV10 236165.825 8297613.631 174.108 S15°23'05.18413" E132°32'31.55993" 216.963

HV11 209308.348 8297170.667 170.604 S15°23'09.13514" E132°17'31.31920" 213.039

HV12 202368.357 8269853.358 182.012 S15°37'54.31709" E132°13'26.90523" 223.567

HV13 284870.596 8205583.087 211.156 S16°13'14.94066" E132°59'14.68515" 252.256

HV14 247410.310 8222034.069 221.053 S16°04'07.00130" E132°38'20.12999" 262.222

HV15 256160.857 8205306.642 258.857 S16°13'14.15391" E132°43'08.19115" 299.757

HV16 211344.940 8246827.556 199.140 S15°50'26.64358" E132°18'18.19227" 240.359

HV17 181384.745 8294078.776 178.847 S15°24'37.69460" E132°01'54.30480" 220.849

HV18 160139.573 8293811.207 204.572 S15°24'36.55917" E131°50'02.41026" 246.322

HV19 210055.164 8325294.545 199.550 S15°07'55.09417" E132°18'08.03169" 243.097

HV20 205913.905 8350435.440 132.027 S14°54'16.06853" E132°15'59.83843" 176.630

HV21 234869.888 8234421.175 213.128 S15°57'19.46730" E132°31'23.38153" 254.434

HV23 259292.954 8165403.267 284.276 S16°34'52.89527" E132°44'38.67247" 324.315

HV24 285203.791 8174801.653 236.354 S16°29'56.18934" E132°59'15.64648" 276.667

HV25 274703.967 8155140.684 254.885 S16°40'32.10190" E132°53'14.71359" 294.671

HV26 227681.281 8202208.173 260.735 S16°14'43.98773" E132°27'08.43236" 301.223

HV27 200767.876 8199881.556 241.806 S16°15'48.18767" E132°12'01.67660" 281.751

HV28 171512.184 8200300.821 227.406 S16°15'20.90522" E131°55'37.51749" 266.735

HV29 171376.316 8228685.144 255.914 S15°59'58.40358" E131°55'47.17424" 296.015

HV30 143704.533 8199629.998 184.878 S16°15'28.54755" E131°40'01.77200" 223.480

HV31 115995.162 8200460.591 120.362 S16°14'46.32445" E131°24'30.42848" 158.280

HV32 91725.658 8199095.261 115.674 S16°15'16.38257" E131°10'53.68146" 153.063

HV33 75721.238 8199127.160 172.397 S16°15'05.44898" E131°01'55.76071" 209.607

HV34 83448.794 8215490.562 68.532 S16°06'18.96589" E131°06'25.91523" 106.163

HV35 72068.113 8178335.726 86.886 S16°26'18.12133" E130°59'39.21609" 123.702

HV36 64134.126 8164125.443 123.339 S16°33'54.24931" E130°55'02.64638" 159.899

NMG092 327789.001 8201558.054 207.852 S16°15'38.22020" E133°23'18.59760" 249.464

NMG100A 331527.552 8239551.125 189.680 S15°55'03.14525" E133°25'34.24915" 232.672

OP1551CP00 325359.815 8162765.598 267.260 S16°36'39.54343" E133°21'46.22264" 307.659

Table 8. Hidden Valley Primary Control Network List

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Figure 17. Primary Control Network Map

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2.5.1 Control Point Marker Construction Method

A total of 35 control point markers were used for the control survey. The design adopted

for the control point’s markers was such that the possibility of disturbance or interference

was minimised.

A 0.70 metre length of star picket was used as the cantering mark and anchoring point.

The PSM was constructed out of concrete, with approximately 2 cm protruding above the

ground level. A square concrete base approximately 45 cm square, 6 cm thick was poured

into the bottom of the hole. An 18 cm high by 15 cm diameter metal container was placed

on the hole then filled with concrete. The hole was backfilled with soil leaving the top 2 cm

exposed. The star picket was positioned down the centre, such that only approximately 2

cm protrudes above the surface of the concrete. An aluminium identification plaque/plug

was anchored on top of the concrete.

Figure 18. Control point marker construction sketch

Figure 19. Control Point Marker HV11

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2.6 Datum Reference – Geodetic Parameter

2.6.1 GDA94 MGA Zone 53 S

The project used a coordinate system referred to as the GDA94 datum, and projected to

Universal Transverse Mercator Map Grid of Australia (MGA) zone 53 S. The details of the

grid and spheroid coordinate system are as follows:

Spheroid GRS80

Datum GDA94

Semi-Major Axis 6,378,137.000 metres

Semi-Minor Axis 6,356,752.31414 meters

Second Eccentricity 0.006694380035512838

Reciprocal of Flattening 298.257222101

Projection Type Universal Transverse Mercator

Grid Zone MGA zone 56 S

Latitude of Origin 000° 00’ 00”

Central Meridian 135° 00’ 00”

False Easting 500,000 metres

False Northing 10,000,000 metres

Scale Factor along C.M. 0.9996

Geoid Model AUSGEOID09

Vertical Datum Australia Height datum AHDa

Table 9. GDA94 Datum; MGA Zone 53 S

2.6.2 GDA IGS ITRF2000; MGA 53 S

Australia sits at the leading edge of the giant Indo-Australian Plate, which moves in a

north-easterly direction.

GDA94 is coordinate datum based on ITRF92 at the fixed epoch of 1994.0. ITRF

coordinates will in general differ from GDA94 coordinates for two main reasons, namely

tectonic motion of the Australian landmass and reference frame differences. Tectonic

motion of the Australian landmass is approximately 7cm/year in the NNE direction.

Differences between the ITRF92 coordinate reference frame and the ITRF2000 are at the

several cm in magnitude. A standard 7-parameter transformation can adequately model

these differences at the cm level, provided the 7-parameter transformation parameters are

regularly updated to reflect the tectonic motion. (Adopted from paper of International

Terrestrial Reference Frame – ITRF to GDA94 Coordinate Transformation; Geoscience

Australia; Australian Government).

During the project “GDA – ITRF2000” datum was applied to transform DGPS Omnistar

coordinates on the onSEIS using GPSeismic software. Since the Omnistar coordinates

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output from onSEIS were referenced to ITRF 2000 they were transformed to GDA94 using

the following geodetic parameters and datum shift:

Table 10. GDA-ITRF2008 Datum; MGA Zone 53 S

2.7 Seismic sources units dGPS verification

For positioning purposes, the Vibroseis seismic source units were fitted with a dGPS

system that is corrected by the worldwide differential global positioning OmniSTAR XP-G2

with a reference to ITRF2000 network frame. The differential is broadcast from a network

of satellites.

To verify the positioning integrity of the seismic source units, the Vibroseis unit’s positions

were compared with known ground positions measured by RTK. A series of source

positioning integrity tests were conducted in the field close to Base Camp #1, at Forest Hill

property as part of the Project’s start-up tests. Two units; vibe 6 and 9 were tested on 14

June 2013, then the other three units; vibe 1, 2, and 4 were verified on 15 June 2013. 20

data was logged from each vibroseis unit. The positioning integrity data were analysed,

and results were included with the startup report. Positioning of the Vibroseis units were

well within the seismic industry standard and Geokinetics recording standard.

Spheroid GRS80

Datum GDA – ITRF2000-2013.5

Semi-Major Axis 6,378,137.000 metres

Reciprocal of Flattening 298.257222101

Shift Method Bursa-Wolf (7 parameters)

Datum Shift from GDA94 to WGS’84 ( geodetic; on GPSeismic sign)

DX to WGS’84 (m) -0.0724

DY to WGS’84 (m) 0.0709

DZ to WGS’84 (m) 0.1905

Rotation X -0.022724

Rotation Y -0.018420

Rotation Z -0.023352

Scale (ppm) -0.000672

Projection Transverse Mercator

Grid Zone MGA zone 53 S

Latitude of Origin 000° 00’ 00”

Central Meridian 135° 00’ 00”

False Easting 500,000 metres

False Northing 10,000,000 metres

Scale Factor along C.M. 0.9996

Vertical Datum AHDa

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Figure 20. Crew 486 Vibroseis during positioning integrity test

Source ID Data Logged Average

Δ Easting m Δ Northing m Δ Height m

Vibe #1 20 -0.01 0.03 0.12

Vibe #2 20 -0.11 0.02 0.08

Vibe #4 20 -0.07 0.08 0.00

Vibe #6 20 -0.03 -0.03 -0.27

Vibe #9 20 -0.07 0.05 0.14

Table 11. Vibroseis dGPS positioning verification

2.8 RTK GPS Surveying

Real Time Kinematic (RTK) GPS was the method used for staking out receiver locations.

As with all other differential GPS techniques, RTK relies on simultaneous information from

two GPS sensors, a reference and rover. The main difference with RTK is that no post

processing of the data is required. The reference station is setup on a point where

coordinates were accurately known. The reference station then transmits its fixed

coordinates and raw data received, via radio modem, to the roving station, where the

necessary computations are performed. All kinematic surveys require initialization before

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centimetre level accuracies are obtainable. Initialization is the process by which the

integer ambiguities are resolved. If a substantial loss of lock on a number of satellites

occurs (for example under foliage), then the system needs to be re-initialized. Dual

frequency receivers such as the Trimble R7 system can take advantage of algorithms,

which enable initialization while moving, or commonly termed on-the-fly (OTF).

Permanent survey marks established during the control survey were used as base

stations. Check readings were observed on surveyed points at the start of each working

day to verify correct system operation. Check readings confirmed that the radio link was

working, that the proper coordinates had been used at the base, that the proper

instrument heights had been entered at the base and rover, and that the resolution of

ambiguities was correct. Rover units re-observed previously staked locations after any

substantial time length of interruption or loss of initialization. All checks were compared

with known and previously surveyed results, and monitored.

Preplot coordinates were uploaded into RTK units at survey office and were copied into

the controller. The controller also stored all field-surveyed coordinates and survey quality

control information; for later processing.

All RTK operations, were planned such that no rover units operated more than 15

kilometres from a base station, to ensure the highest possible accuracies were

maintained. A trailer fitted with an extendable antenna mast (15.2 m) was utilised in order

to increase the range of the RTK GPS reference station radio signal. In addition a mobile

radio repeater was also utilised to enhance the radio coverage zones.

An elevation mask of 15 degrees and a PDOP limit of 6 were adopted for this project.

Only under exceptional circumstances was data recorded when PDOP levels exceeded

the adopted maximum. Staked locations were only logged, if the system had resolved the

carrier phase ambiguities. This was ensured by actually setting a very low CQ threshold

within the observation mission parameters, which thus prevented any observation being

stored, unless the ambiguities had been resolved. Leica GPS utilised for this project were

GNSS type. That means they can receive signal from Glonass satellites. Therefore the

observations never encountered with poor satellite numbers and geometry.

2.9 Computations

Processing of survey data occurred at the survey office in base camp. Survey data

collected during a workday was processed and finalised in the same day; such that any

anomalies detected within the data were identified and rectified in the field in the following

day.

Trimble’s Business Centre TBC, Version 2.5, software package was used to post-process

all static GPS observations after converting to RINEX format, collected during the control

survey. TBC allows the complete processing of raw GPS data, from initial baseline

solution processing, through to the final network adjustment.

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Figure 21. Surveyor marking a receiver line

Figure 22. Survey base station mast

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Dynamic Survey Solution’s ‘GPSeismic’, Version 2012.3, software package was used as

the core data management and processing software. The software was used to generate

all pre-plots and upload files, perform all datum transformations, process all RTK and

conventional data, and QC all data. RTK data was transformed onto the local datum,

heights converted to orthometric heights, and then was thoroughly QC’d before being

added to the database. All required outputs of the survey data were then performed from

the database. Quality control of all survey data was taken very seriously, with procedures

set in place from job start, to ensure that a quality final product was presented to the

client. Detailed processing logs were kept at all times, noting all actions taken on the raw

data during processing. A regular archival and backup procedure was implemented

throughout the project as a contingency action against the devastating effects of

unforeseen data loss. Due to the volume of data produced within the survey department, a

system was adopted that ensured efficiency during the backup process, as well as

effectiveness.

All mapping was undertaken in ESRI’s ‘ArcGIS 9.3’ at a suitable scale application to the

survey. Mapping field operations were carried out using a Garmin Map together with hand

notes. Mapping records were downloaded into Mapsource; exported in .GPX format and

imported into Globalmapper; and exported in .SHP format. These files were then imported

into Arcmap.

Maps of the prospect were generated on an as-needed basis and passed to the client and

relevant departments. All GPS stations, tracks, roads, fence lines, drop gates, cultural

heritage, hazardous areas and other features were plotted on the map.

No source points were marked on the ground in the open area. All source pre-plot points

were shifted to the tracks made by the line clearance using GPSeismic. The position of

each vibroseis point was interpolated, regardless of whether the array was in a straight or

crooked line. It optimised the time taken for each vibroseis unit to move into position for

the correct shot location.

2.10 Survey Data Quality Control

Crew 486 survey department procedures were reviewed to ascertain that the correct

geodetic parameters were being adhered to, under both industry standard and

Geokinetics survey specifications. Pre-plot locations for each receiver and source line

were checked independently against the original supplied coordinates. Base stations for

RTK were checked by measuring check points closest to the bench mark on a daily basis

before survey production commenced. No significant errors were found. We compared

elevation between DGPS data from the Vibroseis units with RTK measurement on

receiver lines.

The project’s GIS database was regularly updated, progress and planning maps for post

plot coordinates was maintained and uploaded to the operation’s Garmins for field

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navigation. Logistic / Shooting maps for each 2D line were also provided to the recording

crew to assist in the seismic data acquisition field operation. All required details such as

receiver stations, source positions, hazard, access points and detour routes were clearly

pointed on the Line logistic map.

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3 RECORDING OPERATIONS

The recording operation commenced with a project start-up test for sweep length, number

of vibroseis units per array and vibrator drive level to verify the project’s recording

parameters. According to the start-up test results, Pangaea selected two vibroseis units,

on a linear array configuration, per source array with two fleets operating in a flip-flop field

operation mode. To reduce the fleet interference on successive records, the two fleets

were separated by at least 100m along the seismic line.

Hidden Valley 2D survey was a Vibroseis survey, with the seismic source being I/O AHV-

IV vibrators. The receivers used were SM-24 land geophones with spikes, laid linearly.

The geophone strings were made up of 6 x Sensor SM24 10Hz 375Ω elements wired in

series and the Sercel links were configured with dual FDU’s. Every 15 links, a LAUL was

inserted on the line to rejuvenate the line voltage to 12V. Further process and condition of

the data acquired by the geophones were applied before serially transmitting data packets

to the recorder via a LAUX.

The recording system (mounted in a recording cab on an Isuzu 4x4 truck) used on this

project, comprised of a Sercel LCI-428 module interfacing the geophone spread and

peripheral equipment to the e428 client/server architecture, a Sercel VE432 Digital Pilot

Generator (DPG) controlling the Digital Servo Drives (DSD) installed in each vibrator.

Figure 23. Crew 486 recorder testing part of line equipment at startup

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Figure 24. Cable truck and Layout-Pickup operation

Figure 25. Crew486 recorder and seismic source on Line

Sercel e428 and eSQCpro client/server software were running on three HP ProLiant G6

servers. This setup was completed with a NasStart computer to archive data on a Raid for

later retrieval.

Data, Vibroseis radio simulations and mean analysis of noise on the spread. Known as

noise strip and shown in graphical format noise test were downloaded daily on to portable

hard drives to be checked, processed and transferred to data tapes by the Crew’s

geophysics department when required.

Voice communications between the recorder and the rest of the crew was achieved by 2

VHF FM radios whose aerials were mounted on top of a trailer mounted 50-foot mast

located near the recording truck.

In addition to the VE432 DSD controlling the vibrator, each vibrator was fitted with the

following equipment:

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Novatel GPS receiver (used by the DSD; chartplotter)

Motorola CDM 1250 VHF radio transceiver (for data comms)

Garmin chartplotter (for vibrator navigation)

2.4Ghz wireless module (for fleet networking)

Kenwood VHF FM transceiver (for voice comms)

All of the equipment was powered by a regulated and filtered 12VDC supply to minimize

interferences and power related issues.

Line electronics was powered by two 40Ah 12V gel cell batteries at each LAUX or LAUL.

Each line battery was fitted in a waterproof hard case for protection and easier handling

by the line field crew. Every few days each battery was rotated through base camp for

recharging in a purposely setup container where up to 80 batteries could be recharged at

a time. While the overall battery condition remains good, battery posts corrosion do occur

frequently thus requiring constant cleaning.

A full set of acceptance tests and vibrator hardwire similarity tests for each vibrator were

performed prior the start of recording operations.

Figure 26. Vibrator hardwire similarity testing

Production layout started on 17 June 2013 along the east side of the survey area. Data

acquisition was completed on 19 October 2013; with all line equipment being picked up on

20 October 2013.

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3.1 Recording Parameters

GEOMETRY

Receiver Interval 20 metres

Receiver Location Centred on stations

Receiver Array 6 phones in-line @ 2m spacing

Receiver Array Length 10 metres

Source Interval 10 metres

Source Location Centred at ST+5m and ST+15m

Source Array Inline

Number of Live Channels 500

Spread Geometry Slightly Asymmetrical Split Spread

Inline Offsets 4985 – 5 – 0 – 15 – 4995m

4995 – 15 – 0 – 5 – 4985m

Inline roll 1 receiver station, 20 metres

Near Offset 5 m

Far Offset 4995 m

Nominal Fold 500

RECORDING SYSTEM

Instrument Sercel 428 XL, 24-Bit Telemetric

Record length 4 s

Sample rate 2 ms

Low cut filter Out

High cut filter 200Hz, Linear, (0.8 Nyquist)

Notch filter Out

Correlation Zero Phase

Initial Gain 12 dB

Recording Media External Hard Disk Drive

Data Format SEG-D, 8058

Vibroseis data format Both Raw and Correlated data will be saved

SOURCE

Energy Type Vibroseis

Model Input / Output Inc. AHV-IV (60,000 lbs)

Array 2 Vibroseis units per fleet (one unit fleet also used)

Electronics Control Sercel VE 432

Communications Motorola VHF Radio

Number of Sweeps 1

Sweep Frequency 5-85 Hz

Sweep Type Linear Upsweep

Start/End tapers 250 & 300ms / 250ms

Sweep Length 8s & 12s

Listen time 4s

Drive Level 80%

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RECEIVERS

Type of Receiver SM-24 land geophones w/spike

Natural Frequency 10 Hz +/- 2 %

No. of elements per group 1 string of 6 elements wired in series

Coil Resistance 375 Ω

Critical Damping 0.69

Distortion 0.1% @ 10 Hz

Receiver spacing Equal, 2 m over 10 m array

Receiver array Linear centred on flag

Table 12. Hidden Valley 2D Recording Parameters

The recording parameters were continually tested and verified throughout the data

acquisition operation. The recording parameters were marginally changed from line to line

according to the test results. Following is a list of recording parameters per seismic line:

1. One vibrator per fleet, sweep length 12s, front/end tapers 300/250ms

PB13-01

PB13-14

PB13-12

PB13-10

PB13-08

PB13-06

PB13-04

2. One vibrator per fleet, sweep length 8s, front/end tapers 250/250ms

PB13-09

PB13-02

PB13-07 (August 04-08, VPs 83577-61852)

3. Two vibrators per fleet, sweep length 8s, front/end tapers 250/250ms

PB13-03

PB13-07 (August 09-17, VPs 61957-10012)

PB13-28

PB13-05

PB13-16

PB13-09Ext

PB13-20

PB13-13

PB13-26

PB13-11

PB13-24

PB13-17

PB13-15

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3.2 Receiver and Source Layout

3.2.1 Recording Template

The Recording template for Hidden Valley 2D seismic survey was symmetrical split spread with

500 live channels.

Figure 27. Recording Template

3.2.2 Source Array Layout

Diagram not to scale

Figure 28. Two Vibroseis Units Source Array

Diagram not to scale

Figure 29. One Vibroseis Unit Source Array

Ch#1 Ch# 250 Ch# 251 Ch# 500 4980m

20m

4980m

5m 10m 5m

10 meters

12.5m

VP N VP N+1

12.5m

10 meters

VP N VP N+1

20 meters

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3.2.3 Geophone Array Layout

Figure 30. Geophone Array

Receiver spacing: 20 m

Receiver group centred on Surveyed Stations

Array length: 10 m

Distance between elements: 2 m

Alternative arrays: If the elevation difference between first geophone and sixth

geophone exceeds 2 metres, or as a result of any obstacles during

geophone layout that prevents normal receiver arrays, a shortened

or bunched array maybe used.

Figure 31. Alternative Geophone Array

3.3 Recording Quality Control

As part of recording quality control, instrument tests were conducted on the field

electronics before recording commenced each day. This was to ensure that all equipment

functioned based on agreed tolerances. During this time, faulty equipment was identified

Bunched Geophones; 6 elements grouped in circle (0.5m radius)

Line

Direction

0.5m

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by the observers, who informed the line trouble-shooters in order to fix or replace the

failing equipment. Typical daily tests took an average of 5-10 minutes to run.

A daily radio similarity test was conducted to ensure all vibroseis units were in

specifications. Full vibroseis hardwire similarity (distortion, frequency, phase, timing,

amplitude) tests and geophone tap (polarity) test were conducted at the start of the job.

Weekly vibroseis hardwire similarity and point source similarity (PPS) were carried out

during production. The results were sent to the Geophysics Department for detailed

analysis on the same day.

During the course of recording, ambient noise was generally minimal and did not affect

data quality significantly. The observers monitored the noise level live on the active

spread monitor and reshoot any records deemed to be too noisy.

Source positioning and COGs (Centre of Gravity) were checked and verified before a

sweep was taken. A radial tolerance (typically 5m) was setup to ensure vibroseis units

were positioned on the preplot source point.

3.4 Field Communications

Radio voice communications were accomplished on four VHF FM channels either by

means of 40W mobile radios or 5W handheld radios. Base camp radio antennas were

mounted on top of a hydraulic jack up mast to maximize radio coverage. A dedicated radio

operator was manning the base camp radio at all times during working hours. The

operator was also responsible for tracking and monitoring all journeys and personnel

locations in the field. Crew 488 heavy trucks (Fuel, Water and Supply) were additionally

equipped with an UHF radio to allow communications with other truck drivers on the main

roads.

In addition to Geokinetics vehicles, line preparation contractor’s vehicles were fitted with

radios programmed with the same channel frequencies. Navigation aids (Novatel GPS

receivers and Garmin chart plotters) were also fitted in contractor heavy machinery to help

in the line preparation process.

Communications outside the prospect were accomplished by a VSAT broadband terminal

which allows Internet access at 512Kbps as well as 3 separate VOIP telephone lines.

The list below shows crew 486’s communication equipment inventory:

40 x Kenwood TK-7180H VHF FM mobile transceiver

20 x Motorola CDM1250 VHF FM mobile transceiver

28 x Vertex VX-210AV VHF FM handheld transceiver

3 x Uniden UHF transceiver

1 x GMC UHF transceiver

1 x AVL Technologies – Tracstar auto deploy VSAT system

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3.5 Recording Operation Statistics

Date Days Total VP Cumulative VP Avg VP Rate

17-Jun-13 1 37 37 37

18-Jun-13 2 769 806 403

19-Jun-13 3 797 1603 534

20-Jun-13 4 1188 2791 698

21-Jun-13 5 1203 3994 799

22-Jun-13 6 748 4742 790

23-Jun-13 7 1194 5936 848

24-Jun-13 8 1297 7233 904

25-Jun-13 9 1102 8335 926

26-Jun-13 10 843 9178 918

27-Jun-13 11 1052 10230 930

28-Jun-13 12 837 11067 922

29-Jun-13 13 1119 12186 937

30-Jun-13 14 1327 13513 965

01-Jul-13 15 1081 14594 973

02-Jul-13 16 1066 15660 979

03-Jul-13 17 831 16491 970

04-Jul-13 18 945 17436 969

05-Jul-13 19 1099 18535 976

06-Jul-13 20 1192 19727 986

07-Jul-13 21 1136 20863 993

08-Jul-13 22 871 21734 988

09-Jul-13 23 1063 22797 991

10-Jul-13 24 1263 24060 1003

11-Jul-13 25 1082 25142 1006

12-Jul-13 26 1219 26361 1014

13-Jul-13 27 1080 27441 1016

14-Jul-13 28 1238 28679 1024

15-Jul-13 29 897 29576 1020

16-Jul-13 30 1414 30990 1033

17-Jul-13 31 1428 32418 1046

18-Jul-13 32 1598 34016 1063

19-Jul-13 33 1640 35656 1080

20-Jul-13 34 761 36417 1071

21-Jul-13 35 1213 37630 1075

22-Jul-13 36 1235 38865 1080

23-Jul-13 37 916 39781 1075

24-Jul-13 38 1208 40989 1079

25-Jul-13 39 1267 42256 1083

26-Jul-13 40 292 42548 1064

27-Jul-13 41 1498 44046 1074

28-Jul-13 42 1607 45653 1087

29-Jul-13 43 1412 47065 1095

30-Jul-13 44 1654 48719 1107

31-Jul-13 45 1451 50170 1115

01-Aug-13 46 1373 51543 1121

02-Aug-13 47 1134 52677 1121

03-Aug-13 48 1291 53968 1124

04-Aug-13 49 600 54568 1114

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Date Days Total VP Cumulative VP Avg VP Rate

05-Aug-13 50 1068 55636 1113

06-Aug-13 51 1045 56681 1111

07-Aug-13 52 1231 57912 1114

08-Aug-13 53 845 58757 1109

09-Aug-13 54 707 59464 1101

10-Aug-13 55 791 60255 1096

11-Aug-13 56 930 61185 1093

12-Aug-13 57 1262 62447 1096

13-Aug-13 58 1240 63687 1098

14-Aug-13 59 1229 64916 1100

15-Aug-13 60 1372 66288 1105

16-Aug-13 61 1474 67762 1111

17-Aug-13 62 1384 69146 1115

18-Aug-13 63 612 69758 1107

19-Aug-13 64 961 70719 1105

20-Aug-13 65 992 71711 1103

21-Aug-13 66 1160 72871 1104

22-Aug-13 67 970 73841 1102

23-Aug-13 68 877 74718 1099

24-Aug-13 69 1219 75937 1101

25-Aug-13 70 1273 77210 1103

26-Aug-13 71 821 78031 1099

27-Aug-13 72 894 78925 1096

28-Aug-13 73 1507 80432 1102

29-Aug-13 74 1505 81937 1107

30-Aug-13 75 1249 83186 1109

31-Aug-13 76 1334 84520 1112

01-Sep-13 77 1031 85551 1111

02-Sep-13 78 1072 86623 1111

03-Sep-13 79 1149 87772 1111

04-Sep-13 80 969 88741 1109

05-Sep-13 81 1025 89766 1108

06-Sep-13 82 668 90434 1103

07-Sep-13 83 556 90990 1096

08-Sep-13 84 1089 92079 1096

09-Sep-13 85 1287 93366 1098

10-Sep-13 86 1507 94873 1103

11-Sep-13 87 1392 96265 1106

12-Sep-13 88 1310 97575 1109

13-Sep-13 89 1301 98876 1111

14-Sep-13 90 1099 99975 1111

15-Sep-13 91 1050 101025 1110

16-Sep-13 92 1115 102140 1110

17-Sep-13 93 381 102521 1102

18-Sep-13 94 1155 103676 1103

19-Sep-13 95 1228 104904 1104

20-Sep-13 96 1392 106296 1107

21-Sep-13 97 1502 107798 1111

22-Sep-13 98 1182 108980 1112

23-Sep-13 99 559 109539 1106

24-Sep-13 100 877 110416 1104

25-Sep-13 101 1315 111731 1106

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Date Days Total VP Cumulative VP Avg VP Rate

26-Sep-13 102 1591 113322 1111

27-Sep-13 103 1300 114622 1113

28-Sep-13 104 1541 116163 1117

29-Sep-13 105 1288 117451 1119

30-Sep-13 106 1397 118848 1121

01-Oct-13 107 164 119012 1112

02-Oct-13 108 1122 120134 1112

03-Oct-13 109 992 121126 1111

04-Oct-13 110 1097 122223 1111

05-Oct-13 111 1171 123394 1112

06-Oct-13 112 1049 124443 1111

07-Oct-13 113 1198 125641 1112

08-Oct-13 114 1395 127036 1114

09-Oct-13 115 663 127699 1110

10-Oct-13 116 1400 129099 1113

11-Oct-13 117 1214 130313 1114

12-Oct-13 118 1373 131686 1116

13-Oct-13 119 1384 133070 1118

14-Oct-13 120 1532 134602 1122

15-Oct-13 121 1315 135917 1123

16-Oct-13 122 1161 137078 1124

17-Oct-13 123 1611 138689 1128

18-Oct-13 124 1056 139745 1127

19-Oct-13 125 983 140728 1126

Table 13. Hidden Valley 2D daily production statistics

3.6 Operational Comments

3.6.1 Logistics

The recording crew arrived at Daly Waters on 9 June 2013. All crew members had safety

and Pangaea site specific induction on 13 June 2013. For production days, the recording

crew used to meet at crew base location for the morning toolbox meeting before leaving to

Hidden Valley 2D Production Statistics

Preplot total VPs 140,728

Total VPs recorded 140,395

Total VPs skipped 333

Total days of production 125

Average VPs recorded per day 1,126

Highest number of VPs recorded per day 1,654

Lowest number of VPs recorded per day 37

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the field, except a few observers, trouble-shooters and vibrator drivers left early to check the

line and prepared for production.

Data acquisition covered a total of 125 days, with no single day without production.

Production hours were stable although it was sometimes reduced due to line break by

cattle, detour due to line change and long drives to and from the field. Cattle problems

were faced for most of the survey area and a lot of damage to active spread, which in turn

resulted in loss of recording time. Trouble shooting in the mornings took, occasionally up

to three hours to have active spread with less than 1% failures. A possible solution to this

would be to have Land access coordinate with property owners, ahead of time, about

moving the cattle before line crew arrives with equipment.

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Figure 32. Recording daily production histogram

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All five vibroseis units worked well although there was small amount downtime due to

radio communication problem between recorder and vibroseis. Thick bush and tree

canopies in some areas were probably the main reason for poor communication. The

quality of the data was the best in the conditions that the vibes had to deal with. Some of

the lines were through very rough terrain; however, the vibroseis units generated a clear

signal with minimum distortion on the acquired data. Having two vibroseis fleets working in

flip-flop “ping-pong” mode worked out well and highly benefited the daily production. It was

a great advantage in planning for as little amount of downtime in production as possible.

Individual land owners had property specific conditions that were required to be followed

such as certified or weed and seed wash downs or specific points of ingress or egress. To

insure recording was carried out as productively as possible operations meeting were held

among client, Pastoralists, and PM to determine the most efficient way to precede on the

following days recording and preparation activities. Blowdown locations were strategically

placed to the most effective positions. Where access was limited, and land holders were

agreeable, gates were placed to limit detour times.

3.6.2 Noise on the active recording patch

Seismic 2D lines that were located along district roads, highways and rail track were

beneficial in regards of decreasing access time and reducing access costs but

complicated other aspects of the operation. Third party traffic and traffic noise was

unavoidable and where possible, recording would wait for trains passing through before

resuming the recording. Traffic control was utilised to safely conduct operations. Alternate

access routes where possible, were also used by company vehicles to decrease the effect

of ambient noise on the recording spread.

3.6.3 Downtime

Long distance travel and Vibroseis detour around sand dunes affected the recording

production. The total detour downtime for the project was 23.53 hours or approximately

6.3% of the total duration for the project.

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Figure 33. Breakdown of Hidden Valley 2D Total Times

Figure 34. Breakdown of Hidden Valley 2D Operational Times

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Figure 35. Breakdown of Chargeable Standby

Figure 36. Breakdown of Non-chargeable Downtime

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3.6.4 Line Equipment Damage

About 80% line equipment incidents were reported throughout the project where

equipment was damaged by cattle and wildlife. As an average 3 cables per day were

changed due to telemetry errors, test errors or wildlife chews. To minimise the damage

caused by cattle due to operating on farm blocks; the Pastoralist liaison discussed and

agreed on supplying of protein salt blocks to steer the cattle away from the line and

equipment that was highly beneficial in reducing cable damages. Damaged or faulty line

equipment were removed from the spread and sent back to Geokinetics Workshop in

Brisbane for repairs.

Item Number

Geophone Strings 1706

Cables 353

LAULs 5

Transverse Cables 1

Battery 6

Table 14. Hidden Valley 2D Equipment Damage Statistics

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4 GEOPHYSICAL QC AND DATA PROCESSING

The aim of the quality control (QC) and field data processing is to ensure that the field

processes and procedures throughout the life cycle of the project are in accordance with

Geokinetics standard quality assurance (QA) testing and QA protocols. The role of Crew

486 Geophysics Department was to provide the geophysical support to Pangaea 2013

Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey and to liaise with the Client and the onsite Client’s

Representative on all issues related to the geophysics parts of the operation. Well before

the start-up of seismic data acquisition; the Client was directly involved in the project’s

recording parameters, design and the different possibilities of projects’ implementation.

These efforts continued throughout the operation.

The Geophysics Department also maintained a Quality Assurance and Quality Control

role, to provide seismic data that is exempt of any anomaly; and can be directly utilised

into the final data processing flows with a high level of confidence. The field QC work flow

presented hereafter details all of the steps taken to guarantee an accurate geometry

and that the sources and receivers are within Geokinetics recording specifications

standards and the signed contract.

The Crew Geophysics Department staff comprised of two senior geophysicists with many

years of field experience plus two geophysicists.

4.1 Geophysics Departmental Responsibilities

4.1.1 Interaction with Survey Department

Following Pangaea approval of the preplot survey design; the Geophysics Department

provided the theoretical pre-plot coordinates, source and receiver offset guidelines to the

Survey Department. Survey Department in turn prepared, then provided the appropriate

maps to the cultural heritage monitors, line clearing team, field layout crews, and detailed

maps to the recording team.

At the end of day the geophysics department collected the daily activities from other

departments. Daily production files including surveying, recording, line pickup and layout,

were maintained and sent to the survey department to update the operation progress map

for daily report purposes. Daily source point centre of gravity “COG”, and edited observer

logs were also sent to survey department for verification and conversion of raw recording

coordinates into project’s local coordinates (GDA94).

4.1.2 Interaction with Line Clearing Teams

Seismic line clearing was minimal for the project as most of the seismic 2D lines were

along road, tracks and properties boundaries. Pangaea Client representatives were

supervising the seismic line clearing field activities through subcontracting local farmers to

clear the seismic line sectors within their properties. Daily line clearing production logs

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were checked by survey department before data was appended to the operation database

at the Geophysics department.

4.1.3 Interaction with Recording Department

The acquired seismic data was saved on external Hard Disk Drives “HDD” in SEG-D Rev

2.1 format. The daily HDD was delivered to the QC department and normal seismic data

quality control was then performed on the data.

Final source and receivers coordinates would be appended to the SPS files that would

then be quality controlled. The final geometry was assigned to the seismic data and then

loaded on to ProMax. Source and receivers indices were introduced to the final SPS files.

Details of source and receiver SPS indices for each of the acquired 2D lines were well

documented in the Line reports that were sent as part of the final data shipment.

4.2 Schematic interaction diagram

The Geophysics Department interacted comprehensively with Survey and Recording

Departments. Data QC operations began in conjunction with the Survey Department,

refining theoretical pre-plot coordinates and defining source and receiver offset guidelines;

then continued with recording departments until the last shot of 3D seismic program.

Figure 37. Geophysics Department Data Flowchart

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To ensure integrity of the recording sequence and to maintain consistency between actual

recording and pre-planned acquisition, all recording was governed by script files

generated from the final pre-planned models. Shooting scripts for each shot point were

provided to the Recording Department by the Geophysics Department. GMG Mesa was

used on the crew to ensure that offset source and receiver points were allocated with

minimal adverse effect on the final binning.

4.3 Equipment and Software

4.3.1 Processing Workstation (QC & Infield Data Processing)

Workstation Elements Parameters Employed and Recorded

Server HP ProLiant Server DL380G5

RAID Array 12 x 2 TB RAID, HOT SPARE as configured

HP Storage works HP Ultrium LTO2 Tape Drive

HP Ultrium LTO3 Tape Drive

Network 24 Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch

Cisco router and UPS

Table 15. Field Data Processing Workstation

4.3.2 Other Hardware

Hardware Elements Parameters Employed and Recorded

CPUs 1 x Intel ®Core™ i7 CPU 2.8 GHz, 4 GB RAM,

500GB HDD

CPUs 1 x Intel ® Xeon® CPU [email protected], 32Gb RAM

1.0TB HDD

Printers 1 x B/W printer/scanner Brother MFC-740

1 x Colour laser printer Samsung CLX-3185FW

External HDD Several 2.0 TB, 1.0 TB and 500 GB external Hard Disk

Drives

Table 16. QC hardware

4.3.3 QC Software

Software Elements Parameters Employed and Recorded

QC Software ProMax 2D version 2003.19.1

MESA Professional version 12.0

Exceed version 12.0

Testif-I Test Processing Suite v2.06

Microsoft Office Suite 2010

Table 17. QC software

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4.4 Project Database

An integral part of the Geophysics Department daily duties was keeping and maintaining

the operations database, and producing daily reports. All of Crew 486 departments

provided statistics of their daily activities to update the operation database. A daily report

was compiled from this information, representing the daily statistics that cover all aspects

of the daily operation. This report was presented to the Project Manager for approval and

distribution to the relevant parties within Geokinetics and Pangaea.

4.5 Project Start-up Tests

4.5.1 Acceptance tests

A comprehensive instrument acceptance start-up test was conducted on 1,500 geophone

strings at Geokinetics Brisbane Workshop. Analysis and results of the geophones

instrument test was collected into an Excel spreadsheet and was presented to the Client

Representative as part of the project’s start-up report prior to the field data acquisition

operation. Similarly a total of 1500 Sercel FDU cables were tested with Sercel 408 XL and

Sercel TMU 428 Systems at Geokinetics Brisbane Workshop.

Other start-up acceptance tests included hardwire similarity for the Vibroseis units, zero

timing, polarity and phase tests, DGPS positioning accuracy verification were conducted

in base camp,

On a daily basis all equipment deployed on the seismic line were tested further before the

startup of daily production. Daily test results were included to the daily observer logs.

4.5.2 Source effort Tests

Test #

Taper ms

Number of

Vibrators

Number of

Sweeps

Sweep Frequency

(Hz)

Sweep Length (sec)

Drive Level (%)

VPs Range

VP Interval

(m)

1

250

2 2 5 - 100 6 65 11302 - 11807 5

2 2 1 5 - 100 6 80 11305 - 11805 20

3 2 1 5 - 100 8 65 11305 - 11805 20

4 2 1 5 - 100 8 80 11305 - 11805 20

5 1 1 5 - 100 6 65 11302 - 11807 5

6 3 1 5 - 100 8 80 11302 - 11807 10

7 1, 2, 3 1 5 - 85 6, 8, 10, 12 80 11807 N/A

8 2 1 5 - 85 10 80 11302 - 11807 10

9 1 1 5 - 85 12 80 11302 - 11807 10

Table 18. Source Effort Testing Parameters

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Source effort tests were carried out on 16 -17 and 21 June 2013 on a 2D test line to

evaluate and finalise the recording parameters for the 2D seismic survey. Seismic data

along the test line; the southern 8.560 kilometres of seismic line PB13-03, were acquired

and processed. The 2D test line was specifically located along sinkholes to contemplate

some of the geophysical challenges of the local geology on the acquired seismic data.

Two sinkholes that were recognised with about 60 metres diameter at the surface were

centred at the middle of the test line; the rest of the test line was generally open and easily

accessible.

Identical data processing flows were applied on the tested data using ProMax data

processing system. Seismic datasets were analysed according to three categories:

2D mini brute stacks of the acquired data along the test line.

Amplitude spectral analyses of the mini brute stacks to compare the frequency

contents & distribution of the seismic signal.

Raw display and amplitude spectral analysis of selected vibroseis points along the

2D test line.

According to the source test results, it was evident that the challenging surface conditions

of high density / high seismic velocity near surface layer and the presence of sinkholes /

karst topography deteriorate the quality of the acquired seismic data. From the start of the

operation, optimising the recording parameters endured a special emphasis to improve

the data quality of the acquired seismic data and minimise the effects of near surface

geology on the seismic data.

A comprehensive report on the source effort test was presented to Pangaea and the

onsite Client Representatives. Following are highlights from that report.

A clear result was the 10m VP interval produced much better seismic stacks

than the 20m VP interval.

The spectral analysis of the test indicated two Vibroseis units source array may

produce a good signal at the lower sweep lengths (6-10 s). However, the one

Vibroseis unit array may give a better seismic signal at the 12 seconds sweep

length.

A one sweep per VP was sufficient, particularly with the high fold 10m VP

interval scenario. There was no additional image illumination power with 2

sweeps per VP.

There was some improvement of the stacks with 80% drive level.

The frequency range test that was conducted with a 5-85 Hz sweeping

frequency rather than the initial 5-100 Hz. The stack’s an-retainable higher

sweeping frequency would over saturate the geological section with

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undesirable seismic distortion noise at the high frequency rang. A 5-85 Hz was

recommended.

Based on the test results, Pangaea decided to deploy one vibroseis unit per fleet with 12

seconds sweep length for data acquisition along the first few seismic lines (PB13-01, 02,

06, 08, 10 and 14) at the East side of the survey area. More source tests were carried on

Line PB13-07 (intersected with Line PB13-02, 8 August 2013), Line PB13-28 (intersected

with Line PB13-05, 22 August 2013) and Line PB13-20 (West, 7 October 2013) in order to

maintain optimum recording parameters that reflected the surface conditions along each

seismic line and the near surface geological section.

4.6 Planning and Design

Pangaea senior geophysics staff prepared the initial survey design before the field

operation commenced. Offset, relocation guidelines and design variation tolerance were

produced by the Geophysics Department, based on Pangaea’s technical standards and

supervision. Details of preplot 2D seismic lines were discussed then approved by the

onsite Client’s Representative prior to field implementation.

2013 Hidden Valley 2D preplot program consisted of 23 2D seismic lines; total 1410 km

(Appendix C). There were a total of 70,523 receiver stations with 20 metres group interval

and 141,000 Vibroseis Points at 10 metres source point interval.

The Seismic program was modified during the survey implementation. Final locations and

lengths of the 2D seismic lines were revised as the topographic survey of the seismic lines

progressed. Two lines (PB13-18 & PB13-22) at the west end of the survey area were

cancelled by Pangaea due to limited access and rugged terrain. On the other hand, lines

PB13-05 and PB13-16 were extended. Line PB13-09 was also extended after the

completion of seismic data acquisition along the original line, a new line labelled PB13-

09ext was added to the project. Line PB13-28 course was modified due to limited land

access and work permits.

At the completion of data acquisition, data QCing and field data processing; the 2D

program totalled 1407.28 line kilometres. The project’s total acquired VPs were 140,395

with 333 VPs were skipped due to field obstacles, and other operational / logistical

reasons.

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4.6.1 Project final statistics

Table 19. 2013 Hidden Valley 2D Survey Final Statistics

4.7 Geophysics Department Standard Methodology

4.7.1 Assigning Geometry with ProMAX

The survey geometry information was based on preplot and survey postplot SPS files.

Final source coordinates were derived from the Centre of Gravity (COG) of the Vibroseis

unit for each source point. Receiver coordinates were based on the RTK coordinates as

provided by the Survey department.

The shooting geometry information was loaded onto the in-house built Excel spreadsheet

designed specifically for this project. This consisted of source, receiver and relational SPS

files, along with observer’s logs and the source and receiver coordinates from the Survey

department. A first set of SPS files was then transferred from the spreadsheet and

assigned to the seismic data loaded in ProMax.

Line

Start Date

Completed Date

Total VPs

Total RPs

Total km

1 PB13-03 17/06/2013 22/06/2013 4504 2253 45.040

2 PB13-01 22/06/2013 26/06/2013 4330 2166 43.300

3 PB13-14 26/06/2013 28/06/2013 1644 823 16.440

4 PB13-12 28/06/2013 29/06/2013 1708 855 17.080

5 PB13-10 30/06/2013 01/07/2013 1700 851 17.000

6 PB13-08 01/07/2013 02/07/2013 1774 888 17.740

7 PB13-06 03/07/2013 04/07/2013 1776 889 17.760

8 PB13-04 05/07/2013 15/07/2013 12070 6036 120.700

9 PB13-09 15/07/2013 26/07/2013 12888 6445 128.880

10 PB13-02 26/07/2013 04/08/2013 12038 6020 120.380

11 PB13-07 04/08/2013 17/08/2013 14714 7358 147.140

12 PB13-28 18/08/2013 23/08/2013 5294 2648 52.940

13 PB13-05 23/08/2013 06/09/2013 15994 7998 159.940

14 PB13-16 07/09/2013 15/09/2013 10144 5073 101.440

15 PB13-09Ext 15/09/2013 16/09/2013 1562 782 15.620

16 PB13-20 17/09/2013 08/10/2013 24896 12449 248.960

17 PB13-13 09/10/2013 15/10/2013 8162 4082 81.620

18 PB13-26 15/10/2013 16/10/2013 1058 530 10.580

19 PB13-11 16/10/2013 16/10/2013 822 412 8.220

20 PB13-24 17/10/2013 18/10/2013 1828 915 18.280

21 PB13-17 18/10/2013 18/10/2013 686 344 6.860

22 PB13-15 18/10/2013 19/10/2013 1136 569 11.360

Total 140728 70386 1407.280

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4.7.2 QC Checks for Discrepancies & Anomalies

The geophysicists then checked for discrepancies between seismic data and its related

survey geometry. If required, receiver coordinates were investigated. Shot geometry was

also checked in two different ways to ensure the correct geometry. First geometry

checked done by near offset shot display. Secondly, Linear Move-Out (LMO) displays

were used to perform this step. Usually the LMO is less effective in picking

source/receivers coordinates anomalies on 2D lines.

Once those geometric corrections had been applied, SPS files were produced and

checked for formatting errors using Geokinetics' software “SPSFileIO' software. With

these files, geometric datasets were produced to facilitate further checking and correction

if required. After this check, final ancillary data was produced to be delivered to the client.

4.7.3 Scripts Provided to Recording Department

To ensure the integrity of the recording sequence, and to maintain consistency between

preplan acquisition and actual recording, all recording was governed by script files

generated from the agreed pre-plot model(s).

Scripts for entire project were provided to the Recording Department by the Geophysics

Department; exclusions; and a list of shot points. GXT Technology’s 3D/2D survey

planning software, Mesa Professional, was used to ensure that offset source and receiver

points were allocated with minimal effect on the final CDP coverage.

4.8 Field Seismic Data Processing

4.8.1 Monitoring of Raw Data Records

All records received from the field were loaded into ProMax data processing system and

checked as an initial QCing step in the shot domain. During loading the daily SEG-D raw

data, the SEG-D header, including extended header, were displayed and checked to

ensure the recording parameters were consistent throughout the whole duration of the

project. Time breaks and general trends in reflection continuity, noise and surface geology

could be observed in addition to reflection continuity, coherency, and bad or dead receiver

stations. Anomalous records were promptly reported to the Observer to reinvestigate

where a bad geophone suspected. As a general rule, substandard records were

investigated; reported and proper remedy actions were taken.

Seismic data quality was generally good; however various types of seismic noise were

expected as the 2D lines were along active roads and tracks. To reduce the seismic noise

generated by wind and weather, all receivers were planted firmly into ground or buried

whenever it was possible. In addition the Observer limited the crew’s vehicles activities

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while recording and monitored the traffic for third party road users. Detailed remarks and

comments were added to the observer logs reflecting the possible noise sources during

the data acquisition.

Figure 38. Sample of SEGD Header & Extended Header information

4.8.2 Auxiliary Channels

The Auxiliary Check Flow in ProMax displays auxiliary traces for each shot with the

relevant information from the auxiliary channels. This flow was used on a daily basis to

ensure that all recording instruments were working within specifications and that all

recording timing was consistent. Any Shot recorded with missing or inconsistent auxiliary

channels were noted and reported to observers immediately.

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Channel Number Header Remarks

-1 Pilot Pilot

-2 Return Ref Vibrator Return Reference

-3 Sim GND Force No SIM, will look like noise.

-4 TimeBreak TimeBreak

-5 Correlation pulse Correlation pulse@ 2sec.

-6 100HZCLOCK 100 Hz reference frequency

Table 20. Vibroseis Auxiliary Channels Setup (Without SIM)

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Channel Number Header Remarks

-1 Pilot Pilot

-2 Return Ref Vibe Return Reference

-3 Sim GND Force Sim GND Force Return

-4 TimeBreak TimeBreak

-5 Correlation pulse Correlation pulse @ 2sec.

-6 100HZCLOCK 100 Hz reference frequency

Table 21. Vibroseis Auxiliary Channels Setup (With SIM)

4.8.3 Daily Deliverables

As part of the daily QC routine, screenshots for selected shots, instrument test results,

vibroseis performance, along with recording metadata were presented to the client

representative by email for consideration and review. The daily deliverable package to the

client representative consisted of:

Screenshots of selected raw SEG-D files.

Screenshots of noise level in morning & afternoon.

Raw observer logs.

Observer downtime log.

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Instrument test analysis results in PDF.

Screenshots of vibrator radio similarity test results.

Vibrator performance specifications in Excel.

Daily progress map (line clearance, survey, pick-up/layout and recording)

Daily Report in PDF.

Field brute stacks.

Vibrator hardwire similarity and PSS test results (weekly)

Figure 39. Raw Vibroseis shot display with 500 live channels active

4.8.4 Load daily production into project database

After the raw seismic records were checked and the Vibroseis Point’s COG coordinates

were converted into local (GDA94) coordinate system by the survey department; daily

field observer log, SPS files and the COG were loaded into a specially designed Excel

spread sheets (built with Excel macro) to remove the files for void records and output a

clean SPS files. At that stage, the daily SPS files were introduced an appended to the

project’s Excel database. The database provides reliable, consistent and data QCed

functions. Anomalous coordinates and elevations of source and receiver points could be

easily found, investigated and reconciled. Source and receiver codes and indices were

also integrated into the database at this stage.

4.8.5 Project’s SPS files

The cleaned SPS files from the project’s database were loaded and formatted to ProMax

data processing system and standard SPS format; geometry was applied and LMO

source and receiver geometry checking were deployed.

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Final SPS files were checked using the utility SPS Suite checker. This program thoroughly

verifies consistency between receiver, source and relational records. It also flags missing

receivers/sources, data outside given ranges, header formatting and ordering errors.

4.8.6 Building Geometry in ProMax

Using the output ProMAX formatted SPS data from the database; the geometry

information from the SPS files was loaded to ProMax database and to the field data to

create a seismic dataset with geometry loaded in the headers (often referred to as

“geometry appended seismic dataset”). The log file “ProMax output file” produced by the

“Apply Geometry” flow was inspected to ensure all the valid records and all their channels

were properly matched to the database information. The total number of traces in the

dataset was also checked. A geometry applied gate was used to check the final

coordinates of sources and receivers as a further check of the data received from the

Survey Department.

Figure 40. Geometry Applied shot gather with a geometry check gate

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Figure 41. Source Position Check with near offset geometry gate

Figure 42. Source Position LMO Check with limited offset

Figure 43. LMO receiver verification display

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4.8.7 Data Processing Flow

After the geometry had been checked, a simple data processing sequence was followed

to obtain a field brute stack. The purpose of the field stack was not to create an

interpretation tool but simply as field check of the integrity of the acquired seismic dataset

and the accompanying SPS files, as well as to monitor data quality. The following

processing flow was used on ProMAX, Version 2003.19.1:

STEP NOTES

1 Read SEG-D Data Read SEG-D from hard drive, sort traces in the raw dataset

by component block. Separate the auxiliaries from RAW

dataset.

2 Check RAW Dataset When the data is received; after loading in ProMAX, check

visually for all the shots traces. At this stage check for any

line breaks, timing errors, quick QC of the data.

Trace Display (Scalar Mode – Individual; Gain – 1).

3 Geometry Assign to

Database

Source & receiver coordinates and correlation file were

prepared using a specially designed Excel spreadsheet.

4 Apply Datum Statics Final Datum elevation 200

Replacement Velocity 2800

5 Analyse LMO Position checking both for source and receiver positions.

6 Process Shot Domain /

CSP

Datum Statics Apply

AGC (600ms)

Surface Wave Noise Attenuation

Top Mute

Bandpass Filter (6-10-70-85)

Spiking/Predictive Deconvolution (Min. phase predictive)

Trace Equalization

7 2D Velocity Analysis 2D Supergather Select

CDP increment 100

CDPs to combine 25

Velocity Analysis

8 Brute Stack Normal Moveout Correction

Stretch mute percentage 30

9 Stack Display BP Filter Time and Space variant filter

Automatic Gain Control

Type of AGC Scalar Mean

AGC Operator Length ms 750

Basis of scalar application Centred

Trace Display

Table 22. Field Data Processing Flows

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4.8.8 Velocity Analysis

Interactive velocity analysis was carried out within the 2D seismic data of the acquired

line. Detailed velocity samples were analysed at 1000m intervals. An initial fixed guiding

velocity function (2200 - 6000m/sec) was used for velocity picking at eastern lines of the

project. However, for the western lines 2200-8000m/sec was used as guiding function due

to higher velocity. Velocity functions were then used to generate a brute stack at the end

of each line.

Figure 44. Typical Velocity analysis panel

4.9 Field Brute Stack

The 2D field brute stacks of the acquired seismic data show continuous, coherent

reflectors at the project’s target two-way-travel (TWT) time from the very near surface

down to about 2000 msec. Deeper reflectors are also visible along some sections down to

4000 msec TWT (i.e., Line PB13-13).

Seismic data quality of the acquired 2D lines is excellent with a very good signal-to-noise

(S/N) ratio and very high fold coverage. It is evident that the seismic noise generated by

vehicles, living activities around the 2D lines and abundant livestock within the survey

area was successfully supressed by the stacking algorithm and the high trace fold seismic

recording geometry. The field processed brute stacks are clear from seismic noise, even

without applying special noise filtering or complex trace editing. The noise that appears in

the raw shot display gathers was generally collapsed in the field stacks. Following screen

shots show a few line sections of field brute stacks.

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Figure 45. Field Brute Stack along Line PB13-01

Figure 46. Field Brute Stack along Line PB13-07

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Figure 47. Field Brute Stack along Line PB13-02

Figure 48. Field Brute Stack along Line PB13-04

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Figure 49. Field Brute Stack along Line PB13-16

Figure 50. Field Brute Stack along Line PB13-020

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Figure 51. Field Brute Stack along Line PB13-013

Figure 52. Field Brute Stack along Line PB13-11

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Figure 53. Field Brute Stack along Line PB13-24

Figure 54. Field Brute Stack along Line PB13-05

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4.10 Project’s Deliverables

Data shipments were stored and sent under protected cover and under environmentally

controlled conditions to maintain the integrity of the data medium. The main medium for

data shipment was hard disk drive that was considered as the most reliable media for

seismic data shipment. A full record of the data shipments to all destinations were kept

and maintained by Crew 486 Geophysics Department.

Deliverables provided at the End of the project:

Data Shipment consisted of two copies “A and B” of the following items on external hard

disk drives:

Field RAW Seismic data (in SEG-D)

Field Correlated Seismic data (in SEG-D)

Brute Stack (in JPG)

Raw observer logs

Final edited observer’s report and line acquisition parameters

Final SPS files

QC Report

Screenshots of source and receiver LMO along the 2D lines

Screenshots of postplot sources, receivers and fold distribution

Data Shipment inventory

Navigational (receiver and source positioning information)

COPY A was delivered to the client’s specified processing centre in Brisbane immediately

after completed data acquisition for each seismic line. At the same time field brute stacks

in SEG-Y along with final navigation data saved on a USB memory stick were sent to

Pangaea Office in Sydney. COPY B was sent to the Client in Sydney at the end of the

project.

Data shipment contact:

COPY A

Velseis Processing

83 Jijaws St

Summer Park

QLD 4074

Attn: Karel Driml

COPY B

Pangaea Resources Pty Ltd

Level 50, 1 Farrer Place

Governor Philip Tower

Sydney, NSW 2000

Attn: Mike Lonergan

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5 HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT (HSE)

Geokinetics Crew 486 advance party mobilised to Pangaea 2013 Hidden Valley 2D

seismic survey on 7 May 2013. All Crew personnel received Pangaea and Geokinetics

field Inductions in the first location of the Crew’s base camp on 13 June 2013.

Crew 486 utilised a mobile camp and changed camp locations five times to follow-up the field operations along the vastly stretched 2D seismic lines.

Overall, it was a very good outcome considering the environmental conditions, terrain

variance, logistics of camp and equipment moves that there were no recordable incident

cases, lost time incidents or fatalities during the course of the project. The following is the

incident classification breakdown:

1, First Aid Cases: 8

2, Medical Treatment Cases: 0

3. Restricted Work Cases: 0

4. Environmental Incidents: 1

5. Damage Incidents: 11

6. Near Misses: 1

The total hours accumulated without lost time due to injury (LTI) was 74,376 hours.

Figure 55. Breakdown of total hours without LTI

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5.1 Key Elements

5.1.1 Leadership and Commitment

Corporate QHSE 2013 policies signed by the Geokinetics President and Chief Executive

Officer David Crowley were posted in the crew office entrance and the QHSE Notice

Boards. These policies were reviewed during the induction program and at intervals

throughout the project duration. Senior crew management commenced the proceedings at

each morning toolbox and the evening operations meeting. Input at the Weekly Heads of

Department (HOD) Safety Meetings also provided a clear demonstration of leadership and

their commitment to the QHSE MS applied on crew.

Personal statements on safety were a regular feature of senior management’s

commitment to the transfer of safety related information. Regular reviews where

conducted of the Action Point List, STOP card submissions and weekly HOD safety

meeting minutes to ensure items requiring attention were monitored for remedial action

and close-out. Senior management were involved in all incident reviews and classification

before monitoring the close-out of each proposed remedy to guard against re-

occurrences.

All morning toolboxes were conducted with safety at the forefront. Operational content

was always backed up with a reminder that safety came first in every activity the crew

undertook. When items or actions were required to maintain high standards of safety,

management were committed to the supply of resources to ensure close-out was

achieved. Senior management maintained communications with other Geokinetics crews,

Brisbane head office and corporate headquarters to ensure intra and intercompany safety

performances were evaluated to benchmark and determine best practice. Participation in

standard and target setting and the implementation of procedure and measurement

systems by senior management ensured realistic and reliable goal setting analysis could

be achieved.

5.1.2 Organisational and Operational Requirements

Line management accountability and responsibility is clearly defined in every plan,

procedure and job description. Crew supervisors and group foremen have conducted their

duties in line with line management definition. Regular review both formally and informally

were maintained to ensure performance objectives were assessed and achieved.

A robust Safety Management Plan (SMP) and Emergency Response Plan (ERP) were in

place prior to project commencement and reviewed throughout to ensure effectiveness.

Events during the project further enhanced the plans content.

Senior crew management and QHSE Advisors are holders of Certificate IV in

Occupational Health & Safety. Crew management and QHSE Advisors maintained a

direct and functional link to all senior management within the organisation. All QHSE

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Advisors have substantial experience in land seismic operations and demonstrated sound

knowledge of and compliance to current QHSE management practices.

Safety is never tacked on to the operational requirements and the QHSE department

members have again provided a sound supportive role to line management while

representing the employees and contractors throughout the project.

5.2 Inductions and Training

5.2.1 Inductions

Orientation and inductions were conducted for all Geokinetics personnel and visitors new

to the crew. The general camp orientation consisted of a general walk through the camp

area and available facilities which included departmental office locations, HSE notice

board and policies, emergency assembly area, laundry, kitchen and mess areas, camp

alarm and fire extinguisher locations.

When a helicopter was brought in for the project the Heli-Muster helicopter pilot gave two

safety inductions regarding helicopter safe approach and movement around the helicopter

as well as safety procedures when on-board.

Geokinetics HSE-MS and Policies

HSE Project Plan and Emergency Response Plan

Muster Points

Hazard Reporting and Assessing Risks

Site Specific Hazards – Top 10

Smoking Areas

PTW and LOTO

Incident Reporting

Medical Resources

Cultural Heritage

Asking for Help

Over the course of the project there were a total of 110 people inducted by Geokinetics.

5.2.2 Green hands

New hires to Geokinetics and the seismic industry are given extra attention upon arriving

to crew in regards to positional training, work procedures and working safely. To help

identify new comers they are issued a green hat or a green high visibility vest to help

identify them as being to crew or to the industry. They are given additional supervision

and mentoring until a period is reached that they have achieved the proper skills to carry

out their duty safe and effectively.

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During the course of the project the QHSE advisor would work with the personnel to

facilitate the understanding of what was needed for the equipment layout, the planting of

geophones and the use of GPS to navigate in the lines. Other training may include work

shop, vibroseis and vehicle operation and procedures. In addition topics about manual

handling, ergonomics, exercises and stretching before and after working hours were

discussed.

5.2.3 Training on the line

Additional training was conducted on the line including first aid and safety basics,

treatment of snakebites and sun/heat exposure. Helicopter Inductions were completed

late in the project for the attending crew members so they would be familiar with helicopter

safety procedures in the event of an emergency. From the above mentioned training a

field response and course of treatment was developed as well as practiced during

medevac drills.

5.3 Risk Management

The Project Risk Assessment and the Hazard Register found in the Project’s HSE Plan

identifies project specific risks and control measures. This was developed prior to the

start-up of the project with Pangaea, Geokinetics and Sub-Contractor personnel in mind.

The Hazard Register is made up in part of generic hazard sheets and references from

both the IAGC and OGP guidelines which are used throughout the seismic industry. It is

also updated considering the Geokinetics Australasia region and site specific hazards that

are identified through the course of planning, scouting, mobilization, contract execution

and demobilization phases of the project.

5.3.1 Risk Assessment

The Geokinetics Risk Assessment Matrix was used to assess all risks on crew. The

severity and consequences indices were used to determine the risk measurement before

and after mitigation measures were employed (e.g. D3 before any control measures were

introduced; C2 after control measures were added).

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Table 23. Geokinetics Risk Assessment Matrix

5.4 Stop cards

Geokinetics uses the DuPont STOP card system as one means to identify, communicate

and control new hazards. This system was very successful and all STOP/GO cards were

discussed daily at the toolbox meetings. This ensured that everyone was aware of new

hazards as they were identified and also advised of what control measures were put in

place to control them.

All STOP/GO cards submitted were documented and added to the Geokinetics HSE

STOP Card Register. If there were any action points arising from the cards, they would be

added to the Action Point List this ensured that all action points were assigned and closed

out.

There were a total of 442 STOP cards submitted during the course of the project. The

need for accurate and timely hazard reporting was reinforced at every opportunity. It was

emphasized to the Crew to report all Unsafe Acts, Unsafe Conditions, Near Misses,

Environmental and GO cards – all of which were relayed to the crew at the next day’s

toolbox meeting. These cards could be anonymous with only the date and department

being required for reporting purposes. The STOP Card reporting system worked

exceptionally well.

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Figure 56. STOP/GO card statistics

5.5 Hazards

5.5.1 Transportation

Given the remote location of the prospect and the number of vehicles that were used, land

transport was our number one hazard. There were no reported road traffic accidents for

the duration of the project.

The vehicles used on the crew included:

8 Toyota Utes

4 Toyota wagons

Isuzu trucks

3 MAN trucks

1 Hino truck

1 Western Star

1 Mack

All vehicles were 4WDs with the exception of the Western Star and Mack trucks. All

vehicles were fitted with seat belts, first aid & snake bite kits, fire extinguishers, rotating

beacons, reverse beepers, Securatrak in Vehicle Monitoring Systems (IVMS), VHF and

UHF radios. The Securatrak IVMS system allows Geokinetics Management to monitor

position, speed, seat belt use, 4WD engagement, engine revolutions, harsh braking and

cornering. The system also has a “duress” button which can be pushed in the time of an

emergency or being lost.

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A full safety inspection was conducted on each vehicle prior to being allocated to the

project in addition to the crew completing a daily vehicle inspection checklist prior to use.

All vehicles were equipped with emergency equipment including extra water container, a

shovel, a fire beater, fire hoe/rake, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, snake bite kit, flashlight,

Geokinetics Emergency Response Plan (ERP), and prospect map. Daily inspections of

the safety equipment was also completed and noted on the vehicle checklist.

The total number of kilometres travelled during the project was 424,434 km.

Figure 57. Base camp car park

5.5.2 Vehicle Maintenance

The driver is responsible to conduct the daily vehicle inspection checklist each morning.

These checklists document deficiencies, vehicle kilometres and driver details. A weekly

mechanical and safety equipment exceptions list is compiled by the Journey Manager and

distributed to the mechanic and HSE departments for resolution. If a deficiency was

deemed to be a safety issue, the vehicle was taken off the road until it was repaired or

safety equipment restored.

Figure 58. Mechanic HOD performing maintenance on vehicle

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Preventative maintenance was conducted by the Mechanics on crew and all vehicles were

given regular servicing per schedule.

5.5.3 Journey management

During the project vehicle tracking was controlled by two systems. The first, Vehicle

Tracking System (VTS) is a passive monitoring system utilizing the GPS installed in the

radios. This system allows verification of vehicle movement in real-time and is viewed on

a computer screen by the radio operator and/or journey manager. The second system is

Securatrak which is an individual key dongle system that records driving variables such as

speed, distance, breaking and acceleration as well as providing a Duress Button. The

Securatrak Duress Button sends an emergency distress alert signal via SMS message to

management if activated in an Emergency or Lost Man event scenario. The system

identifies the vehicle in distress by vehicle number and registration. This data can be

downloaded and collated into driver performance statistics and identify problem areas.

The driver exception report was reviewed with individuals noted in the report as well as at

the Weekly Safety Committee Meeting.

Figure 59. Journey Manager Office

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5.5.4 Helicopters

Heli-Muster was prequalified by the Geokinetics Brisbane office to temporarily provide

helicopter services with the intent to transport personnel to remote areas of the 2D

operation. A helicopter risk assessments was completed with safety procedure and

approach training being provided to the field crew.

Daily checks of the fuel were made to ensure the fuel was free from contaminants. Daily

checks and inspections were also made of the helicopter itself. A single R66 turbine

helicopter was used for a period of five days to assist in the transport of personnel to the

remote sections of the line thus reducing drive times and exposure to hazards. A SAR

(Search and Rescue) time / flight plan was coordinated with the Geokinetics Journey

Manager by the pilot and updated through the course of the day with a log being

generated and kept within the Journey Management office.

The helicopter flew 12 hours and consumed 1080 litres of Jet A-1 fuel during the course of

the 2D project.

Figure 60. R44 helicopter used

5.5.5 Working in heat

One of the top ten hazards was related to working in heat. The hottest temperature

recorded for the project was 42 degrees C. Due to the hot and dry conditions, in particular

toward the latter half of the project the subject of hydration became a regular topic at the

daily toolbox meeting. Management ensured the crew was aware of the importance of

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drinking plenty of water and in addition to supplying Sqwincher, Gatorade and Powerade

supplements to replenish electrolytes. The Paramedic provided additional information and

training on heat stress management and recognition of the common signs / symptoms that

occur.

Each vehicle was outfitted with water containers ranging from a 15 – 40 litre capacity

depending on the type of vehicle and number of crew members it supported. In addition

crew members were provided with smaller 3 litre water containers and personal sport

bottles. During the hottest days some workers would consume up to 9 litres of water per

day. HSE personnel and the Paramedic would make mid-day deliveries of water, ice, cold

fruit and icy-poles to the field and perform regular heat stress assessments of the crew

members.

Figure 61. Heat Stress Assessment by Paramedic

5.5.6 Snakes and Wildlife

Due to the location of the seismic prospect poisonous snakes were a concern and known

to inhabit the region. During the months of August through October is typically the start of

warmer weather and the mating season when snakes become more active. Over the

course of the project several snake sightings occurred in the different camp site locations

as well as on the seismic lines. For this reason increased attention and awareness was

raised at the toolbox meetings and during the crew induction process. In the induction,

emphasis was given on how to avoid contact with snakes and the “do’s and don’ts”

regarding snake bite treatment and course of action regarding the ERP. First aid training

was given to the crew so that all members would know how to attend to a snake bite

victim. Snake bite kits and first aid kits were distributed throughout the crew and were also

standard safety equipment within each vehicle. There was no occurrence of snake bites

during the course of the survey.

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Another concern was the abundance of cattle, wallabies and kangaroos that posed a

threat to transportation on the different stations, primary roads, access tracks and seismic

lines throughout the prospect. The vehicle fleet is outfitted with bull-bars, day time running

lights and restricted to day time only operations to help reduce the exposure to wildlife.

There was one incident involving a Toyota Hilux Ute and a Kangaroo, dented rear door

panel of the vehicle and no injury to the kangaroo.

Figure 62. A snake on track

5.6 Crew Facilities

5.6.1 Base Camp Setup

The camp was a purpose built mobile camp consisting of:

9 x 4 person sleeper caravans

1 x 8 person sleeper caravan

1 x 6 person sleeper caravan for crew accommodation

1 x kitchen unit and 1 x mess unit being conjoined

1 x dry food store

4 x office caravans

1 x trailer housing 2 generators

1 x mechanic workshop

1 x tech shop sharing with the reefer unit.

The camp was designed to be portable and meet expectations that the crews’ ecological

footprint will be minimised at any campsite. Each caravan unit is equipped with air

conditioned with the camp capable of accommodating approximately 50 personnel.

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Communications on the crew was handled by VHF radios in vehicle and hand held units in

the field. Additional communications included the use of UHF Radios and a V-SAT

satellite communication system which allowed the crew to send and receive data and

voice calls. The system allowed base camp to have two land line type numbers so the

base camp can call out on regular type land line telephones and the rest of the world can

call the camp. It is expected that mobile cellular coverage is intermittently available on the

survey allowing some voice and SMS messaging. The Radio Operator or know as

Journey Manager was in place for the duration of the project along with a Crew Paramedic

onsite.

The water used by the camps was supplied from local bores that were known to be safe

for consumption. However the camp was plumbed with a primary filtration system from the

bulk water tanks to the ablution block that supplied the showers, toilets and laundry. An

additional Aquasheild Max water treatment system was installed to provide additional

drinking water for the kitchen and crew. Septic system/shit pits?

Figure 63. Aerial view of Crew 486 Base Camp

5.6.2 Ambulance

There was a Paramedic onsite at all times and while operations were in progress would

accompany the crew and reside in the field most days. Ill and injured persons could be

assessed and treated in the ambulance at location and if necessary follow-up

consultations and treatment could be conducted in the privacy of the HSE dept. office in

camp. There were 148 visits to the paramedic in total over the duration of the project.

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The Paramedic’s Ambulance was a fully equipped 4WD emergency response vehicle. The

Paramedic would familiarise himself with potential patient recovery routes and offer the

shortest response time by remaining in a central location during field activities. The

logistics of where the Paramedic was to be located each day was discussed and agreed

upon with the residing HSE Advisor, Journey Manager and Project Manager. The

ambulance contained a stretcher, oxygen tank, IV bag, a defibrillator and emergency life

support equipment.

Figure 64. Crew 486 paramedic’s ambulance on the line

For the duration of the project the closest hospital was located in the town of Katherine to

the north of the prospect. Distances, routes taken and travel times varied due to the

selection of 5 different camp site locations over the course of the seismic survey.

The crew was also registered with the Royal Flying Doctors Service (RFDS) and kept an

RFDS medical chest in the camp.

5.6.3 Fire Emergency Setup

On the door of each room there was a camp layout showing the muster point,

extinguishers and emergency horns location. The muster point was typically located at the

south eastern end of each campsite utilizing the open area near the car parks. The muster

point location was discussed during the induction presentation and shown during the

camp orientation walk through. Fire extinguishers were strategically located around the

campsite and could be found next to the caravan accommodation block, workshops,

generators, kitchen / mess, offices and refuelling area. Regular drills were held to

familiarize personnel with the fire evacuation procedure and mustering area.

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Within the camp the 13,000 litre water truck was kept full and could be used as a fire

fighting apparatus along with a 1,500 fire tank trailer that was kept with in the campsite.

Both pieces of equipment were regularly tested and used to ensure they were operational

and personnel trained to know how to operate the equipment.

Fire rakes, fire beaters, shovels and 16 litre water sprayer packs were also available for

use in the camp but where typically assigned as standard firefighting equipment and

equipped to the vehicles.

5.6.4 Radio Communications

A radio room was established at the base camp and functioned as the centre for

communications. It was manned for a minimum of 12 hours/day and longer if people were

still out in the field.

The room was equipped with VHF and UHF radios and was connected to a radio tower

that gave coverage over portions of the prospect area. A 12V battery was hooked up to it

so when the generators were turned off for servicing or if a power failure were to occur the

radio would still be operational. Due to distances from base camp to the crew and the

occasional terrain interference, radio communications often times had to be ““relayed”

from one group to another group and then to the base camp radio room.

Vehicles could be tracked using the Securatrak In Vehicle Monitoring System, (IVMS) that

was embedded in the vehicles. The Securatrak system also incorporates a “duress” alarm

button that if activated sends out an SMS message alerting the GPS coordinates of the

vehicle. The Vehicle Tracking System, (VTS) has a chip embedded in the VHF radio and

the ability to send a signal to the radio room every 5 seconds to identify the vehicle

location on the VTS computer tracking screen.

Journey Management was controlled through the radio room with the following information

being logged, the assigned vehicle number or registration, driver’s name, passenger

names, departure and return times.

The radio room also tracked personnel who were in the field and in the camp via an

IN-OUT board.

5.6.5 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

PPE issued to the crew typically consisted of: 3 long sleeve shirts, 2 long pants, hard toe

boots with the inclusion of safety glasses, sun hats, gloves, sunscreen, fly nets, dust

masks, ear plugs or ear muffs and hard hats when applicable. Water bottles and eskies

were made available to individuals and shared with in work groups. Other PPE was issued

to workers performing tasks that required specialized PPE.

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5.7 Drills and Key Performance Indicators (KPI)

5.7.1 Drills

Real time drills were conducted and our KPIs indicated the crew were to do 4 drills per

month which consisted of the following:

1 x Medevac Drill

1 x Spill Drill

1 x Lost Person Drill

1 x Fire Drills

Many lessons were learned from conducting the drills and with any deficiencies being

discovered in the field they were soon addressed to improve the crew’s ability to react to

any incident. A total of 15 drills were conducted during the seismic survey.

5.7.2 HSE KPI

HSE KPI Category Target / Goal Monthly total

Responsible Party Attendees / Reporters

HSE Meetings

Toolbox meeting Daily 31 PM All crew personnel

Safety meetings Weekly 4 PM/HSE PM / HSE / Heads of Dept. (HODs) / Client / Sub contractors

Emergency Preparedness

Medevac drill Within 15 days of start-up & monthly

1 Crew Management All crew personnel

Fire Drill Within 7 days of start-up & monthly

1 Crew Management All crew personnel

Spill Drill Monthly 1 Crew Management All field crew personnel

Lost Man / Vehicle Within 15 days of start-up & Monthly

1 Crew Management. All field crew personnel

Audits / Inspections

Country Management Audits

Annually or as required

Country Manager PM / HSE / Dept. Heads

Health & Hygiene Inspections

Weekly 4 Crew Paramedic Crew Paramedic / HSE

Client Rep. Audits As required

Client Reps. Client

Cross Inspections (not including HSE dept.)

1 section per fortnight 12 HODs HOD / Department reps

Incident Reporting

Hazard Reports ( STOP cards )

1 per week per section

20 HOD All crew personnel

Table 24. Key Performance Indicators

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5.8 HSE Management

The HSE-MS on this project was derived from the OGP nine point models and our

Corporate HSE Management System. A specific HSE Plan was written for the Pangaea

Hidden Valley 2D Seismic Survey. The HSE Plan was developed with input from the crew

management for all HSE documentation, hazards, risks and emergency response plans.

The project specific HSE Plan was signed off by the Geokinetics Country Manager,

Project Manager and Senior Crew Management

It contains the following Crew HSE information:

Quality Monthly Reports

Action Point List (APL)

Incident Reports

Emergency Plans

HSE Crew Plan

Monthly Reports

Daily Reports

Training Matrix

Weekly HSE Meetings

Travel Guidelines

Inspections

Fitness Statement

Subcontractor Evaluations

Drills

Environment Documents

Legal Compliance

Crew Pictures

The reporting system follows the recognised International Association of Geophysical

Contractors (IAGC) format which has been produced by a team of expert safety

consultants.

5.8.1 HSE Management Process

Crew safety is a driven from a ‘top-down’ approach – from the Geokinetics CEO to the

Country Manager, down to the Project Manager, through to the Senior Crew Managers

and finally to the individual workers.

The Safe Work System refers to the identification of, assessment of, controlling of, and

recovery from hazards. These steps are absolutely essential to the safe working of every

crew and every incident is in effect a failure in the process. The risks that hazards

presented were managed on this crew by sound policies, good procedures, good work

instructions and systematic planning, implementation and monitoring activities

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5.8.2 Safe Work Procedures

The HSE Plan covers all relevant work procedures for this crew. Many new work

procedures for the crew had to be developed to ensure safe operations. Work procedures

were developed based upon identifying hazards, assessing the risk and placing controls in

place to ensure a safe system of work was put into place. Sub-contractor work procedures

had to reviewed for suitability and ensure their work interfaced well with Geokinetics work.

5.9 HSE Communication

HSE Policies, Corp, Regional, Country and Crew Organograms, Safety Alerts, Emergency

Drill reports, various meeting minutes, crew rosters and general issues were posted on

the HSE notice board situated with one inside and one outside of the mess hall caravan.

Formal communications were completed at operations meetings, weekly safety meetings,

toolbox talks, risk assessment meetings and through the use of Geokinetics email and

SharePoint sites. Employees were encouraged to share their ideas for improvements with

management making considerations and implementing many of the suggestions.

Figure 65. HSE Notice Board

5.9.1 Toolbox Meetings

A total of 177 toolbox meetings were held and were an effective way to pass and receive

information both to and from the crew and managers. Each morning before the start of

field operations a general toolbox meeting was held with all crew members in attendance

to discuss any safety concerns from the previous day. STOP and GO cards were

reviewed and discussed along with operational information exchanged regarding the day’s

activities.

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There was good participation from the crew during these meetings which allowed for open

discussion on related safety points and any suggestions for improvements. A random

crew member was selected each day to speak on a safety related topic the following day

to ensure the crew was actively participating in the meetings.

5.9.2 Action Point List (APL)

The crew developed and maintained an accurate and well managed APL. The HSE

Advisors on the crew were the custodian of this document. The APL was reviewed at

every weekly safety meeting. Each action point was given a timeframe to be completed

and action party nominated. Throughout the course of the Project there was a total of 92

action points added, with 84 of those being closed out.

The items that generated the Action Point List were raised from several sources – which

included audits, inspections, STOP Cards, observations, drills, and findings from near

miss and incident / accident investigations.

Figure 66. Action Point List statistics

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5.10 Emergency Response Plan (ERP)

The project specific ERP was developed during the planning stages and implemented

prior to mobilisation to site. Rigorous reviews ensured all elements were accurate and

tested prior to deploying personnel to the field. Key parts of the ERP were placed in all

field vehicles and mobile plant. Complete copies were strategically placed at key locations

to ensure immediate response to emergency could be undertaken. The plan was tested

several times while conducting drills both in camp and the field. Emergency

responsibilities are clearly defined in section 3.3 of the ERP.

5.11 Environment

5.11.1 Environment Impact Minimisation

Throughout the duration of the project, every effort was made to minimise wherever

possible all seismic survey footprints from the prospect area. Some of the strategies used

were:

Using main roads, tracks, and existing fence lines or vehicle traffic.

Minimal line preparation, not removing mature trees but going around

trees.

Reviewing each line to ensure any stake, flag, rubbish or equipment was

not left on the line.

Walking in with equipment on seismic lines so as not to disturb other areas.

Minimizing emissions by keeping motorized equipment maintained.

Minimizing sound by having equipment with proper mufflers.

Not disturbing water course routes so as not to start erosion problems.

Clearing and uncompacting the soil around the camp area so plants can

regenerate

Not harassing any wildlife.

Driving with care through the prospect area so as not hit any wild animals

or farm stock.

5.11.2 Waste Management

All the waste was disposed of as according to the HSE Plan. Waste was reused where

possible. Items that could be recycled were sent to Katherine Town Council waste facility.

General domestic Non-Hazardous waste was handled on crew and disposed of locally at

“Tip” sites in the communities of Mataranka, Larrimah and Daly Waters. Hazardous waste

such as waste oil, oily rags, batteries, tyres etc. were taken to the Katherine Town Council

waste facility for proper disposal and disposition. A waste manifest was recorded by the

Geokinetics Journey Manager as well as receipts acquired from the Katherine Town

Council waste facility.

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Figure 67. Emergency Response Flow Chart

HSE Advisors

Jake Rickaby

0498 638 029

Teariki Charlie

0467 360 432

HSE Plus Paramedic

0147 180 467

Geokinetics

Project Manager

V-Sat #

08 6555 1685

OR Sat Phone #

+870 776 499 050

Tristan Murray

0419 364 971

Don Honan

0417 074 370

Steven Bates

0427 604 015

Pangaea

Client Field Representative

Sam Coniglio

0428 281 044

(02) 9086 2748 (camp)

Sat Phone # 0147 147 086

IN FIELD FIRST AIDER RESPONSE

Assess Incident

Apply First Aid

Notify Designated Journey Mgr. by radio Channel 1 or satellite phone

Dave Thomas Ops Manager

0402 085 289

Dave Stegemann Regional Ops

Manager

0422 444 052

Greg Dunlop Country Manager

0418 758 114

Are informed and will pass information

to corporate, client and relatives as

required.

Pangaea

Corporate HSE Representative

Tim Radburn

0402 284 077

Pangaea- Chief Geophysicist

Mike Longergan

0448 080 177

Pangaea Operations Director

Lan Nguyen

0448 199 942

Priority communication channels

INCIDENT In The Field

JM activates Paramedic

Katherine District Hospital

(08) 8973 9211

(approx. 3 hours away on bitumen

road)

Call Emergency Services (dial 08

8922 8888) and report situation.

They will mobilise a plane to

Victoria River Downs (VRD) airstrip

if necessary/available. If

Emergency Services air support is

unavailable, patient to be

transported by ambulance to the

Katherine Hospital.

Serious cases

Media

response

Minor cases

Relative

response

Pangaea – Seismic

Project Manager

Danny Hannay

0417 072 348

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6 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATION

The project took over 6 months in planning and 5 months of implementation and

operations to complete. A great deal of experience was gained by the end of the project.

Lessons were learned that can be applied to future projects of a similar nature. Many

experienced workers previously employed by Geokinetics joined the project and proved to

be efficient in technique and well versed in the established work procedures. Minimal time

was required to set up a good work flow and establish a healthy safety culture on crew.

Sub-contractors were prequalified and hired to handle catering, helicopter operations and

any medical response. Reviews and risk assessments were made of the other various

operations to insure that the workers were competent in their assigned tasks.

Seismic data quality of the 2013 Hidden Valley 2D seismic data was very good to

excellent. Field brute stacks of the acquired 2D seismic data clearly show continuous and

coherent reflectors at the project’s target two way travel time windows. The project could

be one of the challenging onshore seismic exploration programs in industry standard.

Operationally, high bush, pipeline, rail track, rugged terrain, limited access and work

permits in some properties were all congregated within the seismic 2D grid. From the

Geophysical point of view, the challenges were seismic noise generated by traffic,

pipeline, water bores and bad weather. In addition, some designed source and receiver

points were inside tough zones such as river and rail track corridors that required

additional field efforts. Despite these categorical challenges, Geokinetics, Pangaea and all

associated subcontractors successfully managed to achieve a high standard seismic data

with no lost time incidents during the course of the project. Environmental impact of the

seismic operation was minimal to almost nil throughout the operation site. Hidden Valley

2D seismic operation model was highly effective; it is always recommended to

commission a highly experienced Crew supported by adequate tools and utilities in order

to achieve the highest possible outcomes.

Crew 486 had an admirable health safety and environmental record throughout the

project. This was brought about through selecting the right people, equipping and training

them to do the job in a safe and environmentally sensitive manner, and monitoring their

performance.

Implementation of Geokinetics Quality Management System (QMS) on Crew 486 enabled

management to monitor the progress of the operation. This system was also used by the

crew to highlight issues affecting the general quality related to the seismic survey.

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Digital Appendices

6.1 Appendix A: HV2D Survey Control Network Map

6.2 Appendix B: HV2D Survey Control Points Description

6.3 Appendix C: HV2D Preplot Prospect Map

6.4 Appendix D: HV2D Final Survey Map

6.5 Appendix E: HV2D Pastoral Holdings Map

6.6 Appendix F: HV2D Weed Map

6.7 Appendix G: HV2D End of Project Hardware Test

6.8 Appendix H: HV2D Seismic Survey - Startup Report

6.9 Appendix I: HV2D Recording Parameters

6.10 Appendix J: HV2D Daily Report Sample

6.11 Appendix K: HV2D Final SPS

6.12 Appendix L: HV2D Data Shipment Transmittals