The next thing you know old Jed’s a millionaire

Time is running out for the next Jed Clampett to make his mark and his millions in petroleum.

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson has issued a reminder to petroleum explorers to get their applications in for the 2008 Petroleum Call for Tender.

Minister Wilson said 21 areas, covering more than 100,000 square kilometres, were being opened up for petroleum exploration.

“The northern Galilee and Eromanga Basins in Central Queensland have the lion’s share with 18 areas opened up for petroleum exploration,” Mr Wilson said.

“They’re relatively untapped and unexplored. There’s exciting potential for discoveries of conventional petroleum and coal seam gas,” he said.

Three small areas in the Bowen and Surat Basins are also included in the tenders.

Mr Wilson said two separate Calls for Tender would make it easier for potential explorers to navigate the native title process.

“Fourteen areas can go ahead without a native title process. The other seven areas will require a native title process.

The 2008 Petroleum Call for Tender closes at 4.30pm on Monday, 4 August 2008.

More information on the petroleum land release is available at: www.dme.qld.gov.au

Media Inquiries: Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819