Chevron Corporation announced a natural gas discovery by its Australian subsidiary in the Greater Gorgon Area of the Carnarvon Basin, offshore Western Australia.

The Pontus-1 exploration well encountered approximately 97 feet (30 metres) of net gas pay. The well is located in the WA-37-L permit area in the Greater Gorgon Area gas fields, approximately 40 miles (65 kilometres) northwest of Barrow Island. The well was drilled in 690 feet (210 metres) of water to a total depth of 16,581 feet (5,054 metres).

George Kirkland, vice chairman, Chevron Corporation, said, "The Pontus-1 discovery again highlights Chevron's exploration success as we continue building a significant natural gas position in Western Australia to supply Australia and the Asia-Pacific region."

Melody Meyer, president, Chevron Asia Pacific Exploration and Production Company, said, "This discovery represents our fourteenth discovery offshore north-western Australia since 2009 and will support potential future expansion opportunities for the Gorgon Project."

Chevron Australia is the operator of WA-37-L and holds a 47.3% interest in the permit. Exxon Mobil and Shell Development Australia both hold 25%, Osaka Gas holds 1.25%, Tokyo Gas holds 1% and Chubu Electric Power holds approximately 0.42%.