Why is the completion of the Barberton 3D seismic survey important for MNE shareholders?

The survey provides high-resolution imaging of the Yarra and Gadee gas leads, which were previously only identified via lower-resolution 2D data in 2022. This detailed subsurface understanding is critical for de-risking future drilling targets within the Yarragadee formation.

What specific assets is Macallum New Energy (ASX:MNE) targeting with this data?

The company is targeting two prospective Jurassic gas leads named Yarra and Gadee, located at depths of approximately 2,500m. These leads are conventional reservoirs, which generally offer more straightforward extraction profiles compared to unconventional sources.

How did Macallum New Energy reduce environmental risks during this survey?

MNE utilized "GeoPulse" low-impact seismic sources, the first time this technology has been deployed in Western Australia. These vehicles are smaller and lighter than standard vibroseis trucks, allowing for data collection in restricted areas without clearing vegetation.

Does Macallum New Energy (ASX:MNE) have full ownership of this project?

Yes, Macallum New Energy holds a 100% interest in the exploration permit EP-494 where the Barberton survey took place. Maintaining full ownership means the company retains 100% of the potential upside from any discovery without having to share profits with joint venture partners.

What was the financial and operational performance of the Barberton survey?

The survey was completed both on schedule and within the designated budget, which is a positive signal regarding management's project execution capabilities. For retail investors, staying within budget is a key metric for small-cap explorers to avoid unexpected capital raisings or share dilution.

Macallum New Energy completes Barberton seismic survey

Q: What did Macallum New Energy (ASX:MNE) recently achieve in the North Perth Basin?

Macallum New Energy successfully completed the Barberton 3D seismic survey within its 100%-owned exploration permit EP-494 in Western Australia. The program covered 110 $km^2$ and was delivered on schedule and within budget by contractor Terrex.

Written by Heidi Cuthbert Published May. 6 2026Last Updated May. 6 2026

Macallum New Energy (ASX:MNE) has completed the Barberton 3D seismic survey, marking a milestone for its 100%-owned exploration permit EP-494 in Western Australia’s onshore North Perth Basin.

The programme, which covered 110km2 of new seismic data, was delivered on schedule and within budget by contractor Terrex.

The initiative specifically targeted two prospective Jurassic gas leads, known as Yarra and Gadee, which are situated at a depth of approximately 2,500m within the Yarragadee formation.

By utilising high-resolution 3D imaging, the company aims to gain a more detailed subsurface understanding of these conventional reservoirs, which were originally identified during a 2D seismic campaign in 2022.

A notable aspect of the Barberton survey was the first-ever deployment of GeoPulse low-impact seismic sources in Western Australia.

The advanced source vehicles are significantly smaller and lighter than traditional vibroseis trucks, allowing for data acquisition in restricted areas without the need for extensive vegetation clearing.

The innovative approach has been described as a "gamechanger" for the industry, as it drastically reduces the environmental footprint and eliminates the need for ground rehabilitation requests from local landowners.

Macallum New Energy is now preparing to commence the Condor 2D seismic survey as part of its continued data-driven exploration strategy in the region.