60 | A driving force in drilling Founded in 1962 by Bill Washington, the company has grown from a single rig operation to a multinational enterprise with 26 rigs and offices spanning New Zealand, Australia, and Papua New Guinea. Washingtons Exploration T T Karen Phelps REGIONAl DEVELOPMENT For over six decades Timaru based Washingtons Exploration has been at the forefront of drilling innovation and expertise in the South Pacific region. Founded in 1962 by Bill Washington, the company has grown from a single rig operation to a multinational enterprise with 26 rigs and offices spanning New Zealand, Australia, and Papua New Guinea. The company’s growth trajectory has been nothing short of impressive with its services now encompassing a wide range of drilling techniques including reverse circulation, sonic drilling, diamond coring and air core drilling, among others. Bill, a life member and one of the founders of the New Zealand Drilling Federation, laid the groundwork for the company’s success. Under his leadership, Washingtons became one of the first companies in New Zealand to import large diameter rigs and rotary table rigs, as well as the first to bring in a Dual Rotary (DR) Foremost rig. Currently at the helm is Steve Pilcher, whose drilling career began in 1978. With extensive experience across New Zealand, Australia, Papua New Guinea, and even Antarctica, he brings a wealth of knowledge to the company. His expertise spans oilfield operations, coring, water bores, reverse circulation, and site investigation. Shane Dale, who joined the company in 2009, serves as the manager of Washington’s Exploration Ltd. With a background in the contracting industry since 1994, Shane oversees contract administration, project management, logistics, quality control, and health and safety protocols. Washingtons Exploration prides itself on its commitment to safety and practical, competitive solutions. The company’s transparent working relationship with clients from project inception to completion has helped it develop a vast client base throughout the South Pacific. The company’s services are diverse, catering to a wide range of industries. From coal bed methane production and RC gold and coal sampling to geothermal projects and diamond coring, Washingtons Exploration has the expertise and equipment to handle complex drilling operations. In addition to its drilling services, the company offers equipment hire, including excavators, high-pressure air compressors, boosters, and pumps. This specialised equipment is available for use nationwide from branches in Timaru, Invercargill, and Alexandra. As part of its international expansion, Washingtons International was formed to focus on exploration resources and water bores outside New Zealand’s borders. With its rich history, experienced leadership and commitment to innovation, Washingtons Exploration continues to be a driving force in the drilling industry across the South Pacific region and beyond. Call 0800 800 108 or 03 683 9060 or see www.fireandsafetytraining.co.nz 30 Holmglen St, Washdyke, Timaru email: admin@fastltd.co.nz Fire & Safety Training Courses include: Fire Extinguisher Training / Fire Warden Training Breathing Apparatus Training / Confined Space & Gas Detection Training First Aid in the Workplace Training / Working at Height Training Permit to work & Haz ID / Elevated Work platforms Unit standard based NZQA approved Training Courses FIRE EXTINQUISHER SERVICES 0800 347 392 Fire Equipment Sales & Service Fire Suppression Systems Fire Extinguisher Training Marine • Industrial Commercial • Domestic Rural Insurance Approved Supplier Locally Owned & Operated - IQP Registered • FPA Member Firewatch South Canterbury Ltd www.firewatch.co.nz
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