Dr Colin Phipps, founding Chairman of Desire Petroleum plc, former Chairman of Falklands Conservation and former Member of Parliament, Westminster, died peacefully in hospital, with his family in attendance on Saturday night 10 January 2009.
Dr Phipps’ long distinguished career culminated in being a founder member of Desire Petroleum in 1996
His determination ensured that Desire participated in the first round of drilling in the North Falkland Basin in 1998. Due to his continuing dedication Desire now operates 6 licences in the area, Tranches C, D, F, I, L and the recently awarded PL034.
Dr Phipps instinctively knew that the North Falkland Basin had a proven working hydrocarbon system with an excellent oil source rock. In addition, recent studies have indicated there is also a significant gas potential in the basin – an added bonus for acting on his exhaustive knowledge of the business.
He oversaw detailed exploration for oil and gas prospects that had been identified with a mid-estimate, un-risked recoverable oil potential exceeding 3.5 billion barrels and gas over 9 trillion cubic feet.
Always keen to share his expertise, Dr Phipps often was the “squeaky wheel” when it came to FINN’s hydrocarbons reporting. He was a personal friend and will be sadly missed.
J. Brock (FINN)
