The IMO developed a Gas Bulletin Board (GBB) in response to the frustration experienced by the gas industry and gas consumers over the allocation of natural gas, immediately after the Varanus Island explosion which disrupted 30% of the state’s gas supply. During this period, the GBB provided a platform for Western Australia’s gas industry to facilitate the contracting of natural gas between buyers and sellers.

The Electricity Industry (Independent Market Operator) Regulations 2004 were amended on Friday 27 June 2008 to allow the IMO to operate the GBB.

A Services Agreement for the Gas Bulletin Board was executed with the Office of Energy on Monday 30 June 2008.  The GBB commenced operation on Thursday 3 July 2008. Services were provided by the IMO on a cost recovery basis.  

As a result of the partial resumption of natural gas supplies from Varanus Island, and no gas being offered for sale on the GBB since the 29 August 2008, the IMO recommended to the Office of Energy that the GBB be closed down.  This recommendation was accepted and the GBB ceased operation on Monday 13 October 2008.

The final GBB operation report can be found here.