Ashurst has advised Jemena on its A$392 million acquisition of the Darling Downs Pipeline from Origin Energy, which links the Wallumbilla Gas Hub with the Talinga Gas Plant and Origin Energy's Darling Downs Power Station.

The transaction involved Jemena acquiring 100% of the shares from three Origin Energy companies that hold licenses for the Darling Downs Pipeline, which are the Oil Company of Australia (Moura) Transmissions Pty Ltd, Origin Energy Walloons Transmissions Pty Ltd and Origin Energy Wallumbilla Transmissions Pty Ltd.

The acquisition represents a significant expansion of Jemena's gas transmission capability in Queensland, including complimenting its existing ownership and operation of the Queensland Gas Pipeline and the development of the Northern Gas Pipeline from Mt Isa to Tennant Creek.

Lead partner on the deal Paul Newman (Utilities) said: "We are delighted to have advised Jemena in relation to this significant acquisition, which will further enhance its position as a leading participant in Australian energy markets. We are particularly proud to assist with building Jemena's portfolio of gas transmission infrastructure in Queensland, as the Darling Downs Pipeline represents a natural extension of its existing business."

Paul was assisted by partner Tanya Denning, counsel Teresa Scott and lawyers Tim Rankin and Tristan Shepherd (Utilities); partner Murray Wheater and senior associates Samantha Robson, Alexander McCall, Matt Hartsuyker and Jennifer Ingram and lawyer Alexander Kedzior (Corporate); partner Damian Salsbury and senior associate Kellie Hairsine (Real Estate); partner John Briggs and senior associate Paul Wilson (Environment); partner Gavin Scott (Native Title); counsel Justin Jones (Competition); counsel Lucy Bretherton (Resources); associate Peter Allen and lawyer Anthony Pitruzzello (Banking); with partner Vince Rogers, counsel Brett Elgar and senior associate Patrick Lawler (Employment).