Advances in Drilling Technologies
Presented by: Matt Hansen: Managing Director, Legion Drilling
Produced by: IAH NSW
Date: Tuesday 14 April 2026
Time: 17:30 for an 18:00 start
Where: WSP Office – Level 27
Online: To be provided closer to the date
Abstract
Drilling practices are changing quickly as new technologies, stricter compliance requirements, and workforce pressures continue to affect how projects are delivered. This presentation provides a practical overview of the latest developments influencing drilling operations, with a focus on what they mean for hydrogeologists and project teams.
It covers the fundamentals and applications of sonic drilling, alongside advances in automation on modern rigs such as automated rod handling, remote operation, and AI controlled drilling. The role of real-time data feedback is also explored, showing how improved visibility of subsurface conditions is supporting better decision-making on site.
The session also touches on emerging areas such as AI in drilling operations, while recognising current limitations, maintenance demands, and the increasing complexity of equipment. Regulatory requirements, including Australian drillers’ licensing and evolving expectations on Tier 1 mine sites, are discussed in the context of compliance and market segmentation.
The session concludes with practical takeaways for hydrogeologists, particularly in relation to drilling strategy, execution risks, and data quality.
Bio
Matt Hansen is the Managing Director of Legion Drilling, where he focuses on practical, more sustainable ways of drilling that reduce investigation-derived waste (IDW) without compromising data quality. He’s been a licensed water well driller for over 20 years and has been working with sonic drilling since 2013. His experience covers a wide range of projects including groundwater investigations, municipal water supply, monitoring wells, mining, defence, and infrastructure.
Matt has always been focused on doing things better on site, not just faster. Legion has built a strong reputation in environmental, geotechnical, and groundwater drilling services by using technologies like sonic rigs, direct sensing systems, and in-situ remediation methods.
Legion was the first in Australia to use UVOST and MIHPT for high-resolution site investigation, and more recently has been working with high-pressure injection of carbon-based materials for in-situ remediation.
