Coal and petroleum projects

• Coal seam gas (CSG) is becoming a significant energy source in Queensland and plans are to improve the geological understanding of CSG distribution and related hydrology.
• The petroleum prospects of frontier basins will be analysed to attract new explorers to the state, particularly in the carbonate basins. A structural interpretation of the Adavale Basin is underway.
• The Bowen Basin studies include a revised geological map, resource assessment and improved exploration techniques.
• Identification of potential hot dry rock prospects.
• Development of a coal exploration database.

As part of the Smart Mining - Future Prosperity Program, a gravity survey was carried out over the Cooper Basin, yielding 9170 stations at 4x4 kilometre spacing over an area of 146 678km². The survey was released on 8th February 2008 and is incorporated in the National Gravity database accessible in the Geoscience Australia GADDS system. It can also be purchased from the Department of Mines and Energy on CD for 'cost of provision'.

Improved gravity survey coverage of the area improves the understanding of the geology and structure, allows development of 3D models, and may provide indirect exploration targeting. New data assists explorers to define new prospective areas.

For more information contact:

John Draper
Telephone: +61 7 3362 9340

or
Geological Survey of Queensland
Block A 80 Meiers Road Indooroopilly Qld 4068
or
The Geological information hotline
+61 7 3006 4666 (9.00am to 4.00pm EST working days)
or
email Geological Information Hotline