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May 15, 2026

Beneath the surface: unlocking the Adavale Basin in south-central Queensland with stratigraphic drilling and integrated geoscience datasets

Puntos clave

The study aims to enhance understanding of the Adavale Basin’s subsurface geology through integrated geoscience data.
Acquired precompetitive geoscience data via Data Driven Discoveries Program and Resourcing Australia’s Prosperity initiative.
Conducted stratigraphic drilling at GA Enniskillen 1, reaching 3023 m depth, collecting rock chips, core samples, and groundwater.
Integrated new seismic imaging and airborne geophysics with existing legacy data for comprehensive analysis.
Initial findings indicate salt deposits are located near faulted margins instead of typical basin depocentres, challenging existing models.
Enhanced mapping activities provided better insights into aquifers and structural features in the basin.
The study emphasizes the necessity for tailored exploration strategies in structurally complex geological settings.

Resumen

Geoscience Australia, through the Data Driven Discoveries Program and Resourcing Australia’s Prosperity initiative, has acquired precompetitive geoscience data to enhance understanding of the Adavale Basin’s subsurface geology. These initiatives have integrated deep drilling, new seismic imaging and airborne geophysics with legacy data and information into a comprehensive, multi-scale dataset. In November 2025, the program completed the Adavale Basin stratigraphic drilling project, with the deep stratigraphic borehole, GA Enniskillen 1, reaching a total depth of 3023 m. GA Enniskillen 1 penetrated the Eromanga, Galilee and Adavale basins and collected rock chips, 976 m of continuous core and groundwater samples. These data contribute to refining stratigraphic and depositional models and improving insights into hydrogeological connectivity. A new deep-crustal seismic survey, integrated with reprocessed legacy data, refines basin architecture and structural complexity, while new airborne electromagnetic and gravity gradiometry datasets enhance mapping of aquifers, evaporites and structural features. Initial findings reveal salt deposits localised near faulted margins rather than basin depocentres, challenging conventional halite models and highlighting the variable character of Australian salt systems. This work underscores the need for tailored strategies in structurally complex basins and shows how integrated geoscience reduces risk for resource exploration.

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