Latest geoscience on show for mining industry

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson was on hand to showcase the latest in mining technology at the Digging Deeper conference in Brisbane today.

Mr Wilson said the annual seminar was popular with junior explorers and the scientific community and the number of participants has increased each year.

“This ‘show and tell’ brings everyone up-to-date with the work being carried out by the Geological Survey of Queensland (GSQ), along with its collaborative partners Geoscience Australia and the CSIRO,” he said.

“During 2008, GSQ conducted surveys over regions of major mineral deposits in Queensland, producing new data using better mapping techniques.

“GSQ geoscientists will use the Digging Deeper conference to showcase the results of their most recent surveys using the latest technology including airborne geophysics, seismic and hyperspectral surveys.

“They will be releasing the interpretation of the Stage Two airborne hyperspectral data over selected areas of north-west and north Queensland, and interpreting the deep seismic reflection surveys which confirmed the existence of the untested Millungera Basin.

“This is Q2 at its smartest,” Mr Wilson said.

“Seminars like this are a chance for explorers to meet with the geologists who are out in the field producing the information that is vital to the future of the mineral and energy industry.

“Participants not only see first hand what has been done and how, but what they can expect to see in the future as the Bligh Government continues to assist industry move towards potential mineral discoveries and a clean energy future,” he said.

Media contact: Simon Hamill 3224 7332