MINING GEOLOGY –
The geology of New South Wales (NSW) is heavily influenced by the work of Gordon H. Packham, particularly in the foundational 1969 text The Geology of New South Wales and the later Field Geology of New South Wales (co-authored with David Branagan). The region is defined by its complex, multi-stage evolution, divided into major geological provinces such as the Lachlan Fold Belt, New England Fold Belt, and several major basins, including the Sydney-Gunnedah Basin.
- Key Publications: Packham edited the seminal 1969 volume (Journal of the Geological Society of Australia, v. 16, pt. 1), covering the state’s stratigraphic history. The 2000 edition of Field Geology of New South Wales provides updated field-based insights, highlighting 8 major geological provinces. [1, 2, 3]
- Structural Provinces: Packham’s work outlines the progression from older western areas to younger eastern regions, including the Adelaide Fold Belt, Kanmantoo Fold Belt, and Lachlan Fold Belt (hosting porphyry Cu-Au deposits).
- Sydney Basin Geology: The Sydney Basin (highlighted in, e.g.,) was developed during the Permian with subsequent Mesozoic sedimentation, comprising the Narrabeen Group, Hawkesbury Sandstone, and Wianamatta Group.
- Regional Studies: The framework covers complex tectonic interactions that formed mineral-rich metamorphic rocks, sedimentary basins, and igneous intrusions.