Water in the Desert and the Great Artesian Basin

Historical Significance

• Early Inhabitants: Permanent access to fresh water was crucial for survival.
• Sacred Systems: Natural springs were sacred to many.
• Water Journey: Rainfall from two million years ago is still surfacing through springs today.

The Great Artesian Basin (GAB)

• Formation:
  • Originated from a natural dip formed 250 million years ago.
  • Gondwana break-up and tectonic shifts led to its formation.
  • Clay and silt deposits created impermeable stone layers.
  • Sand carried by rivers formed sandstone aquifers.
• Structure:
  • Impermeable layers act as plugs; sandstone layers as aquifers.
  • Stretches across a quarter of Australia.
  • Holds about 65,000 million megalitres of water.

Importance of the GAB

• Ecosystems:
  • Springs support unique plant and animal species.
  • Springs maintain local creeks and rivers.
• Indigenous Use:
  • Springs provided water, food, and materials.
  • Served as spiritual centers and survival hubs.

European Discovery and Exploration

• Explorers:
  • John Oxley and Charles Sturt were early explorers.
  • Misconceptions about a hidden inland sea.
  • In 1878, bore drilling began, revolutionizing water access.

Bore Drilling and Development

• Early Drilling:
  • Labor-intensive and dangerous.
  • Shallow bores provided fresh water, changing inland life.
• Industries:
  • Supported agriculture, mining, transportation.
  • Boosted wool production and mining.
• Tourism:
  • Mineral baths and unique landscapes attract tourists.

Conservation and Challenges

• Over-Exploitation: Open bore channels led to water wastage.
• Environmental Impact: Drying bores affect ecosystems and indigenous species.

Solutions and Management

• Capping and Piping:
  • Reduces water wastage.
  • Helps maintain pressure in the basin.
• Government and Community Cooperation:
  • Funding and initiatives to protect the basin.
  • Collaboration across states and communities.

Future Prospects

• Emerging Industries: Opportunities in power generation and mining.
• Sustainability Initiatives: Ongoing efforts to involve all stakeholders.

Conclusion

• The GAB is crucial for life and industry across Australia.
• Responsible management and conservation are key to its sustainability.