Stratigraphic results of diamond drilling of the Hunterston Dome, Tasmania: implications for palaeogeography and hydrocarbon potential

Abstract

The stratigraphy encountered in the Hunterston DDH included the Cascades Group, freshwater Liffey Group and Bundella Mudstone as expected. The basal conglomerates and absence of Woody Island Siltstone, and tillite, proved the extension of the regional high to the northwest through this central part of the Tasmania Basin. Dolerite intrusion has mobilised carbonate, and reduced reservoir quality within the Liffey Group, however direct heating effects are not seen. Therefore measured vitrinite reflectances within the Liffey Group show background maturity of organic matter. From this it can be concluded that the central Tasmania Basin is mature for hydrocarbons. The basemnt in the area is similar to the Black River Dolomite.