Bravus Mining groundwater research celebrated internationally

Years of scientific work to better understand ancient springs in outback Queensland has paid off for local researchers who will take their findings to the world stage at a prestigious conference in Davos, Switzerland.

Dr Richard Cresswell and Anne Gibson from Eco Logical Australia will present at the upcoming International Association of Hydrogeologists World Groundwater Congress in September.

The research focuses on the Doongmabulla Springs Complex, which lies more than 11km away from Bravus Mining and Resources Carmichael mine near Clermont in Central Queensland.

Dr Cresswell and Ms Gibson used multiple scientific techniques and approaches including field trips, zonation studies, seed bank germination and satellites and drones to study the ecosystems that rely on the springs and ensure open cut mining can continue to be carried out without harming the area.

Their findings also highlighted the effects of cattle grazing and feral pigs on the springs.

Bravus Mining and Resources chief operating officer Mick Crowe says the invitation to present at the prestigious conference showed the quality of the research undertaken as part of the regulatory requirements for the mine.

“Queensland’s mining industry is world class and part of that is our commitment to using the results of scientific studies like these to inform our operations and ensure we are mining responsibly,” he said.

“The fact the springs have been subject to this level of scientific study can give Queenslanders the confidence that the checks and balances in place to protect the environment are working.”