Hydrogeology of the SouthEast Queensland volcanics – insights from collaborative groundwater monitoring at Springbrook.
Presented by: Lucy Reading (Queensland University of Technology)
Produced by: IAH NSW
Date: Tuesday 03 September 2024
Time: 17:30 for an 18:00 start
Where: Ballina Beach Resort Function Centre
Online: Teams link
Abstract
At Springbrook, in the Gold Coast hinterland, Queensland, there is an urgent need to make water management decisions regarding the extraction of groundwater from basaltic aquifers for bottling at sites directly adjacent to a UNESCO World Heritage Listed rainforest. Yet, there is very minimal available monitoring data that can be used to assess the potential impacts of these extractions. Therefore, the local council, City of Gold Coast, have provided funding for a groundwater monitoring network to be set up at Springbrook to allow the Queensland University of Technology to collect baseline data and develop conceptual models of the system. We have been using core logging, geochemical tracers and water level monitoring assess groundwater storage and recharge at Springbrook. We have also been investigating interactions between the volcanic rock aquifers, the local creeks and deep-rooted trees. Over the next 12 months, we hope to set up a Critical Zone Observatory at Springbrook and develop visualisation tools to assist with community engagement and science to policy translation.
Bio
Associate Professor Lucy Reading is a groundwater scientist. She has a background in chemistry and expertise in water monitoring and modelling. Lucy completed a PhD in the School of Environmental Engineering at The University of Queensland in 2010. Lucy’s employment history includes laboratory, government and research roles. Since commencing an academic role at the Queensland University of Technology in 2015, Lucy has led research into contaminant transport in the Great Barrier Reef catchments in North Queensland. She is currently working with local councils and the Queensland Government to set up water monitoring networks in the Gold Coast Hinterland. Lucy’s research projects contribute to water resource management by informing current and emerging government water policy. Lucy is passionate about collaborating with communities and creating opportunities for students to gain experience, develop networks and build their careers.
