- 130 years since the inception of the Geological Survey of Western Australia (GSWA)
- GSWA maps the State's geology and has produced more than 12,000 publications
The McGowan Government is pleased to announce that 2018 marks the 130th anniversary of the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety's Geological Survey of Western Australia.
Since 1888, the GSWA has become an internationally respected institution and produced robust interpretations of our State's tectonic setting, crustal architecture and geological evolution.
The GSWA has remained faithful to its dual objectives of conducting proactive, field-based research and providing solid, unbiased geoscientific advice to government, industry and the public.
Mapping of Western Australia began in the 19th century, although the tools of the trade have evolved from pencils, compasses and theodolites to sophisticated GPS tracking and capturing information digitally in the field.
GSWA also manages the Perth and Kalgoorlie core libraries, where drill cores are preserved as an invaluable resource held in perpetuity for the exploration industry.
Digital delivery is essential for GSWA's data and information products today, and includes leading products such as drill hole core atlases, 3D models and digital geological packages.
As noted by Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston:
"Technology has come a long way since the inception of GSWA when geologists explored WA on horseback and camels.
"Today, men and women in the field have the advantage of amazing technology including drones that can map inaccessible outcrops.
"I'd like to congratulate the GSWA for its outstanding and invaluable service; it has assisted mining companies in discovering new projects and helped create thousands of jobs for Western Australians."
