Enhancing Earth Sciences in New South Wales, Australia, through Geotourism

1. ““““““““Geotourism - Enhancing AppreciationGeotourism - Enhancing AppreciationGeotourism - Enhancing AppreciationGeotourism - Enhancing AppreciationGeotourism - Enhancing AppreciationGeotourism - Enhancing AppreciationGeotourism - Enhancing AppreciationGeotourism - Enhancing Appreciation
of Earth Sciences in New South Walesof Earth Sciences in New South Walesof Earth Sciences in New South Walesof Earth Sciences in New South Walesof Earth Sciences in New South Walesof Earth Sciences in New South Walesof Earth Sciences in New South Walesof Earth Sciences in New South Wales””””””””
GSNSW, Maitland, 16GSNSW, Maitland, 16GSNSW, Maitland, 16GSNSW, Maitland, 16GSNSW, Maitland, 16GSNSW, Maitland, 16GSNSW, Maitland, 16GSNSW, Maitland, 16thththththththth May 2013May 2013May 2013May 2013May 2013May 2013May 2013May 2013
Angus M RobinsonAngus M RobinsonAngus M RobinsonAngus M RobinsonAngus M RobinsonAngus M RobinsonAngus M RobinsonAngus M Robinson

2. ‘‘Modern Day ExplorersModern Day Explorers’’ –– 19781978
An Early Geotourism Awakening!An Early Geotourism Awakening!
Whilst employed in theWhilst employed in the
tourismtourism industry,industry, I wrote a
feature article in a tourism
publication (See Australia)
entitled ‘modern daymodern day
explorersexplorers’’ and described the
‘‘natural heritagenatural heritage’’ of theof the
mining areamining area of Chillagoe, Nth
Qld based on my observations
as an exploration geologistexploration geologist inin
the early 1970s.the early 1970s.

3. TodayToday’’s Agendas Agenda
� Landscapes and natural heritage
� What do we mean by geotourism/experiential tourism
� Scope of Geotourism and Geotourists
� National Landscapes and Geoparks
�� Geotourism Initiatives in NSWGeotourism Initiatives in NSW
�� A suggestedA suggested rrole for the GSNSWole for the GSNSW
� Take Aways

4. Scenery and Geology - a 1938 MusingScenery and Geology - a 1938 Musing
�� SceneryScenery depends on landland
structurestructure - in other words,
its geologygeology..
� Everyone interested in the
countrysidecountryside, how it has
taken shape, why it
presents us with the varied
beauties of mountain and
woodland, river valleys and
fertile meadows, is, if often
unconsciously, appreciating
its geology.geology.
A.E. Trueman
Professor of Geology, Glascow University

5. Understanding Natural HeritageUnderstanding Natural Heritage
Natural heritage is the legacy of natural
objects and intangible attributes
encompassing the countryside and natural
environment, including flora and fauna,
scientifically known as BIODIVERSITYBIODIVERSITY, and
geology, landforms and soil landscapes, i.e., i.e.
GEODIVERSITYGEODIVERSITY..

6. Understanding Geological Heritage (Geoheritage)Understanding Geological Heritage (Geoheritage)
GeologicalGeological heritageheritage sites (sites (geositesgeosites)) are placesare places
which enablewhich enable us to understand theus to understand the
composition ofcomposition of the earth, the internal andthe earth, the internal and
external processesexternal processes that have shaped it andthat have shaped it and
the evolvingthe evolving flora and fauna that occupied itflora and fauna that occupied it..
Source: Adapted from Dr Susan White, AESC 2010Source: Adapted from Dr Susan White, AESC 2010

7. 7
Therefore they will have similar:
� Geology
� Topography
� Vegetation
� Soils
�� Geoheritage featuresGeoheritage features
A SOIL LANDSCAPESOIL LANDSCAPESOIL LANDSCAPESOIL LANDSCAPE is:
a repeating pattern of soil and landforms resulting from aa repeating pattern of soil and landforms resulting from aa repeating pattern of soil and landforms resulting from aa repeating pattern of soil and landforms resulting from a
common geological/geomorphic history.common geological/geomorphic history.common geological/geomorphic history.common geological/geomorphic history.

8. GeotourismGeotourism –– Professor Tom Hose, UK (1995)Professor Tom Hose, UK (1995)
The provision of interpretive and service
facilities to enable tourists to acquire
knowledge and understanding of the geologygeology
and geomorphologyand geomorphology of a site (including its
contribution to the development of the Earth
Sciences) beyond the level of mere aestheticbeyond the level of mere aesthetic
appreciationappreciation.

9. GeotourismGeotourism –– National Geographic Society & theNational Geographic Society & the
Travel Industry Association of America (1997)Travel Industry Association of America (1997)
� Geotourism is "best practice" tourism that sustains, or even
enhances, the geographical character of a placegeographical character of a place, such as its
culture, environment, heritage, and the well-being of its
residents.
� Like ecotourism, geotourism promotes a virtuous circlegeotourism promotes a virtuous circle
whereby tourism revenues provide a local incentive to
protect what tourists are coming to see, but extends the
principle beyond nature and ecology to incorporate allincorporate all
characteristics that contribute to sense of placecharacteristics that contribute to sense of place.
� Geotourism incorporates sustainability principles,sustainability principles, but in
addition to the do-no-harm ethic, geotourism focuses on thegeotourism focuses on the
place as a whole.place as a whole.

10. Key ConceptsKey Concepts –– EcotourismEcotourism
� According to Ecotourism Australia, ecotourism is
ecologically sustainable tourismecologically sustainable tourism with a primary
focus on experiencing natural areasexperiencing natural areas that
fosters environmental and cultural
understanding, appreciation and conservation.
� Ecotourism Australia believes that the ultimate
definition of ecotourism is compliance with thecompliance with the
core criteria stated within the Eco CertificationEco Certification
Program.Program.

11. ‘‘ExperientialExperiential’’ TourismTourism ––
A New Product PropositionA New Product Proposition
� The global market is looking for unique productunique product
experiencesexperiences and a broader mix of experiences.
� The ‘geotourismgeotourism’’ experience (as defined by the NGS(as defined by the NGS)
creates a more holistic experiencemore holistic experience, and is a move
towards the ‘experiential’ tourism model.
� In short, ‘‘experientialexperiential’’ tourists seek memorablememorable
experiencesexperiences.

12. Geotourism incorporatingGeotourism incorporating
all types ofall types of ‘‘place-basedplace-based’’ tourismtourism
National Geographic PerspectiveNational Geographic Perspective
Boley, B.B. after Thompson, S. 2009
SightseeingSightseeingSightseeingSightseeing
CuisineCuisineCuisineCuisine
AgritourismAgritourismAgritourismAgritourism
IndigenousIndigenousIndigenousIndigenous
TourismTourismTourismTourism
HeritageHeritageHeritageHeritage
TourismTourismTourismTourism
CulturalCulturalCulturalCultural
TourismTourismTourismTourism
ECOTOURISMECOTOURISMECOTOURISMECOTOURISM
GeotourismGeotourism
i.e.i.e. ‘‘experientialexperiential
tourismtourism’’

13. Geotourism CharacteristicsGeotourism Characteristics
A GeologistA Geologist’’s Perspectives Perspective
1. Is geologically basedgeologically based and can occur in either
natural, rural or urban environments.
2. Fosters geoheritage conservationgeoheritage conservation through
appropriate sustainability measures.
3. Advances sound geological understandinggeological understanding
through interpretation and education.
4. Generates touristtourist or visitor satisfaction.
Dowling, 2010

14. Geotourism - asGeotourism - as oneone of the components of theof the components of the
many types ofmany types of ‘‘place-basedplace-based’’ tourismtourism
‘‘GeologicalGeological’’ PerspectivePerspective
Sightseeing
CuisineCuisineCuisineCuisine
AgritourismAgritourismAgritourismAgritourism
IndigenousIndigenousIndigenousIndigenous
TourismTourismTourismTourism
HeritageHeritageHeritageHeritage
TourismTourismTourismTourism
CulturalCulturalCulturalCultural
TourismTourismTourismTourism
EcotourismEcotourismEcotourismEcotourism
GeotourismGeotourism

15. GeotourismGeotourism –– Potential Markets??Potential Markets??
National Geographic/Tourism Industry ViewNational Geographic/Tourism Industry View
‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘ExperientialExperientialExperientialExperientialExperientialExperientialExperientialExperiential’’’’’’’’
Domestic TravellersDomestic TravellersDomestic TravellersDomestic TravellersDomestic TravellersDomestic TravellersDomestic TravellersDomestic Travellers
Geologists/Geomorphologists/SpeliologistsGeologists/Geomorphologists/SpeliologistsGeologists/Geomorphologists/SpeliologistsGeologists/Geomorphologists/SpeliologistsGeologists/Geomorphologists/SpeliologistsGeologists/Geomorphologists/SpeliologistsGeologists/Geomorphologists/SpeliologistsGeologists/Geomorphologists/Speliologists
/Paleontologists/Paleontologists/Paleontologists/Paleontologists/Paleontologists/Paleontologists/Paleontologists/Paleontologists
School GroupsSchool GroupsSchool GroupsSchool GroupsSchool GroupsSchool GroupsSchool GroupsSchool Groups
‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘ExperientialExperientialExperientialExperientialExperientialExperientialExperientialExperiential’’’’’’’’
Overseas TravellersOverseas TravellersOverseas TravellersOverseas TravellersOverseas TravellersOverseas TravellersOverseas TravellersOverseas Travellers
Geopark/PaleoPark InterestsGeopark/PaleoPark InterestsGeopark/PaleoPark InterestsGeopark/PaleoPark InterestsGeopark/PaleoPark InterestsGeopark/PaleoPark InterestsGeopark/PaleoPark InterestsGeopark/PaleoPark Interests

16. GSA GEOtouristsGSA GEOtouristsGSA GEOtouristsGSA GEOtouristsGSA GEOtouristsGSA GEOtouristsGSA GEOtouristsGSA GEOtourists
FiveFiveFiveFiveFiveFiveFiveFive MostMostMostMostMostMostMostMost Important Travel PurposesImportant Travel PurposesImportant Travel PurposesImportant Travel PurposesImportant Travel PurposesImportant Travel PurposesImportant Travel PurposesImportant Travel Purposes
1.1. Increasing knowledgeIncreasing knowledge of geological sites and
landforms.
2. To satisfy my curiosity.curiosity.
3. To have a memorable experiencememorable experience.
4. To obtain intellectual stimulationintellectual stimulation.
5. Visiting destinations offering a uniqueunique
bundlebundle of features and attractions (i.e.
ecology, geology, culture and history).

17. BrandingBranding ‘‘IconicIconic’’ GeotourismGeotourism ––
Ensuring a Memorable Experience!Ensuring a Memorable Experience!

18. GeotourismGeotourism (Geological Tourism) -The Players(Geological Tourism) -The Players
GeotourismGeotourismGeotourismGeotourismGeotourismGeotourismGeotourismGeotourism
GeomorphologistsGeomorphologistsGeomorphologistsGeomorphologistsGeomorphologistsGeomorphologistsGeomorphologistsGeomorphologists
Local GovtLocal GovtLocal GovtLocal GovtLocal GovtLocal GovtLocal GovtLocal Govt
Flora/FaunaFlora/FaunaFlora/FaunaFlora/FaunaFlora/FaunaFlora/FaunaFlora/FaunaFlora/Fauna
InterestsInterestsInterestsInterestsInterestsInterestsInterestsInterests
GeographersGeographersGeographersGeographersGeographersGeographersGeographersGeographers
‘‘‘‘‘‘‘‘GeologistsGeologistsGeologistsGeologistsGeologistsGeologistsGeologistsGeologists’’’’’’’’
(Various types)(Various types)(Various types)(Various types)(Various types)(Various types)(Various types)(Various types)
LandownersLandownersLandownersLandownersLandownersLandownersLandownersLandowners
Geol Surveys/Geol Surveys/Geol Surveys/Geol Surveys/Geol Surveys/Geol Surveys/Geol Surveys/Geol Surveys/
Planning Agencies/Planning Agencies/Planning Agencies/Planning Agencies/Planning Agencies/Planning Agencies/Planning Agencies/Planning Agencies/
Park ManagersPark ManagersPark ManagersPark ManagersPark ManagersPark ManagersPark ManagersPark Managers
Tour OperatorsTour OperatorsTour OperatorsTour OperatorsTour OperatorsTour OperatorsTour OperatorsTour Operators
Govt TourismGovt TourismGovt TourismGovt TourismGovt TourismGovt TourismGovt TourismGovt Tourism
AgenciesAgenciesAgenciesAgenciesAgenciesAgenciesAgenciesAgencies

19. GeotourismGeotourism –– Diversity of SitesDiversity of Sites
GeotourismGeotourismGeotourismGeotourismGeotourismGeotourismGeotourismGeotourism
IconsIconsIconsIconsIconsIconsIconsIcons
((((((((Inc National Landscapes)Inc National Landscapes)Inc National Landscapes)Inc National Landscapes)Inc National Landscapes)Inc National Landscapes)Inc National Landscapes)Inc National Landscapes)
Mine SitesMine SitesMine SitesMine SitesMine SitesMine SitesMine SitesMine Sites
National Parks/Reserves/National Parks/Reserves/National Parks/Reserves/National Parks/Reserves/National Parks/Reserves/National Parks/Reserves/National Parks/Reserves/National Parks/Reserves/
Urban ParksUrban ParksUrban ParksUrban ParksUrban ParksUrban ParksUrban ParksUrban Parks
Geo-trailsGeo-trailsGeo-trailsGeo-trailsGeo-trailsGeo-trailsGeo-trailsGeo-trails
Geo-sitesGeo-sitesGeo-sitesGeo-sitesGeo-sitesGeo-sitesGeo-sitesGeo-sites
Geoparks/Geoparks/Geoparks/Geoparks/Geoparks/Geoparks/Geoparks/Geoparks/
PaleoParksPaleoParksPaleoParksPaleoParksPaleoParksPaleoParksPaleoParksPaleoParks
Caves/Karst AreasCaves/Karst AreasCaves/Karst AreasCaves/Karst AreasCaves/Karst AreasCaves/Karst AreasCaves/Karst AreasCaves/Karst Areas
LandformsLandformsLandformsLandforms
WHAsWHAsWHAsWHAsWHAsWHAsWHAsWHAs

20. Definition of Karst
Karst is a distinctive landform formed on rocks that have a greater degree of
solubility (e.g. limestone) than is commonly found.
This process typically occurs over thousands or millions of years resulting in a
variety of unusual surface and below ground features such as arches, gorges,
sinkholes and CAVES. Cave tourism is one of the best exemplars of Geotourism!CAVES. Cave tourism is one of the best exemplars of Geotourism!
Cooleman Plains karst environments (Kosciuszko NP) Photos copyright A. C. Baker/DECCWCooleman Plains karst environments (Kosciuszko NP) Photos copyright A. C. Baker/DECCW

21. Definition of Karst EnvironmentsDefinition of Karst Environments
Integrated, yet dynamic, systems of landforms, life, energy, water, gases,
soils and bedrock.
Karst environments may contain significant geodiversity, biodiversity,
aboriginal cultural heritage, historic cultural heritage, aesthetic, scientific and
social values.
Photos copyright A. C. Baker/DECCW and S.Reilly/DECCW (middle imagePhotos copyright A. C. Baker/DECCW and S.Reilly/DECCW (middle image))

22. Geotourism and Mining AreasGeotourism and Mining Areas
� Existing and abandoned mining sites
� Old mining towns e.g. Broken Hill
� Historic mining regions e.g. West Coast Tasmania
� Economic Geology geosites e.g. gossans, alterationgossans, alteration
zones e.g. Turtle Island, Taiwan
� Old mine site complexes combining mining,
museums, ecological interpretation, history and
culture e.g. Gold Ecological Park, TaiwanGold Ecological Park, Taiwan

23. Broken HillBroken Hill
DEWHA has been assessing both the mining and minerals (i.e.
economic geologyeconomic geology) heritage of Broken Hill.
�� Broken Hill’s prominent role in AustraliaAustralia’’s mining history.s mining history.
� For the development of innovative mining and metallurgicalinnovative mining and metallurgical
practices.practices.
� As the place where safe working practices and workerssafe working practices and workers’’
legislationlegislation was first developed for miners.
� For its well-known mineralogical diversitymineralogical diversity..
� For its importance for the associations with many individualsassociations with many individuals
who have played a prominent role in the Australian mining
industry.
Source: DEWHA

24. Mining GeotourismMining Geotourism
Gossans and Alteration ZonesGossans and Alteration Zones

25. Jinguashi Gold Ecological Park, Taiwan

26. Jinguashi Gold Ecological Park, Taiwan

27. Jinguashi Gold Ecological Park, Taiwan

28. Jinguashi Gold Ecological Park, Taiwan

29. Jinguashi Gold Ecological Park, Taiwan

30. Jinguashi Gold Ecological Park, Taiwan

31. Jinguashi Gold Ecological Park, Taiwan

32. Jinguashi Gold Ecological Park, Taiwan

33. Tianzhushan Global GeoparkTianzhushan Global Geopark
Anhui Province, PRCAnhui Province, PRC

34. What is a Geopark?What is a Geopark?
� A Global Geopark is a unified area with geologicalgeological
heritageheritage of international significance and where that
heritage is being used to promote the sustainableheritage is being used to promote the sustainable
development of the local communitiesdevelopment of the local communities who live there.
� The Global Geopark brand is a voluntary, quality label
and while it is not a legislative designation, the keykey
heritage sites within a geopark should be protectedheritage sites within a geopark should be protected
under local, regional or national legislation asunder local, regional or national legislation as
appropriate.appropriate.
� These Earth heritage sites are part of an integrated
concept of protection, education, and sustainableprotection, education, and sustainable
developmentdevelopment.

35. Core Elements of a GeoparkCore Elements of a Geopark
A GEOPARKGEOPARK achieves its goals of fostering local developmentfostering local development
through a three-pronged approach:
� GEOCONSERVATIONGEOCONSERVATION: A GEOPARK seeks to conserve significant
geological features, and explore and demonstrate methods for
excellence in conservation.
� EDUCATIONEDUCATION: A GEOPARK organises activities and provides logistic
support to communicate geoscientific knowledge and environmental
concepts to the public.
� GEOTOURISMGEOTOURISM: A GEOPARK stimulates economic activity and sustainable
development through geotourism.

36. Land Composition of a GeoparkLand Composition of a Geopark
A GEOPARKGEOPARK may comprise either solely or a mixsolely or a mix ofof
� protected public lands including WHAs, national
parks and any other like areas designated byareas designated by
national governmentsnational governments,
� private lands,
and located wholly within or across national/statewithin or across national/state
boundariesboundaries’’

37. KanawinkaKanawinkaKanawinkaKanawinka
GeoparkGeoparkGeoparkGeopark

38. Some Geomorphic Highlights
Kanawinka Geopark – Victoria and New South Wales

39. Volcanic Landscapes, Kanawinka Geopark, VictoriaVolcanic Landscapes, Kanawinka Geopark, Victoria

40. Kanawinka and the EPHCKanawinka and the EPHC
In November 2009, Australian Government Ministers
for the Environment and Heritage decided that whilst
Australian governments support geological heritage,
they have significant concerns with the application of
the UNESCO Geoparks concept in Australia, especially
without government endorsement.
Furthermore they determined that existingexisting
mechanisms are considered sufficient to protectmechanisms are considered sufficient to protect
geoheritage.geoheritage.

41. Warrambungles, New South WalesWarrambungles, New South Wales ––
A Future Geopark for NSW?A Future Geopark for NSW?

42. ScenarioScenario
WarrambunglesWarrambungles
National ParkNational Park
Outstanding Miocene
Shield Volcano remnant
landforms close to a
major coal
development area
236 square km area

45. Australia’s
National
Landscapes

46. National Landscapes and GeoparksNational Landscapes and Geoparks
� Have similar goalssimilar goals relating to local
development, education and experiential
tourism (‘geotourism’).
� However, National Landscapes do not focusNational Landscapes do not focus
on fostering geoconservationon fostering geoconservation, but have a
broader ‘natural heritage’ remit.
� Nonetheless, the GSA has recently developed
with Parks Australia a protocol providing forprotocol providing for
geoscience inputgeoscience input.

47. Scenic RimScenic Rim –– Green CauldronGreen Cauldron National LandscapeNational Landscape

48. ‘‘Green CauldronGreen Cauldron’’ National LandscapeNational Landscape
TheThe ‘‘Scenic RimScenic Rim’’ RegionRegion

50. Two Geotour LeadersTwo Geotour Leaders ––
Different Interpretation TechniquesDifferent Interpretation Techniques
Dr John JacksonDr John Jackson
‘‘The Rock DoctorThe Rock Doctor’’
Bob BrownBob Brown
Bob & Nancy Geological Tour SiteBob & Nancy Geological Tour Site

51. ‘‘Gondwana CoastGondwana Coast’’ –– Fossils WalksFossils Walks
Ulladulla, NSWUlladulla, NSW

52. Kanawinka Geopark - Education

56. DomesticDomesticDomesticDomestic
InternationalInternationalInternationalInternational

57. The easy next stepThe easy next stepThe easy next stepThe easy next step

58. Camel Rock TurbiditeCamel Rock TurbiditeCamel Rock TurbiditeCamel Rock Turbidite
-36.378131
150.076987
These are the strongly
folded beds of 470
million year old
turbidite.
Turbidites form in the
deep ocean when
unstable masses of
sediment avalanche
down continental slopes, gathering water as
they go .
From each dense sediment flow, sand
settles
out first followed by finer sediment,
preserved
in a single bed or layer. Undulations in the
fine
layers at the top of each bed record the
ripples as the flow comes to rest.
The mud settles and duly forms as layers
seen
in the turbidite rock.
Link
http://www.sapphirecoast.com.au/6_The_g
eological_floor_-_the_Ordovician.pdf

59. RIFTING EAST GONDWANARIFTING EAST GONDWANARIFTING EAST GONDWANARIFTING EAST GONDWANA
Cretaceous volcanicsCretaceous volcanicsCretaceous volcanicsCretaceous volcanics
Formation Great Eastern EscarpmentFormation Great Eastern EscarpmentFormation Great Eastern EscarpmentFormation Great Eastern Escarpment
Formation continental shelfFormation continental shelfFormation continental shelfFormation continental shelf
Formation Tasman SeaFormation Tasman SeaFormation Tasman SeaFormation Tasman Sea
DEVONIAN EDEN- COMERONG RIFTDEVONIAN EDEN- COMERONG RIFTDEVONIAN EDEN- COMERONG RIFTDEVONIAN EDEN- COMERONG RIFT
Devonian volcanics & related graniteDevonian volcanics & related graniteDevonian volcanics & related graniteDevonian volcanics & related granite
Oxygenation , red beds fossil fishOxygenation , red beds fossil fishOxygenation , red beds fossil fishOxygenation , red beds fossil fish
TERTIARY LANDSCAPESTERTIARY LANDSCAPESTERTIARY LANDSCAPESTERTIARY LANDSCAPES
Escarpment developmentEscarpment developmentEscarpment developmentEscarpment development
Lava flowsLava flowsLava flowsLava flows
SandstoneSandstoneSandstoneSandstone
QUATERNARY LANDSCAPESQUATERNARY LANDSCAPESQUATERNARY LANDSCAPESQUATERNARY LANDSCAPES
Sea level fluctuations & current shoreSea level fluctuations & current shoreSea level fluctuations & current shoreSea level fluctuations & current shore
Sand dunesSand dunesSand dunesSand dunes
Coastal lagoons and lakesCoastal lagoons and lakesCoastal lagoons and lakesCoastal lagoons and lakes
MID DEVONIAN GRANITEMID DEVONIAN GRANITEMID DEVONIAN GRANITEMID DEVONIAN GRANITE
Bega BatholithBega BatholithBega BatholithBega Batholith
Granite landscape evolutionGranite landscape evolutionGranite landscape evolutionGranite landscape evolution
DISTINCTIVE GEODISTINCTIVE GEODISTINCTIVE GEODISTINCTIVE GEO
THEMESTHEMESTHEMESTHEMES
ORDOVICIAN REGIONAL FLOORORDOVICIAN REGIONAL FLOORORDOVICIAN REGIONAL FLOORORDOVICIAN REGIONAL FLOOR
Narooma accreted terraneNarooma accreted terraneNarooma accreted terraneNarooma accreted terrane
TurbiditesTurbiditesTurbiditesTurbidites

60. 50 km50 km50 km50 km
19191919
18181818
17171717
1616161615151515
14141414
13131313
12121212
11111111
10101010
9999
8888777766665555
4444 3333
2222 1111
19191919
7777666655554444
333322221111
181818181717171716161616
15151515141414141313131312121212
111111111010101099998888

61. NEXT ?NEXT ?NEXT ?NEXT ?
Green CauldronGreen CauldronGreen CauldronGreen Cauldron
Flinders RangesFlinders RangesFlinders RangesFlinders Ranges

62. Montague Island Cretaceous VolcanicsMontague Island Cretaceous VolcanicsMontague Island Cretaceous VolcanicsMontague Island Cretaceous Volcanics
To the 2km long IslandTo the 2km long IslandTo the 2km long IslandTo the 2km long Island’’’’s south easts south easts south easts south east
was a huge 99 million year oldwas a huge 99 million year oldwas a huge 99 million year oldwas a huge 99 million year old
stratovolcano. This was one of a chainstratovolcano. This was one of a chainstratovolcano. This was one of a chainstratovolcano. This was one of a chain
down eastern Gondwanaland markingdown eastern Gondwanaland markingdown eastern Gondwanaland markingdown eastern Gondwanaland marking
the rupture that formed the Tasmanthe rupture that formed the Tasmanthe rupture that formed the Tasmanthe rupture that formed the Tasman
Sea. The volcano flanks included theSea. The volcano flanks included theSea. The volcano flanks included theSea. The volcano flanks included the
dark coloured lava and tuffs on thedark coloured lava and tuffs on thedark coloured lava and tuffs on thedark coloured lava and tuffs on the
IslandIslandIslandIsland’’’’s north side. The Islands north side. The Islands north side. The Islands north side. The Island’’’’ssss
granite-like grey rocks are thegranite-like grey rocks are thegranite-like grey rocks are thegranite-like grey rocks are the
remnants of globs of molten materialremnants of globs of molten materialremnants of globs of molten materialremnants of globs of molten material
intruded into the volcanic debris. Theintruded into the volcanic debris. Theintruded into the volcanic debris. Theintruded into the volcanic debris. The
north side of Gulaga on the nearnorth side of Gulaga on the nearnorth side of Gulaga on the nearnorth side of Gulaga on the near
horizon has the same rock assemblage,horizon has the same rock assemblage,horizon has the same rock assemblage,horizon has the same rock assemblage,
giving an idea of the volcanogiving an idea of the volcanogiving an idea of the volcanogiving an idea of the volcano’’’’s size.s size.s size.s size.

63. Monaro Paleogene Lava PlainsMonaro Paleogene Lava PlainsMonaro Paleogene Lava PlainsMonaro Paleogene Lava Plains
The 4300 square km Monaro VolcanicThe 4300 square km Monaro VolcanicThe 4300 square km Monaro VolcanicThe 4300 square km Monaro Volcanic
Province was active over the periodProvince was active over the periodProvince was active over the periodProvince was active over the period
58 to 34 million years ago. Over 63058 to 34 million years ago. Over 63058 to 34 million years ago. Over 63058 to 34 million years ago. Over 630
cubic km of basalt was erupted fromcubic km of basalt was erupted fromcubic km of basalt was erupted fromcubic km of basalt was erupted from
65 known sites. Lava cascaded off the65 known sites. Lava cascaded off the65 known sites. Lava cascaded off the65 known sites. Lava cascaded off the
highlands down coastal valleys.highlands down coastal valleys.highlands down coastal valleys.highlands down coastal valleys.
Before this volcanic activity began,Before this volcanic activity began,Before this volcanic activity began,Before this volcanic activity began,
the region was a flat plain with manythe region was a flat plain with manythe region was a flat plain with manythe region was a flat plain with many
lakes and streams. Lake sediments oflakes and streams. Lake sediments oflakes and streams. Lake sediments oflakes and streams. Lake sediments of
white clay can be seen in placeswhite clay can be seen in placeswhite clay can be seen in placeswhite clay can be seen in places
beneath the basalt. The pollen andbeneath the basalt. The pollen andbeneath the basalt. The pollen andbeneath the basalt. The pollen and
fossil wood in these deposits indicatefossil wood in these deposits indicatefossil wood in these deposits indicatefossil wood in these deposits indicate
the region was covered by coolthe region was covered by coolthe region was covered by coolthe region was covered by cool
temperate rainforest.temperate rainforest.temperate rainforest.temperate rainforest.

64. PRODUCT: NSW GEOTRAILSPRODUCT: NSW GEOTRAILSPRODUCT: NSW GEOTRAILSPRODUCT: NSW GEOTRAILSPRODUCT: NSW GEOTRAILSPRODUCT: NSW GEOTRAILSPRODUCT: NSW GEOTRAILSPRODUCT: NSW GEOTRAILS
► Are predetermined routes, which link sites of geoheritage significance or
interest (possibly geosites/parks).
► Visitors travel by car/coach/bike to nominated sites where they can
participate in a range of active and passive pursuits including geoventuresgeoventuresgeoventuresgeoventures
such as caving, abseiling, mountain biking etc.
► Could involve the downloading of information from the DECC Website to
personal MP3 players and GPS units – for use in on-site interpretation and
route navigation.
► Would be marketed through brochures, signage, the DECC Website and other
forms of electronic media, which would identify/describe tourism
infrastructure
Source: Stephen Meehan, OEH
GEOTOURISMGEOTOURISMGEOTOURISMGEOTOURISM
A road best travelledA road best travelledA road best travelledA road best travelled…………

65. PRODUCT: NSW GEOTRAILSPRODUCT: NSW GEOTRAILSPRODUCT: NSW GEOTRAILSPRODUCT: NSW GEOTRAILSPRODUCT: NSW GEOTRAILSPRODUCT: NSW GEOTRAILSPRODUCT: NSW GEOTRAILSPRODUCT: NSW GEOTRAILS
► Be developed/marketed in conjunction with NSW Tourism, regional tourism
organisations, local councils and the business community.
► Partnerships with Aboriginal communities would also be sought – in many cases
geosites have cultural heritage significance.
► Individual geotrails could target niche markets (e.g. wanderers, compatriots,
pampadours).
►► Would be the first of itWould be the first of it’’s kinds kind – while similar products have been developed on
a regional level (e.g. Flinders Rangers and SA Fossil Trail), its proposed scale
and product mix makes it special.
GEOTOURISMGEOTOURISMGEOTOURISMGEOTOURISM
A road best travelledA road best travelledA road best travelledA road best travelled…………

66. On tour with our greatest rock stars … …
Dine with three
beautiful sisters …
Hang with
the in
crowd …
Meet these and other rock stars on a NSW GeotrailNSW GeotrailNSW GeotrailNSW Geotrail (see
Inset). For further information visit
www.environment.nsw.gov.au or contact your nearest office of
the Department of Environment and Climate Change.
GEOTOURISMGEOTOURISMGEOTOURISMGEOTOURISM –––– a road best travelleda road best travelleda road best travelleda road best travelled
Unwind with legends …

68. NSW OpportunitiesNSW Opportunities
1. GeoTreat smartphone application project.
2. Existing Central NSW Mining Trail application.
3. Cartoscope NSW Geotourism Map.
4. Proposed OEH NSW Geotrail.
5. AusIMM Heritage project with pilot in the
Illawarra

69. How Can GSNSW Help?How Can GSNSW Help?
1. GeoTreat smartphone application project.
2. Existing Central NSW Mining Trail application.
3. Gold Trails NSW www.goldtrails.com.au
4. Cartoscope NSW Geotourism Map.
5. Proposed OEH NSW Geotrail.
6. AusIMM Heritage project with pilot in the
Illawarra
7. AESC field trips, Newcastle, July 2014

70. GeotourismGeotourism –– EstablishingEstablishing ‘‘Common GroundCommon Ground’’ withwith
the Parks Movementthe Parks Movement
There is an opportunity for geotourism advocates to engagegeotourism advocates to engage
with pwith parkark managersmanagers to determine commonality on issues
relating to:
�� Connecting LandscapesConnecting Landscapes
� Forming PartnershipsPartnerships
�� Attracting VisitorsAttracting Visitors
� Development of Regional CommunitiesRegional Communities
�� IndigenousIndigenous Engagement
� Identification and Establishment of Geosites/GeotrailsGeosites/Geotrails
�� Geoscience information & interpretation e.g. web sitesGeoscience information & interpretation e.g. web sites

71. Take-AwaysTake-Aways
1. The incorporation of the geotourism
experience (with traditional nature tourismtraditional nature tourism
and elements of otherand elements of other ‘‘place basedplace based’’ tourism)tourism)
creates a more holistic experience, and is a
move towards the experiential tourism modelexperiential tourism model.
In short, ‘experiential tourists seek
memorable experiences.
2.2. GeoheritageGeoheritage and Geotourism are inextricably
linked.

72. Take-AwaysTake-Aways
3. Geotourism initiatives are now being rolled
out in NSW to meet growing public interest.
4. The GSA and the other geological societies
(e.g. The AusIMM and the AIG) would
welcome the opportunity to partner with both
the GSNSW and the OEH to enhance the scope
and effectiveness of these projects.

73. Contact DetailsContact DetailsContact DetailsContact DetailsContact DetailsContact DetailsContact DetailsContact Details
www.leisuresolutions.com.auwww.leisuresolutions.com.au
angus@leisuresolutions.com.auangus@leisuresolutions.com.au
O418 488 340O418 488 340
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