Formation of the Australian Alps Earthcache EarthCache
Formation of the Australian Alps Earthcache
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Question One: Based on the information above and your observations, what type of Rock is at the GZ? Describe the Texture, Colour and Size of the Grain in the Rocks.
Question Two: Describe any fossils you find and why are there fossils at the GZ?
Question Three: Compare the Rocks found at the Trailhead and the Rocks at the GZ. Why are there differences between the two rock types?
Formation of the Australian Alps
The Australian Alps do not fit the conventional image of towering, sharply defined peaks and ice-scoured ridges as found in the Himalayas and European Alps. Instead, the Australian Alps comprise extensive undulating plateaus and ridges, surrounded by steep slopes, escarpments and gorges.
The Australian Alps may not be very high by world standards - Mt Kosciuszko is only 2,228 metres above sea level, but Australia's Alps are remarkable for their age and formation. The Australian Alps are older, were formed differently, and have been subject to erosion for a longer period.
The Australian Alps has a lot of different rock types due to a complex geological history spanning more than 520 million years. The types of rock that can be found in the Australian Alps are, Granite, Basalt, Sandstone Mudstone, Slate, Schist, Gneiss and Limestone (Containing Fossils of coral, shells and algae).
During the last 90 million years, erosion has carved deep valleys into the plateaus of the Australian Alps while several minor uplift episodes pushed various parts of the Alps higher. These events have in many cases altered the course of rivers by tilting and faulting, in some cases reversing their flow and sending them in new directions.
One of the best places to witness the remains of this 520 million year old Geological Timeline is at the GZ on the summit of Mt Townsend in the Australian Alps of New South Wales.
Attempting the Cache
WARNING: The GZ is located in remote Alpine Country. It is important that you plan, prepare and equip yourself well when attempting this cache. Weather conditions in the mountains are colder, wetter and much less predictable than at lower altitudes. During winter and spring snow can cover long sections or all of the track. In summer, thunderstorms are common and snow may fall, especially on the higher mountains. The return hike to the GZ is 25kms.
FIRST TO FIND: Hoojar
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
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