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Journal of Australian Energy Producers
RESEARCH ARTICLE

GEOLOGY, SOURCE ROCKS AND HYDROCARBON GENERATION IN THE CLARENCE-MORETON BASIN

A. R. Martin and J. D. Saxby

The APPEA Journal 22(1) 5 - 16
Published: 1982

Abstract

The geology and exploration history of the Triassic-Cretaceous Clarence-Moreton Basin are reviewed. Consideration of new geochemical data ('Rock-Eval', vitrinite reflectance, gas chromatography of extracts, organic carbon and elemental analysis of coals and kerogens) gives further insights into the hydrocarbon potential of the basin. Although organic-rich rocks are relatively abundant, most source rocks that have achieved the levels of maturation necessary for hydrocarbon generation are gas-prone. The exinite-rich oil-prone Walloon Coal Measures are in most parts relatively immature. Some restraints on migration pathways are evident and igneous and tectonic events may have disturbed potentially well-sealed traps. Further exploration is warranted, even though the basin appears gas-prone and the overall prospects for hydrocarbons are only fair. The most promising areas seem to be west of Toowoomba for oil and the Clarence Syncline for gas.

https://doi.org/10.1071/AJ81001

© CSIRO 1982

Committee on Publication Ethics


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