Kinematic reconstruction of the Hastings Block, Southern New England Orogen, Australia

Abstract

This research project uses 3D geological modeling software to build a 3D structural surface model of the Permo-Carboniferous rocks in the northern Hastings Block (NHB). The model is being built using comprehensive strike and dip structural data and a digital elevation model. It is designed to unravel a comprehensively mapped, complexly folded, extensively faulted geological sequence where there are no well-log data. The new 3D model will enable testing of the validity of existing tectonic models, which will assist in constraining the relative timing of fault development, testing fault emplacement of the block, and verification of the number and orientation of folding events in the NHB. Fault-block analysis has highlighted shortcomings with the existing geological map of the NHB. Fault movement history shows early movement south of the NHB and later initial movement around the northern and northeastern margins of the NHB. Fault movement termination was probably during the Hunter-Bowen Orogeny after folding of the NHB. Preliminary 2D restoration indicated the NHB was compressed (folded) and then extensively faulted.