Bravus and the Carmichael mine advance understanding of outback springs

Bravus Mining and Resources is helping unlock the secrets of one of Australia’s most unique groundwater-dependent ecosystems.

The Doongmabulla Springs Complex in Central Queensland, 250km west of Mackay, comprises more than 180 individual springs, from tiny vents to wetlands over nine hectares in size. The complex supports a diverse range of native species reliant on water from the Great Artesian Basin. Its boundary is also about 11 kilometres from the Carmichael mine.

A deeper understanding of this remarkable system is one of the benefits of the Carmichael mine and the rigorous groundwater monitoring program Bravus Mining and Resources undertakes as part of the mine’s environmental approvals.

Now in its fifth year, the Great Artesian Basin Springs Research Program, conducted in partnership with Eco Logical Australia, combines field measurements, remote sensing, modelling and expert knowledge to gain critical insights into how the springs function.

“Bravus’ commitment to science-led management is setting new benchmarks for the industry,” Eco Logical Australia principal hydrogeologist said Anne Gibson. “This research allows us to better predict, prevent and manage potential impacts on these unique ecosystems.”

Since its inception, the program has supported monitoring at 135 sites, documented previously unknown springs and embedded long-term monitoring into Bravus’ Species Management Plan and Groundwater Dependent Ecosystem Management Plan.

The collaboration has earned industry recognition, with Bravus and Eco Logical Australia finalists for Excellence in Environmental Management and Sustainability at the 2024 Australian Mining Prospect Awards.

Through its broader groundwater modelling work Bravus continues to demonstrate how the Rewan Formation acts as a geological barrier that hydrologically separates the Carmichael mine from the Clemantis Sandstone aquifer feeding the Doongmabulla springs.