Deep Seismic Reflection Profiling in the Mount Isa Province - linking crustal structure to mineralisation

Six lines of deep seismic reflection profiling acquired in 2006 have provided new insights into the structure of the Proterozoic Mount Isa Province and its relationship to mineralisation. Large half-grabens that formed during sedimentation and volcanism have been identified in the profiles, and spatial relationships between some large mineral deposits and graben-bounding extensional faults have been noted. Major differences in structural and metamorphic character evident at the surface can be linked to deep structures, and variation in structural style from deeper penetrating faults in the west to shallower penetrating faults in the east, is evident in the profiles. The western margin of the province and its boundary with the Tennant Creek Block has been imaged, and is defined by east-dipping faulted margins of extensional basins. The edge of the previously unknown sedimentary Millungera Basin under cover was detected to the east of the exposed part of the Mount Isa Province.