Depositional evolution of the Bowen basin

The Bowen Basin is a structurally complex area occupied by a thick sequence of Permian‐Triassic volcanics and sediments whose depositional history is also complex and in many places has controlled the subsequent structural development. The depositional evolution is portrayed by isopach maps of eight regional rock units recognised in the Bowen Basin sequence. This sequence was deposited in a series of downwarps and on adjacent, less rapidly subsiding shelf areas. This paper discusses the shape, distribution, and persistence in time of the downwarps and shelf areas and indicates the relationship between them and the present structural elements of the Bowen Basin. The relationship of the depositional history of the Bowen Basin to the problems of exploration for oil and gas in the Basin is also discussed.