Preliminary results from gpr stratigr aphic studies on Fraser Island, Australia

Fraser Island, situated off the east coast of Australia, is th'e largest sand island in the world. The geomorphic and sedimentological interpretations of the island have been, for the most part, made from aerial photo interpretation, boreholes, and logging of the few outcrops along the outer edges of the island, particularly the western side. To begin to understand the subsurface stratigraphy of Fraser Island, a ground penetrating radar (GPR) study was initiated. Results of the preliminary GPR surveys indicate that GPR is an effective tool to image the uppermost subsurface stratigraphy of this island. The profiles show detailed dune stratigraphy to depths greater than 24 m at Lake McKenzie. Water table and paleosols were also mapped and confirmed by subsequent auger holes. An initial GPR interpretation of the transects collected suggests Lake McKenzie may be a either a window lake or a perched lake of greater dimension than has been previously considered. Further GPR research is now warranted to map the lateral extent of the water table associated with Lake McKenzie.