Abstract
Beginning with some extraordinary observations made by Strzelecki in 1845, a brief history of the development of palaeomagnetism and rock magnetism in Australia is presented. Through a number of factors, ranging from prescient leadership to Australia's special geography and unique geological past, Australia's contribution to these fields surpasses what might otherwise be expected. Although this was particularly so in the early days, it continues to be so today. Australian palaeomagnetic and rock magnetic research currently leads the world in both applied areas, such as mineral exploration, and in fundamental areas, such as geodynamo mechanisms. Australia's high profile in IAGA Palaeomagnetism and Rock Magnetism database development can be traced back to the natural advantage bestowed by the dedication of Irving, and later McElhinny, at ANU in their frequent publication of the Geophysical Journal of the Royal Astronomical Society pole lists. The major Australian laboratories and the contributions that they have made are outlined.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 137-143 |
| Number of pages | 7 |
| Journal | AGSO Journal of Australian Geology and Geophysics |
| Volume | 17 |
| Issue number | 1 |
| Publication status | Published - 1997 |