APPENDIX H.
DIGEST OF HYDRAULIC ENGINEER'S REPORTS.
OUR ARTESIAN WATER SYSTEM.
The water supply problem is of importance so momentous, and the official information collected by the Hydraulic Engineer being scattered through reports covering about twenty-five years—from 1883 until 1908—it is thought desirable to present the main official facts in a convenient digest for the general reader.
SUB-ARTESIAN WATER IN 1884.
Up to 1883, when the McIlwraith Government created the Hydraulic Engineer's Department by appointing Mr. J. B. Henderson to organise it, little had been done by the State for the improvement of the water supply of the country except in cities and towns. At that time no artesian water was known to exist in Queensland, but there was a popular belief that there were great underground supplies, especially in Western Queensland. Many station-owners had been active, and the diamond drill had been brought into use, but deep drilling had not then been undertaken. In October, 1884, the Hydraulic Engineer reported that he had just visited Widgeegoara Station, where the owners, Messrs. E. and J. Bignell, partly by sinking shafts and partly by boring, had obtained an underground pumped supply aggregating 94,000 gallons every twenty-four hours. This resulted from sinking four 5 ft. × 2½ ft. shafts an average depth of 102 ft. each, and thence boring and tubing below the bottom of each shaft to the average depth of 161 ft. Of the total quantity 20,000 gallons a day was obtained from the Four-mile well, a shaft sunk to a depth of 150 ft. below the natural surface. Besides this there was a homestead well 33 ft. deep. Analyses of the water showed that, in the opinion of the Government Analyst, only in one bore was it useful for watering sheep, it being brackish; but according to the station reports the supply from the Four-mile well and Nos. 1 and 2 shaft-bores was good stock water. Mr. Henderson warmly commended the Messrs. Bignell's enterprise.
IMPROVED BORING MACHINERY.
During the same month the late Hon. George King, of Gowrie, brought under the notice of the department a report by Mr. Darley, C.E., to the Government of New South Wales respecting certain American well-boring machinery by the use of which in Mr. King's opinion three-fourths of the cost of £6,000 incurred by his firm in sinking shafts in the Warrego district might have been saved. Besides which much greater depths could be reached, a machine costing £600 in America being capable of boring 2,000 ft. The matter being referred to the Hydraulic Engineer, that officer made inquiries which induced him heartily to endorse Mr. King's suggestion that the Government should secure from America a machine with two men experienced in working it and capable of themselves making any ordinary repairs. Mr. Henderson also recommended that a staff should be trained by the Americans after arrival, and expressed the opinion that this course would save both money and time, and prove a large gain to the colony. But he reminded the Minister that until there had been an abundant rainfall extensive operations in bore-sinking in the West could not be carried on, though he advised the introduction of a sufficient number of machines and enough tubing in order that during the next season, if rain fell, work should be vigorously commenced.
On 4th September, 1885, the Hydraulic Engineer replied in unequivocal terms to a minute of his Minister requesting him to comply with the wish expressed that he should purchase a Victorian diamond drill, then under offer, for coal-prospecting purposes. Mr. Henderson strongly recommended that no drill be purchased unless capable of boring holes at least from 5 in. to 2 in. in diameter. He also pointed out that where drifts and loose gravels were met with, and tubed, a deep bore must be commenced of large diameter to ensure success. Although the proposed drills were not ostensibly to be used for water-finding, it is evident that the Hydraulic Engineer, in reporting upon them, had that kind of work in view.
GOVERNMENT URGED TO IMPORT PLANT AND MEN.
On 2nd December following the Hydraulic Engineer addressed the Minister touching water-boring operations, and pointed out that, while there would be no difficulty in importing the machinery and appliances requisite for deep bores, he was convinced that men must be introduced from America to start and teach others here to work them. He recommended that an efficient plant should be ordered capable of boring up to 12 in. in diameter to a depth of 2,500 ft., for (say) £1,000, delivery at the works, and four good drillers under a two years' engagement brought out to work them at 21s. to 23s. per day, apparently of twelve hours; board, lodging, and travelling expenses to be defrayed by the Government.
OBSTACLES FROM DROUGHT.
On 20th February, 1886, the Hydraulic Engineer wrote that, understanding from conversations with the Minister that "the policy of the Government is to carry on water conservation works and boring for underground water with increased energy, he recommends the purchase of three Wright and Edwards' boring machines, capable of reaching a depth of 1,000 ft., for delivery within four months from the date of order." Three days later Mr. Henderson wrote:—"Unfortunately it can be said with much truth that, ever since the department's existence, the seasons have been unfavourable in the extreme for carrying out its plans." After mentioning the specific difficulties encountered, he added:—"I do not share in the idea that the late rains broke up the drought, as I cannot disguise from myself the fact that they have not been general, or even yet of sufficient quantity."
FIRST BORING STARTED AT BLACKALL.
Although the Hydraulic Engineer, so long before as December, 1884, had recommended the Minister to import American boring machinery with men trained to work it, it was not until 19th October, 1886, nearly two years later, that he was able to announce that his advice had been so far followed that Mr. Arnold, an American borer from Honolulu, had gone to Blackall with a Pennsylvania Walking Beam Oil Rig boring machine which had been constructed in Brisbane. It seems that so long previously as July, 1885, two tenders for boring by Americans—one being from Mr. Arnold—were submitted by the Hydraulic Engineer to the Minister, with the intimation that they were both too vague for acceptance, and expressing the hope that Mr. Arnold, "who seemed a man of considerable experience, would submit a more liberal and definite offer." The same report mentions that on the 30th June previously the Blackall bore had been carried to a depth of 775 ft., and that at 127 ft. good water had been struck that rose to a height of 60 ft. below the surface, but was deemed insufficient for the requirements of the town. Up to that time nine bores had been completed, chiefly by the ineffective Tiffin auger, but not one had reached artesian water, the deepest being that at Blackall, and the average depth 371 ft.
ARTESIAN WATER STRUCK AT THURULGOONA.
In his report of 12th November, 1887, the Hydraulic Engineer states that it is essential that only the best quality of tubing, or "casing," should be used in bores. In April he had visited, by direction of the Treasurer, Thurulgoona Station, on the New South Wales border, and there carefully inspected boring operations. He found that one bore had, by means of the Canadian Pole Tool boring machine, been sunk to 1,079 ft., a supply of excellent water having been struck at a depth of 1,009 ft., "the water overflowing in my presence to a height of about 20 in. above the surface of the ground." This was apparently the first artesian water Mr. Henderson had seen in Queensland, though he had years previously seen the artesian well at Sale, in Victoria; and he naturally pronounced the opinion that the result at Thurulgoona was "very satisfactory." During this year boring had been carried on in Queensland without success so far as the formation of flowing wells was concerned. Mr. Arnold, having sunk to 1,039 ft. at Blackall, resigned, but it was decided to continue sinking, all the tubing being recovered with the exception of a few feet, and being capable of use several times over if need be. During this year also tenders had been received from Mr. Loughead, of Thurulgoona, to put down three bores of 2,500 ft. in Queensland, and Mr. Henderson reported that there was every prospect of a tender being received from a company recently formed in Brisbane at a slightly lower price than Mr. Loughead had named.
GOVERNMENT'S FIRST FLOWING WELL.
It was at this time, after three years' fighting with difficulties arising from drought, the want of knowledge of deep-boring machinery, and the indisposition of the Government to spend much money in so speculative an undertaking, that the first gleam of daylight appeared. On 6th October, 1888, the Hydraulic Engineer reported that four contracts had been entered into for deep boring, with as many different persons or companies, in the aggregate over 20,000 ft. Included among these was the contract with the Canadian Pole Tool Company (of which the late Mr. Percy Ricardo was then the financial head, and Mr. William Woodley, who had been induced to come over from Canada, was the head driller) for completing the Blackall bore to a depth of 2,000 ft. if necessary. In this bore, on 26th April, 1888, after many vexatious stoppages, "an abundant supply of overflowing, sparkling, fresh artesian water, excellently adapted for domestic purposes, was tapped at a depth of 1,645 ft." The rate of flow, as measured from 3 in. piping attached to a screw plug and valve to control the flow, was found to be 210,000 gallons per diem, with a temperature of 119 degrees. This had been an expensive bore, for it cost £5,748. It was not the first artesian water officially utilised in Queensland, for four months earlier than water rose to the surface in the Blackall bore the Barcaldine bore was yielding 175,416 gallons of water a day, at a temperature of 101 degrees, obtained from a depth of 691 ft., and at a cost of only £1,220.
THIRTEEN ADDITIONAL BORES.
These results were so encouraging that the Hydraulic Engineer recommended the sinking of thirteen additional bores, and the recommendation was approved. As early as possible tenders were advertised, and there then seemed some difficulty in getting eligible applications, partly, it may be assumed, because of the activity of private enterprise in bore-sinking. To those engaged in this undertaking Mr. Henderson in his 1889 report pays a graceful tribute, congratulating them on their successes, and expressing regret at their failures, in which they only met the same luck as the Government had encountered. It was in this report also that the Hydraulic Engineer suggested that a map be prepared showing the position, altitude, and other useful particulars of all Government and private bores and wells in Queensland, and he invited information from all persons capable of giving it. Mr. Henderson mentioned the successful sinking of the Cunnamulla bore, having a flow of 22,500 gallons per hour of "excellent fresh water," with a pressure of 186 lb. to the square inch, a temperature of 106 degrees, and a depth of 1,402 ft. The total cost of this bore was £1,928. The success of the Tambo bore was also reported at the same time, 8,333 gallons per hour having been obtained at a depth of 1,002 ft., with a temperature of 98 degrees, and for a cost of £1,515.
THE CHARLEVILLE BORE.
The Hydraulic Engineer's report dated 11th September, 1890, supplies evidence of the importance of the discoveries made up to that date of artesian water in Queensland. The striking of a supply of 3,000,000 gallons a day of "water clear, colourless, soft, and potable" in the Charleville bore is noted with satisfaction. In the text of the report this was said to be, so far as the writer knew, the "best well in Australia," but a footnote added that soon afterwards a bore in the Cunnamulla district was reported to have been tapped with a daily supply of 3½ million gallons. The depth of the Charleville bore was only 1,370 ft., and its cost £2,389. The striking of a supply of 1,095,000,000 gallons per annum at so small a cost was naturally a subject for both official and general congratulation.
INFORMATION SOUGHT AS TO PRIVATE BORES.
In the same year is reported the striking of water in the Muckadilla bore, which yielded about 10,000 gallons a day from a depth of over 3,000 ft., and was then believed to be the deepest bore in Australia. The cost was £2,673. A somewhat better supply was afterwards struck at 3,262 ft. In this report the Hydraulic Engineer expresses regret that through the absence of barometrical measurements, owing to scarcity of money, the height above sea level of proposed sites for bores was not known, but sites were selected from surface indications and the results achieved by sinking in the neighbourhood. The wells sunk by the Government had been of much use in assisting private enterprise to select likely sites, but it would have been more satisfactory had better information been obtained by the use of the spirit level. Acknowledgments were made to those who had responded to the circular invitation sent out for information, and regret was expressed that in some cases there had been no response. The effort made, however, had enabled several new features to be embodied in the report, among which was a table containing a list of both public and private bores, and a large map locating, so far as possible, the position of each. Another map showed the rainfall in different parts of the colony, while a handsome diagram of the Brisbane rainfall was furnished for the first time. Both of these remained features of the Hydraulic Engineer's annual reports until 1901, when revenue considerations compelled their suspension.
HINDRANCES FROM FLOODS.
During 1890 excessive rains and bad roads hindered work in bore-sinking, instead of the dry periods which had been the cause of embarrassment for the preceding seven years. The only newly completed bore during this year was that at McKinlay, which at 1,002 ft. gave a supply of 224,000 gallons a day. Water was struck in two other bores, but of insufficient quantity, and work was still proceeding. The obstacles encountered in boring, often from the breaking of machinery, but more frequently from the want of thoroughly skilled drillers, must have been disheartening, especially in cases where the sinking was done without useful scientific information, and bores had to be abandoned after months—even years in cases—of labour and worry.
In his report of 20th January, 1893, the Hydraulic Engineer discusses at length the question of artesian water supply. The country is, he holds, now in a much improved position to encounter long droughts. Valuable information has been and is still being obtained by exploration as to the prospects of artesian water being found, and also as to the conservation of surface water by artificial means. He says that fifteen bores, averaging 1,571 ft. each, have been sunk by the department, and that although the work has been of a pioneering character only one sunk to the contract depth has proved a failure. He estimates that about 88,000 square miles in the western country have been proved to be water-bearing, and he urges that as large areas still remain to be explored the present is a favourable time for inviting tenders for the work.
STREAM-GAUGING RECOMMENDED.
In this report the Hydraulic Engineer directs attention to the necessity of acquiring information as to the extent of our surface-water resources. In three of the southern colonies, he mentions, a systematic practice of gauging streams has for some time been in force. The work will be useless unless it is carried on for a number of years. The essential thing to be ascertained is not the maximum flow of a stream, but the minimum; or rather, perhaps, the maximum that can be expected from a stream in a season of maximum aridity. "Without such data," he continues, "no fair distribution of water, no scheme of water supply, or irrigation, or drainage can be well considered; nor can storage and distribution or drainage works be economically designed, or their permanency and efficiency ensured." He therefore urges the matter of stream-gauging upon the favourable consideration of the Government, adding that the paramount necessity of active administration in respect of water conservation generally has been recognised by Parliament by legislation already placed upon the Statute-book.
WASTE OF ARTESIAN WATER.
Two official pages of the 1893 report are devoted to the "misuse of water," a member of Parliament having already objected to the application of the word "waste" to water allowed to flow unchecked from bores. The aggregate capacity of the ten Government bores then flowing was 5,000,000 gallons daily, all measured; while of the 137 private wells the flow was estimated at 100,000,000 gallons daily. This total of 105,000,000 gallons would be equivalent to a rainfall of 29 in. on 91 square miles of country. This was the rate of average rainfall on the assumed outcrop of water-bearing country that supplied the artesian area. And it had to be remembered that a part of this rainfall of 29 in. had to be carried off by streams as well as by evaporation, and therefore did not sink into the water-bearing strata of the arid west. As to the extent of the outcrop, it was estimated not to exceed one-eighth of a mile, with a total length of 1,600 miles, which meant a total supply of 200 square miles of water-bearing outcrop area.[a] Arguing on these and other grounds, the report contends that the falling off of the yield of many bores affords proof that, wherever the supply comes from, the outflow already exceeds the inflow. The Engineer can only regard as wasted two-thirds of the water that now flows from the artesian bores in Queensland; indeed, adopting the language of an American, "the waste is a crime against the well-owner and against the State."
[Footnote a:] For fuller particulars see Hydraulic Engineer's Report for 1893, pages 5 and 6.
CONTROL OF FLOW NECESSARY.
The Hydraulic Engineer adds that while he cannot assert that the artesian flow is being exhausted, he yet holds that the flow ought to be controlled by legislative action.[a]
[Footnote a:] On this passage the Hydraulic Engineer notes that, in 1891, a bill was introduced into Parliament by Sir Thomas McIlwraith for controlling the artesian water supply, and passed through the Assembly, but was rejected by the Council. Since then no action in that direction has been taken.
IRRIGATION BY BORES.
The same report contains an interesting article on irrigation. It points out that at the beginning of 1892 there were only 200 irrigators among the land cultivators of the colony, and that the area irrigated was only 5,000 acres. It was believed that in the last year the amount of land so fertilised had largely increased. Many of the plants and distributing apparatus were of a most primitive kind. "Some are expensive, others badly erected, and not a few are of a type ill-adapted to the object in view."
The report goes on to discuss the probability or otherwise of water in sufficient quantities for irrigation being obtainable by conservation. In summarising his argument the Hydraulic Engineer says, "Looking at the question broadly, I am much disposed to regard the possibilities of a sufficiently abundant supply of water being obtained for irrigation, especially for land in small areas devoted to intense culture, as of considerable promise." He then urges the inadequacy of artesian wells for the irrigation of large areas, pointing out, among other things, that the entire discharge of the wells then flowing in Queensland would suffice to irrigate only 219 square miles to a depth of 1 ft. He thinks that in Queensland we shall have to depend upon "natural" water for irrigation purposes.
A VALUABLE MAP—376,832 SQUARE MILES IN ARTESIA.
A new feature in the 1893 report was the map giving information as to (1) artesian bores applied for, (2) under contract, (3) in progress, and (4) completed. It showed that out of a total of 668,497 square miles of the "Rolling Downs Formation" (Lower Cretaceous) no less than 376,832 square miles, chiefly in the arid west, was likely to be water-bearing. This estimate, it may be noted, has been very slightly reduced of late, but the scope for exploration in water-finding seems still great in Western Queensland. The report alludes to the success attained in the Queensland manufacture of well-boring machinery. All the plant used, the wire rope alone excepted, was manufactured in the colony, where improvements had been made in the originally imported article. Yet it is admitted that the apparatus used was "not a perfectly scientific one, because it does not produce a core by means of which the nature of the strata and the angle and direction of the dip can be fully ascertained." Queensland yellow-wood (Flindersia Oxleyana) had quite replaced American timber in the manufacture of drilling poles.
SCENE ON LOGAN RIVER, SOUTH QUEENSLAND
EFFECT OF GOOD SEASONS.
In closing, the Hydraulic Engineer reports that the succession of good seasons experienced (years 1890-93), and the abundance of water and grass resulting, has occasioned much inattention to water conservation, and he also expresses regret that financial exigencies have compelled the dispensing with some valued members of his staff. The article is illustrated by diagrams, and the studious reader will peruse it with profit.
THE SOURCE OF ARTESIAN WATER.
In his report for 1st November, 1894, the Hydraulic Engineer recurs to the source of artesian water. He regrets that very little can be added to the previous assumption that it lies in the outcrops of the porous beds of the Lower Cretaceous formation on the western slope of the coast range; and he urges the necessity of accumulating facts relating to the bores already sunk, and complains that some owners neglect to give the department the information sought. He urges that legislation should make the furnishing of statistical matter of this kind compulsory. He doubts whether, in the absence of information as to the precise geological conditions subsisting beneath the surface, a map of Queensland can ever be prepared showing with certainty where artesian water can be found; but much may be done by accumulating accurate information with respect to the sinking of bores, nature of strata passed through, amount and pressure of flow, temperature of water, and depth beneath the surface whence obtained in each case. The map issued by the Geological Department would show the water-bearing areas, which means the formation in which water may be expected to be found; but bores can only be put down with reasonable certainty when the entire western country has been prospected.
THE LIFE OF ARTESIAN WELLS.
The life of an artesian well with a permanent spring, says the report, is limited by the durability of the casing. The corrosive action of some water is much greater than others; but there should be no difficulty in renewing the casing when necessary. It has often been discovered that an interruption of the flow, or its serious diminution, is the result of worn-out casing. So much is this the case that there is still controversy as to whether there is any general diminution in the supply consequent upon continuous waste.
ARTESIAN WATER POWER.
The report then discusses the question of using artesian water for power in the industries. The Hydraulic Engineer points out that of the total horse-power used in the United States at that time about 39·5 per cent. was hydrodynamic. Artesian water, he says, can be applied to driving all kinds of machinery, "from a sewing machine or a cream separator to a saw or flour mill; and for fire-extinguishing it is most excellent." He therefore recommends the employment in Western Queensland of turbines and Pelton wheel motors for sheep-shearing, electric lighting, and other kinds of machinery used there, pointing out that the horse-power available was—At Blackall, 8·04; at Cunnamulla, 41·53; at Charleville, 123·41; and at Thargomindah, 63·51.[a] He further recommends the utilisation of the artesian supply for street mains, a suggestion since carried out with great public advantage in several western towns. While Mr. Henderson doubts the utility of artesian water for irrigation, he says that, generally speaking, it is quite as valuable as that from town mains, rivers, and falls for developing power. The aggregate area to date in which precious artesian water has been found in Queensland is 117,000 square miles, and he feels that this area would be rapidly enlarged by exploration by both Government and private borings. The shallowest completed flowing well in Queensland at that date was 60 ft., and the deepest 3,630 ft.; the average depth so far as known to the department was 1,289 ft.
[Footnote a:] Mr. Henderson notes that these horse-powers have since been very much reduced.
STATIC PRESSURE AND HYDRAULIC PRESSURE.
Explaining why the volume flowing from a well does not depend upon the diameter of the "static" pressure of the water, Mr. Henderson says that the flow depends principally upon the relative altitudes of the outcrops of the water-bearing beds, and of the mouth of the bore or well, and upon the character and texture of the porous beds from which the well derives its supply. The static pressure is ascertained by stopping the flow by artificial means, when the pressure generally rises, sometimes quickly, at other times slowly, until it reaches a maximum. But when the well is again opened it will be found that the static pressure has been more or less reduced by friction. This reduced pressure is called the "hydraulic." The hydraulic pressure can never exceed the static pressure; nor can the volume of water flowing from an artesian well be ascertained by its pressure, or the height to which the water may rise over the top of the casing, any more than the pressure can be ascertained by knowing its volume.[b]
In the same report is announced the striking at Winton, at a depth of 3,235 ft. of a supply amounting to 100,000 gallons a day, at a temperature of 140 degrees. It was determined to continue sinking under a new contract.
[Footnote b:] See Votes and Proceedings, 1894-5, for Hydraulic Engineer's Report, 1st November, 1894, page 5.
SUBTERRANEAN WATER BELONGS TO THE STATE.
Mr. Henderson again returns to the misuse of water, suggesting that the utility of the artesian supply can easily be tested by intense cultivation of a small area at each bore. He complains that one of Queensland's most valuable assets is not as carefully guarded as it should be. He estimates that the quantity allowed to run uncontrolled and generally misused amounts to 66,000,000 gallons per diem, or 66 per cent. of the estimated total flow in Queensland. He invites attention to a recommendation in a previous report that all underground or artesian water should be declared State property. This would not prevent owners of artesian water taking and using a reasonable supply of water, but all consumption beyond what might be called a "liberal" amount should be paid for, the State receiving the water rate. The experience of America in this matter proved that in some States control by the Government was enforced, while in others the greatest care was exercised to prevent any further granting of subterranean water franchises unless the absolute right of the State was reserved to regulate the consumption. Appended to the report is a copy of a recommendation by a Commission in the State of Colorado for regulating, distributing, and using water. Mr. Henderson thinks the recommendation too severe, but insists that some State control should be exercised.
The same report contains an interesting review of the condition of irrigation enterprise in Queensland, and again insists that scientific stream-gauging is indispensable if surface water is to be made generally available for irrigation purposes.
EXTENT OF ARTESIAN SUPPLY.
The report dated 5th October, 1895, recurs to the Hydraulic Engineer's previous estimate that the outcrops of the water-bearing beds of the country covered an area of about 200 square miles. He is glad to learn that Mr. R. L. Jack, Government Geologist, had since worked the matter out, and, while approving of Mr. Henderson's suggestion as to the source of artesian supplies in Queensland, estimated the area as 5,000 square miles, or twenty-five times the Engineer's estimate. This information seems to have allayed Mr. Henderson's dread of the exhaustion of the supply, for he says that the Geologist's figures indicate that "the gathering-ground is larger than can possibly be required for years to come if there is no extensive leakage, of which as yet there is no evidence that I am aware of." He next writes strongly in favour of a comprehensive search for artesian water by the Government, and of Government aid being offered by loan to persons willing to sink bores on Crown lands or even on private property. Such assistance would encourage settlement by leaving the settler in possession for other purposes of money which would otherwise be spent on water provision on his holding, and prove an incalculable benefit to the State by mitigating periodical droughts.
PROGRESS TO 1895.
The report then gives statistics relative to artesian bores as follows:—Number of bores, 397; average depth, 1,195 ft. Of these 286 overflow with a total output of 213½ million gallons per diem. Total cost of boring and casing, £860,321, as nearly as could be estimated, "remarkable results for eight years' work, as in 1887 boring in Queensland was in its infancy." With a view to greater accuracy provision for the salaries of two inspectors had been made on the Estimates for the year, in order that uniform records might be secured as to the strata pierced, the flow, the pressure and temperature of the water, amount of rainfall at the outcrop of water-bearing beds, and the alleged diminution of artesian streams. The suggestion is then made that land, the leases carrying water rights, might be made available for settlement in small areas around tanks and bores.
THE WINTON BORE.
In this report the Hydraulic Engineer is able to announce the success of the Winton bore. At about 3,555 ft. a daily supply of 720,000 gallons of excellent artesian water was struck, and boring being continued to 4,010 ft. without increasing the supply work ceased, the total cost of the bore having been about £7,000. An article on irrigation shows a total irrigated area of 7,641 acres, an increase for the year of 2,240 acres. Included in the area are 2,000 acres of natural grass land and 2,000 acres sown with artificial grasses; also 11½ acres irrigated from artesian wells in the Warrego district. Flood mitigation is also dealt with at length, and a system of flood warnings on the various streams recommended.
Dr. R. L. JACK'S OPINION.
The report for 2nd October, 1896, brings records up to date. By map it is shown that not only does the water-bearing country extend over 56 per cent. of the area of Queensland, but also continues into New South Wales and South Australia, and enters Western Australia. It "marks the position of the ancient Cretaceous sea which connected the Gulf of Carpentaria with the Great Australian Bight," and "divided the continent into two islands." "They were," wrote Dr. R. L. Jack, "laid down by this sea; their present position is due to subsequent general upheaval, and they lie directly and unconformably on schists and slates of undetermined age, or on granite or gneiss. Except in Queensland, where they are overlaid here and there by the remains of the Upper Cretaceous or Desert Sandstone formations which have not been removed by denudation, they seem to be covered to a considerable extent by Tertiary rocks. The Desert Sandstone beds lie horizontally but unconformably on those of the Rolling Downs, which dip to the south." [a]
[Footnote a:] See "Geology and Palaeontology of Queensland and New Guinea," by R. L. Jack, F.G.S., Government Geologist, and R. Etheridge, jun,. Government Palaeontologist, New South Wales, page 390.
IMPROVED DRILLING MACHINERY.
In the same report the improvement in drilling machinery is discussed, and Queensland manufacturers are congratulated on making American and Canadian machines with improvements which greatly add to their efficiency. Bores in Queensland are generally begun with 10-in. casing, and carried to not lower than 500 ft. Then 8-in., 6-in., and 5-in. casings are used. The necessity of these casings being as perfect as possible is emphasised by the Engineer. The cost of sinking bores by contract, which is almost the universal method, depends upon the facilities offered by the site for the transport of wood and water, but the range then was from 17s. to 24s. per foot for the first 500 ft., and increased with depth until, at 4,000 ft. odd, sinking had cost 55s. per foot. The inspectors appointed the previous year had done good work, though the wet season delayed travelling. Sectional diagrams compiled from the inspectors' reports appear among the appendices.
Then follows an interesting description of surface artesian water known as Elizabeth Springs, in latitude half a degree south of the tropic, and in 140¾ degrees west longitude. The account of these remarkable springs is well worth reading.[a]
[Footnote a:] See Votes and Proceedings for 1897 for Hydraulic Engineer's Report, 2nd October, 1896, page 5.
PROGRESS TO 1896.
Number of bores in Western Queensland to October, 1896, 454; average depth, 1,168 ft.; feet bored, 530,332 (nearly 100 miles); overflow, 193,000,000 gallons per diem. There were also nineteen deep bores on the coast. The total cost had been £928,081.
BORES IN THE GULF TOWNS.
Reporting on 2nd August, 1897, the Hydraulic Engineer mentions that the Burketown bore has been carried to a depth of 2,304 ft., with a supply of 155,560 gallons of good water at a pressure of 60 lb. per square inch, and a temperature of 155 degrees, the cost being £4,155. A few months earlier the Normanton bore had struck water at 2,330 ft., for 293,000 gallons a day, with a temperature of 151 degrees, at a total cost of £3,803.
PROGRESS COMPARED WITH SOUTHERN COLONIES.
The same report glances at the progress made in artesian water discovery in the southern colonies. Queensland aggregate flows on 30th June, 1897, were estimated at 140,000,000 gallons daily, or 51,135,000,000 gallons annually. This would suffice to cover 294 square miles with water 1 ft. deep, or 100 square miles 35⅓ in. deep. In New South Wales, in 1897, there were thirty-four flowing and twelve pumping bores, yielding 22½ million gallons of water per diem. In Victoria only one or two flowing bores had been put down, the country being generally unfavourable for artesian water. In South Australia there were in all sixty-two bores, seven being still in progress, but of the total only nineteen wells gave good fresh water, and twenty-two wells salt water. Seeing that artesian water exploration began in the three colonies named before any steps were taken in Queensland, the success here may be regarded as phenomenal, although of course a very considerable amount of capital was lost in sinking abortive bores.
GRAZING FARM SELECTORS' BORE.
The report dated 15th September, 1898, mentions that the Bando bore sunk for the Lands Department for the accommodation of grazing farm selectors was completed during the year at a depth of 2,081 ft., giving a supply of 2,000,000 gallons daily, and at a cost of £3,289. It was estimated to water 146,000 acres. The Roma bore for the town supply had also been completed at a depth of 1,678 ft., and yielded a controlled supply of 111,000 gallons daily, which sufficed for the wants of the town.
STATISTICS TO DATE.—THARGOMINDAH ILLUMINATED.
Particulars of thirty-seven bores sunk in the colony to a depth of 3,000 ft. and over are given. Of these eleven had reported flows, either large or small, during the year, three had been abandoned, and nine were still in progress. The yield of 376 bores in the colony was estimated at 214,000,000 gallons a day, the average per bore being over half a million gallons. Besides these, fifty-five sub-artesian wells—those whose water did not rise above the surface—yielded 2½ million gallons a day; and perennial springs gave an ascertained continuous flow of nearly 4,000,000 gallons a day. The report calls attention to a serious diminution in the yield of certain wells, and says that it has been ascertained in some cases that the loss was due to loss of head, and not to any leakage or obstruction in the casing. The Hydraulic Engineer therefore again urges legislation to give the Government control of bore water. As to power, it is mentioned that a small electrical installation had been set up at Thargomindah by the Bulloo Divisional Board, and that the number of lamps of sixteen candle-power that would exhaust the bore power was 150 to 200.
THE DROUGHT OF 1899.
When the report dated 30th August, 1899, was prepared the country was held in the throes of a protracted drought, and the Hydraulic Engineer speaks of compression in his report on the ground of economy. For years past the reports had been becoming increasingly bulky, appendices and maps being supplied on a generous scale. Government expenditure in bore-sinking had now nearly ceased, presumably because private enterprise had already benefited greatly by Government prospecting for water, and the same necessity did not exist for State action as in previous years. The new feature of the departmental year's work is stated to have been the comparative analysis of the height of bore sites and the water potentials thereat, upon which the iso-potential map, with the full description given in page 56 of the report, is based. By this time the number of bores sunk to a depth of 3,000 ft. and over was fifty, an increase for the year of thirteen, which shows that private enterprise was still active in the search for artesian water. The total number of flowing bores in the colony was given as 440, with a yield of water of nearly 266½ million gallons a day.
The report dated 25th August, 1900, mentions that during the year in the Adavale bore 9,000 gallons of water a day had been struck at 1,494 ft., and although further sinking had been carried to 2,930 ft. there was no increase in the supply. By this time the number of bores sunk to 3,000 ft. and over had increased by nine, or to fifty-nine, while the aggregate flow of artesian water was put at over 321½ million gallons per day.
REGRETTABLE ECONOMIES.
The report dated 31st August, 1901, was the last to supply the very full information customarily given annually by the department. There was almost universal drought and difficulty. In some parts of the State, however, the drought had broken, so that needful works could be again pushed on. But this was by no means the end of the great drought of 1898-1903, and the appendices and valuable maps which added so greatly to the permanent value of the reports of the department were discontinued, and only a brief report was presented. This is much to be regretted, but retrenchment was enforced by revenue shrinkages and the dislocation temporarily caused by federal union. Happily, however, the information has since been carefully collected, and is now available to complete this sketch of the work done and results achieved since the year 1883, when the department was created under Mr. Henderson's direction. In the 1901 report the success of the Adavale bore is recorded, the depth being 3,398 ft., with a flow of 990,890 gallons per day, and at a total cost of £5,369. The striking of a supply of water in the Dalby bore to the amount of 46,470 gallons an hour at a depth of 1,841 ft. is also mentioned in this report. This success is interesting on account of the site being the furthest easterly where artesian water has been found.
The report for 1902 was cut down to the minimum limit. It was prepared while the country was in the grip of the worst drought ever known, and yet private enterprise was active as ever in bore-sinking, no less than thirty-six flowing wells having been completed during the year. The total number in the State was thus brought up to 563, yielding 375,000,000 gallons a day, the average flow per bore being 666,231 gallons.
ADDITIONAL FLOWING BORES IN 1903.
The report for 1903 was brief. During the year the number of flowing bores had increased by thirteen, and the aggregate flow by 10,000,000 gallons. The average flow was 669,279 gallons, or 3,048 gallons increase upon the flow for the preceding year. This in the face of the diminution of the flow in many bores cannot be considered unsatisfactory. The entire cost of well-boring in the State to 1903 is set down at £1,463,326, including abortive bores, and heavy sums for carriage of boring plant in the earlier days. It is mentioned in this report that the Whitewood bore, Bimerah, yielding only 70,000 gallons a day, at 5,045 ft., is still the deepest in Queensland. The shallowest is given as at Manfred Downs, at 10 ft., yielding 2,000 gallons a day; and the hottest water at Elderslie No. 2, where from a depth of 4,523 ft. emerge more than 1½ million gallons per diem at a temperature only 10 degrees below boiling point. The greatest static pressure is at the Thargomindah bore, where it is nearly 240 lb. to the square inch.
LATER INFORMATION.
Since 1902 until this year annual reports at length have not been furnished by the Hydraulic Engineer; but this year the work has been resumed, and advance information supplied in a condensed form.
In the foregoing epitome of the Hydraulic Engineer's reports extending over twenty-five years, no particular mention has been made of the failures inevitable when either the Government or private persons were engaged in deep boring for water exploration. The following particulars show some of the obstacles encountered in tapping the subterranean springs of our arid western country:—
In his report for 1902 the Hydraulic Engineer mentioned that a contract had been entered into with Mr. W. Woodley for the sinking of a bore at Eromanga to a depth of 2,000 ft. for the sum of £1,438, but that work could not be prosecuted in consequence of the prevailing drought in the West. The contract depth was reached on 29th August, 1903, without finding water. A further contract to carry the bore to 3,000 ft. was subsequently entered into, and on 30th June, 1904, at a depth of 2,612 ft., the work was suspended until the arrival of casing, which was delayed by rain. It was not until November, 1904, that the casings reached the bore site, and that work could be resumed. A suspension of work occurred on 4th March following for want of a competent driller. Boring was resumed in August and continued till March, 1906, without success. The only water tapped up to that time was a supply of 10,000 gallons per diem at a depth of 1,640 ft. The casings were allowed to remain in the bore, the gross cost of which had been £4,480. In May, 1906, a new contract with Mr. Woodley, for sinking another bore to a depth of 3,000 ft., was entered into. At 1,660 ft. a supply of 12,000 gallons a day was tapped; but, this being considered insufficient, another contract for deepening the bore to 3,500 ft. was entered into with Mr. Woodley, the additional cost being £1,000. On 9th March, 1908, the depth of 3,500 ft. was reached without any additional supply. Then a contract for sinking a further 500 ft. was entered into. At 3,980 ft. a small flow was tapped which dribbled over the surface, and the 4,000 ft. depth being reached arrangements were made for sinking another 100 ft. At 4,050 ft. a small flow of 110 gallons per hour was struck. At 4,135 ft. the flow increased to 250 gallons per hour. Delays occurred after this, until January, 1909, when boring was resumed, and at 4,270 ft. a flow of 306,234 gallons per diem was struck. The water was then brought under control, and found to have a pressure of 219 lb. per square inch, with a temperature of 198 degrees F. The water was fresh and drinkable, though having a slightly gaseous taste; but this was not noticeable after it had stood exposed to the air for a little time. On completion of the surface fittings the discharge was measured, and the flow ascertained to be 256,825 gallons per diem. The cost had not been adjusted at the date of our information, but it will be understood that a work extending over five years, and then yielding a comparatively small supply, makes bore-sinking a highly speculative industry, even in what the geologists declare to be artesian water-bearing country.
COOKTOWN AND ENDEAVOUR RIVER, NORTH QUEENSLAND
PEARLING FLEETS OFF BADU ISLAND, TORRES STRAIT
At the Kynuna bore, work had been suspended at the time of the last annual report at a depth of 2,221 ft., the flow being 807,608 gallons a day. When cased to the bottom the flow was 880,154 gallons per day. It was handed over to the Winton Shire Council, the total cost having been £2,610, half of which was granted as a loan to the council by the Government, and the other half as a free gift.
Another unsuccessful bore was at Windorah, where, under contract, a depth of 4,000 ft. was reached, with no water save an insignificant spring touched at 103 ft. below the surface. The total cost, including casing and supervision, was £7,508.
A bore at the joint expense of the Booringa Shire Council and the Government was started at Mitchell in January, 1908, and on 18th May, at a depth of 1,405 ft., the work was stopped, the supply, equal to 205,000 gallons a day, being considered sufficient. The cost of the bore was £1,935.
SUMMARY BY THE HYDRAULIC ENGINEER.
Summarising the information supplied in the accompanying tables, Mr. Henderson writes:—"The total continuous yield from 716 bores—the flows from which have been estimated by various persons, not connected with the department, and communicated to me either directly or through the public prints, for the accuracy of which I cannot vouch, and measured under the hydraulic survey which was suspended in 1899 and not yet resumed—is now estimated at 479,268,000 gallons per diem; hence the average flow per bore is 669,369 gallons in the same time.
"These figures do not include the flows from nine sub-artesian wells the flow from which is artificially produced by cutting down the outlet, but which it is understood have since ceased to flow, nor do they include the yield from 215 sub-artesian wells which are pumped more or less regularly during periods of drought, and which are estimated to yield 8,600,000 gallons per day, or an average of 40,000 gallons per well if pumped continuously night and day; but as it is impossible to form a trustworthy estimate of the daily volume raised I have put it down at what I think is approximately true—namely, 1,720,000 gallons.
"I may also mention that owing to the suspension of the departmental hydraulic survey previously mentioned, I have obtained no official data relating to perennial springs. The last data to hand are given in my summarised report for the year 1902."
WELLS SUCCESSFUL AND ABANDONED.
The following table shows the progress of boring and artesian supplies to end of 1908 [but it must be stated that only part of the data for the years 1907 and 1908 is to hand:—
| Sunk by | Artesian Flows. | Pumped Supplies. | Progress Abandoned or Uncertain. | Total. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| [a] Government Local Governing Authorities Private Owners | 32 16 668 | 10 0 205 | 76 24 315 | 118 40 1,188 |
| Total to end of 1908 | 716 | 215 | 415 | 1,346 |
[Footnote a:] Pioneering bores sunk to explore and ascertain the artesian possibilities of new country.
AGGREGATE MILEAGE BORED, AND AVERAGE FOR EACH WELL.
For comparison with former years I may mention (writes Mr. Henderson) that the total aggregate number of feet bored in search of artesian water in Queensland up to end of 1908 is estimated, from the best information at hand, at 1,498,700 ft., equal to 283·84 miles. The average depth per bore is 1,113 ft. The total aggregate depth bored is as follows:—
| Date | Miles. | Increase in Each Year. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
|
[Footnote b:] This includes a considerable number of old bores discovered and added to the 1898 year's list.
[Footnote c:] This includes thirty-four sub-artesian wells and bores in the Dalby district, representing an aggregate of 3,500 ft.
[Footnote d:] Data collected by Police Department at the beginning of 1907, which include a number of old bores not previously heard of.
[Footnote e:] Only a small part of data to hand, which was chiefly compiled from newspaper reports. It is a fact well known to this Department that never before was there in any year so much boring done as during the years 1907 and 1908.
FLOWING ARTESIAN BORES—1908.
Number of artesian flows of various magnitudes to end of 1908:—
| Under 10,000 gallons per day | 49 |
| From 10,001 to 150,000 gallons per day | 151 |
| From 150,001 to 750,000 | 296 |
| From 750,001 to 1,500,000 | 129 |
| From 1,500,001 to 2,500,000 | 57 |
| Exceptional flows of over 2,500,000 gallons per day | 34 |
| —— | |
| Total flowing bores | 716 |
The continuous yield of water is estimated at 479,268,000 gallons per diem, equal to 1,763·22 acre feet, or 2·755 square miles of water 1 ft. deep, in the same time.
The average flow of the 716 bores is thus 669,369 gallons per day, and their average depth is 1,575 ft.
The estimated value of 1,346 borings is £1,873,375.
ARTESIAN WELLS OVER 3,000 FEET DEEP.
The following is a list, compiled from the latest available information, of the Artesian Wells of the State over 3,000 ft. deep, in order of their depth:—
| Name of Bore. | Date of Commencement. | Depth. | Date of Completion or Suspension. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feet. | |||
| 1. Bimerah Run, No. 3, Whitewood | 11 Aug, 1898 | 5,045 | June, 1900 |
| 2. Bimerah Run, No. 1, Bothwell | May, 1895 | 4,860 | July, 1897 |
| 3. Elderslie Run, No. 2, Cathedral | April, 1900 | 4,523 | Sept., 1902 |
| 4. Ruthven Run, No. 1 | 1 Aug., 1905 | 4,515 | April, 1908 |
| 5. Ayrshire Downs Run, No. 1 | Jan., 1895 | 4,438 | Sept., 1897 |
| 6. Warbreccan Run | Jan., 1894 | 4,333 | 22 April, 1898 |
| 7. Manuka Run, No. 1 | Aug., 1896 | 4,310 | April, 1898 |
| 8. Bimerah Run, No. 2, Munjerie | Oct., 1897 | 4,310 | Jan., 1900 |
| 9. Eromanga (Government) | 16 July, 1906 | 4,270 | Jan., 1909 |
| 10. Rockwood Run, No. 1, Glenariffe | 15 Dec., 1891 | 4,220 | 15 July, 1897 |
| 11. Albilbah Run, No. 1, Cable End | 1 July, 1889 | 4,205 | Sept., 1902 |
| 12. Ruthven Run, No. 1 | 1 Aug., 1903 | 4,105 | 22 June, 1905 |
| 13. Lorne, No. 1 | ... | 4,057 | In Progress |
| 14. Minnie Downs Run | 11 May, 1899 | 4,040 | 30 April, 1902 |
| 15. Malboona, Manuka Resumption | 18 Feb., 1899 | 4,032 | 7 June, 1900 |
| 16. Winton (Government) | 16 July, 1889 | 4,010 | 25 June, 1895 |
| 17. Darr River Downs Run, No. 4, Overnewton | Feb., 1892 | 4,006 | 28 Mar., 1894 |
| 18. Thornleigh (Kargoolnah Shire) | May, 1901 | 4,003 | 15 Sept., 1902 |
| 19. Windorah (Government) | 1 July, 1902[a] | 4,001 | 24 May,1905 |
| 20. Vindex Run, No. 2 | Oct., 1898 | 4,000 | June, 1900 |
| 21. Ayrshire Downs Run, No. 3 | Sept., 1899 | 3,983 | Sept., 1902 |
| 22. Katandra and Stamfordham Runs, No. 1 | 8 Oct., 1892 | 3,980 | — 1896 |
| 23. Evesham, No. 1 | ... | 3,970 | In Progress |
| 24. Malvern Hills Run, Gowan | 1 July, 1890[b] | 3,942 | 10 May,1894 |
| 25. Darr River Downs Run, No. 2, Fairlie | 1 Nov., 1899 | 3,890 | May, 1891 |
| 26. Talleyrand, Camoola District | ... | 3,870 | —1898 |
| 27. Burenda Run, No. 3, Gidyea Creek | 16 Oct., 1895 | 3,840 | Sept., 1898 |
| 28. Oondooroo Run | Jan., 1900 | 3,800 | 1 April, 1901 |
| 29. Mount Abundance, No. 2 | — 1907 | ... | — 1908 |
| 30. Albilbah Run, No. 2, Jackson's | 21 Dec., 1889 | 3,800 | — 1893 |
| 31. Greendale, No. 1 | ... [c] | 3,799 | In Progress |
| 32. Vindex Run, No. 3 | 24 July, 1901 | 3,795 | 6 Sept., 1902 |
| 33. Muckadilla (Government) | 21 Oct., 1889 | 3,762 | 24 Dec., 1898 |
| 34. Redcliffe Run, Redcliffe | Jan., 1893 | 3,750 | 20 Mar., 1895 |
| 35. Clio G. F., Ayrshire Downs Resumption | — 1901 | 3,745 | April, 1902 |
| 36. Katandra and Stamfordham Runs, No. 2 | ... | 3,723 | — 1896 |
| 37. Ayrshire Downs Run, No. 2 | 11 April, 1898 | 3,721 | Sept., 1899 |
| 38. Roma Town, No. 2 | 28 June, 1899 | 3,710 | 17 Oct., 1900 |
| 39. Nive Downs Run, No. 2, The Ironbarks | 1 Jan., 1893 | 3,710 | 5 Sept., 1894 |
| 40. Roma Mineral Oil Company | — 1907[d] | 3,702 | Dec., 1908 |
| 41. Wellshot Run, No. 4 | Sept., 1901 | 3,698 | — 1902 |
| 42. Elderslie Run, No. 3 | Mar., 1900 | 3,680 | 18 May, 1901 |
| 43. Kensington Downs Run | — 1897 | 3,650 | June, 1898 |
| 44. Wyora, Winton District | 23 May, 1899 | 3,650 | 12 Mar., 1900 |
| 45. Darr River Downs Run, No. 3 | Jan., 1890 | 3,650 | Aug., 1891 |
| 46. Darr River Downs Run, No. 1, Nine-mile | 23 Dec., 1888 | 3,600 | Mar., 1899 |
| 47. Longreach Town, Aramac Shire | April, 1897 | 3,590 | 10 Dec., 1897 |
| 48. Noondoo Run, No. 2, Dareel | Nov., 1897 | 3,586 | July, 1899 |
| 49. Manuka Run, No. 2 | Feb., 1899 | 3,581 | June, 1901 |
| 50. Fairbairn, Dagworth Resumption | — 1900 | 3,579 | Sept., 1900 |
| 51. Wellshot Run, No. 3, Totness | 27 Oct., 1894 | 3,561 | 17 June, 1895 |
| 52. Barcaldine Downs Run, No. 1, Twenty-mile | — 1889 | 3,533 | 21 Jan., 1896 |
| 53. Lansdowne Run, No. 3, Downfall | Oct., 1894 | 3,529 | Jan., 1896 |
| 54. Jericho (Government) | Mar., 1902 | 3,518 | 15 June, 1903 |
| 55. Lerida Run, No. 1 | Sept., 1897 | ?3,511 | 16 July, 1898 |
| 56. Katandra and Stamfordham Runs, No. 4 | ... [e] | 3,510 | — 1907 |
| 57. Wellshot Run, No. 1, Bradnich | 16 Nov., 1892 | 3,504 | 2 Nov., 1893 |
| 58. Elderslie Run, No. 1, Farewell | Oct., 1896 | 3,500 | July, 1898 |
| 59. Lerida Run, No. 2, Glenullen | 12 July, 1898 | 3,500 | 3 Mar., 1900 |
| 60. Westlands Run, No. 2, Buffalo | 18 April, 1893 | 3,480 | 13 May, 1896 |
| 61. Acacia Downs G. F., Bowen Downs | Feb., 1897 | 3,480 | 20 July, 1897 |
| 62. Hamilton Downs Run, No. 2, Campsie | July, 1898 | 3,457 | Jan., 1900 |
| 63. Tintinchilla Run, Milo | Before 1895 | 3,411 | Mar., 1895 |
| 64. Dagworth Run, No. 2, Pinnacle | April, 1898 | 3,400 | Dec., 1898 |
| 65. Adavale Town (Government) | 27 Dec., 1899 | 3,398 | 8 Nov., 1900 |
| 66. Westbury, Camoola District | ... | 3,340 | — 1900 |
| 67. Dagworth Run, No. 1, Crescent Creek | April, 1892 | 3,335 | July, 1893 |
| 68. Arabella Run | 13 April, 1896 | 3,335 | 16 May, 1897 |
| 69. Jacondol G. F., Campbell's, Barcaldine | Mar., 1895 | 3,333 | — 1905 |
| 70. Thomson Watershed (Government) | Aug., 1891 | 3,319 | July, 1893 |
| 71. Burenda Run, No. 2, Burenda | Nov., 1894 | 3,315 | 14 Sept., 1895 |
| 72. Bowen Downs Run, No. 4, Muttaburra road | Aug., 1891 | 3,308 | Oct., 1894 |
| 73. Hamilton Downs Run, No. 1, Clio | ... | 3,301 | April, 1895 |
| 74. Noorindoo Run, No. 1 | Mar., 1901 | 3,300 | — 1904 |
| 75. Cooinda, Winton North District | 7 June, 1898 | 3,298 | 20 Jan., 1899 |
| 76. Portland Downs Run | 14 Aug., 1897 | 3,280 | 14 June, 1899 |
| 77. Chatsworth Run, No. 1 | ? 1894 | 3,266 | 5 Feb., 1895 |
| 78. Sesbania Run, No. 2 | May, 1898 | 3,252 | 19 Sept., 1898 |
| 79. Alice Downs Run, No. 2, Norwood | 11 April, 1898 | 3,248 | Dec., 1898 |
| 80. Mount Cornish Run, No. 2 | ... | 3,219 | 4 June, 1907 |
| 81. Sesbania Run, No. 5 | 5 June, 1901 | 3,186 | Mar., 1902 |
| 82. Sesbania Run, No. 6 | ... | 3,179 | — Aug., 1909 |
| 83. Terrick Terrick Run, Lorne | — 1907[f] | 3,140 | — 1908 |
| 84. Sesbania Run, No. 4 | Feb., 1899 | 3,103 | Jan., 1900 |
| 85. Noorindoo Run, No. 2 | Feb., 1903 | 3,103 | 2 April, 1904 |
| 86. Noondoo Run, Narine | — 1896 | 3,098 | Nov., 1897 |
| 87. Birkhead Run, No. 1, Macfarlane | 29 June, 1898 | 3,095 | — 1906 |
| 88. Authoringa and Riversleigh Runs, No. 2, Rocky | 1 Jan., 1896 | 3,086 | June, 1898 |
| 89. Llanrheidol Run, No. 2, Acacia | June, 1896 | 3,085 | 3 April, 1897 |
| 90. Hughenden M. C. Town Bore | 3 Jan., 1894 | 3,069 | July, 1898 |
| 91. Muttaburra District, Brookwood | ? 1895 | 3,065 | April, 1895 |
| 92. Authoringa, No. 3, Spinifex | Aug., 1898 | 3,060 | — 1899 |
| 93. Muttaburra District, Weewondilla | ... | 3,060 | Dec., 1903 |
| 94. Albion Downs Run | Oct., 1897 | 3,033 | Sept., 1899 |
| 95. Muttaburra, Crossmoor | — 1906 | 3,030 | 27 July, 1908 |
| 96. Barcaldine North District, Fairview | ... | 3,028 | 20 July, 1907 |
| 97. Myall Plains, Boombah | Feb., 1907 | 3,024 | Dec., 1908 |
| 98. Lansdowne, No. 2, Narambla | Nov., 1889 | 3,005 | Feb., 1892 |
| 99. Yarrawonga Run, Ada | ... | 3,000 | June, 1898 |
| 100. Tarra Grazing Farm, No. 4 | ... | 3,000 | — 1906 |
[Footnote a:] Abandoned or suspended at 4,001 feet.
[Footnote b:] Abandoned at 3,942 feet.
[Footnote c:] In progress at 3,799 feet.
[Footnote d:] In progress at 3,702 feet.
[Footnote e:] Abandoned or suspended at 3,510 feet.
[Footnote f:] In progress at 3,140 feet.
The hydraulic survey, suspended some years ago, has not yet been resumed; therefore the foregoing return, furnished by the Hydraulic Engineer in advance of his report, has been compiled from unofficial documents which have not yet been verified, and is given for what it is worth.
STATISTICS SUPPLIED BY WELL-BORING COMPANIES.
In order to make the record of artesian boring in Queensland as complete as possible, the following information has been obtained from the two principal drilling firms at present engaged in the State. It will be noticed that the list of the Intercolonial Boring Company includes three bores in South Australia:—
List of Bores over 3,000 feet in Depth put down by Intercolonial
Boring Company, Limited.
| Name of Bore. | Depth. Feet. | Date Completed. |
|---|---|---|
| Ayrshire Downs, No. 3 | 3,983 | September, 1902 |
| Brookwood, No. 1 | 3,065 | May, 1895 |
| Boombah, No. 1 | 3,024 | December, 1908 |
| Chatsworth, No. 1 | 3,266 | February, 1895 |
| Cooindah, No. 1 | 3,289 | January, 1899 |
| Dagworth, No. 1 | 3,335 | July, 1893 |
| Dagworth, No. 2 | 3,400 | December, 1898 |
| Dareel, No. 1 | 3,586 | July, 1899 |
| Elderslie, No. 3 | 3,626 | May, 1901 |
| Evesham, No. 1 | 3,970 | In progress |
| Fairview, No. 2 | 3,028 | July, 1907 |
| Greendale, No. 1 | 3,799 | In progress |
| Goyder's Lagoon, S.A. | 4,850 | March, 1905 |
| Hamilton Downs, No. 1 | 3,301 | April, 1895 |
| Hamilton Downs, No. 2 | 3,457 | January, 1900 |
| Kynuna, No. 7 | 3,226 | December, 1908 |
| Lerida, No. 1 | 3,511 | July, 1898 |
| Lerida, No. 2 | 3,500 | March, 1900 |
| Llanrheidol, No. 2 | 3,085 | April, 1897 |
| Lorne, No. 1 | 4,057 | In progress |
| Manuka, No. 2 | 3,581 | June, 1901 |
| Mungeranie, S.A. | 3,360 | February, 1900 |
| Mulka, S.A. | 3,445 | December, 1906 |
| Mount Cornish, Tablederry | 3,219 | June, 1907 |
| Mount Cornish, No. 3 | 3,015 | June, 1909 |
| Narine, No. 1 | 3,098 | November, 1897 |
| Ruthven, No. 1 | 4,105 | June, 1905 |
| Ruthven, No. 2 | 4,515 | April, 1908 |
| Roma Mineral Oil | 3,715 | In progress |
| Sesbania, No. 2 | 3,252 | September, 1898 |
| Sesbania, No. 4 | 3,103 | January, 1900 |
| Sesbania, No. 5 | 3,186 | March, 1902 |
| Sesbania, No. 6 | 3,179 | August, 1909 |
| Vindex, No. 2 | 4,000 | June, 1900 |
| Vindex, No. 3 | 3,795 | September, 1902 |
| Warbreccan, No. 1 | 4,333 | June, 1898 |
| Winton (deepened) | 4,010 | June, 1895 |
| Wyora, No. 1 | 3,600 | March, 1900 |
Note.—Bores marked S.A. are in South Australia.
Brisbane, 1st October, 1909.
Bores Completed and in Progress by Woodley Limited, Brisbane,
since 31st March, 1909.
1. Bore at Millie Station, near Charleville, D. McNeill owner. Depth, 1,732 ft.; water 8 in. over casing; flow ¾-million gallons per diem.
2. At Claverton Downs, near Wyandra, Mrs. Whitney owner. Depth, 1,955 ft.; water 22 in. over casing; flow about 1½ million gallons.
3. At Bendena Station, Burgess and Co. owners. Depth, 2,232 ft.; water 4 ft. 6 in. over casing; flow about 3½ million gallons.
4. At Bonus Downs Station, Mitchell, Sir S. McCaughey owner. Depth, 3,424 ft. 6 in.; water rising to 60 ft. below surface; boring ceased in slate formation.
5. At Eurella Station, Donald Fletcher owner. Depth at end of September, 2,124 ft., still in progress; water rising to within 150 ft. of the surface.
6. At Clifton Station, C. H. T. Schmidt owner. Depth, 26th June, 225 ft.; in progress.
7. At Koreelah Station, Charleville. Depth at end of June, 400 ft.; in progress.
8. At Comongin Station, Bulloo, McLean, Barker, and Co. owners. Depth on 30th June, 600 ft.; in progress.
9. At Aberglassie Station, J. R. and H. C. Loughran owners. Starting.
10. At Cytherea Station, R. T. Winter owner. Starting.
11. At Airlie Downs, A. Leeds owner. Starting.