Progress report Tanami Magnetic Anomaly Area.

Abstract

During January 1965, a brief reconnaissance was carried out over Area A by the writer. The object of the reconnaissance was to investigate access to the area, the nature of the country and to try to find a surface reason for the Magnetic anomaly. On instruction from the above company, two areas, showing magnetic anomalies were inspected during the 29th, 30th and 31st January. The anomalies were located by an airborne magnetometer during a regional survey conducted by Aero Service Ltd for Exoil Company Pty Ltd. Two areas of intense anomalies are shown on the Aero Service Ltd plan accompanying their report. They have been designated Area A and Area B. The Granites is a deserted gold mine situated approximately 336 miles northwest of Alice Springs. The road has been graded, is sandy in places but quite passable. Area A is located approximately 40 miles northwest of The Granites, along the graded road. Area B is approximately 50 miles due east of The Granites. Access is along a disused Spinifex track, generally recognised by a thicker growth of Spinifex than on the surrounding plain. Travel on this track is slow, generally of the order of 5 mph. In all, 950 road miles were covered during the survey. AREA B - This area was inspected first. Flat Spinifex plains extend from The Granites to the De Savay Hills. Timber cover is moderate making visibility limited. Care must be taken on this track to maintain an easterly course as the brighter track past a split in the track leads north towards Mt Davidson.