EROSION CELLS & MOSAICS

FLOODS, FLOOD PLAINS AND FLOODOUTS

RIVERS IN THE SAND DUNES & BEYOND

EFFECTS OF GRAZING

THE FINKE RIVER AND OTHER GORGES

GAMMA RAY IMAGERY

CONTRASTS -  RIVERS & MINING IN THE WET TROPICS

The fluvial landforms of Central Australia reflect the complex topography and geomorphic history of the region. The main river systems originate in steep mountain ranges, cross flat flood- or wash-plains, and terminate in floodouts, playa lakes or dunefields. Some rivers have floodplains with discontinous channel systems.

The legacy of past climates may be seen in landforms such as fans, terraces and palaeo-drainage systems. Traces of catastrophic floods such as ripple fields, palaeo-channels and other sedimentary features may be preserved for thousands of years.

European settlement had a major impact on the landscape with extensive erosion due to cattle grazing and to feral animals such as the rabbit. Patterns of landform development now show a biological element resulting from the spatial distribution of grazing animals.

The climate is semi-arid with highly variable rainfall and a dynamic vegetation cover. The distribution of plant cover plays a major role in determining patterns of erosion and deposition in floodplain areas. Perennial vegetation survives in wetter areas and zones of deposition, often promoting further accumulation of sediment.

Dr. Geoff Pickup works as a consultant specialising in river sedimentation issues, desertification and international environment policy. Until 2002, he was on the staff of CSIRO, Australia as Chief Research Scientist, Land & Water.

From 1982 to 1995, he was Program Leader at the CSIRO's Centre for Arid Zone Research in Alice Springs. During his 14 years in the Australian arid zone, he took many photographs and was fortunate? enough to be present during several major floods. Some of his images may be seen on this website.