Tectonic model for the Devonian to middle Permian of the New England Orogen

Abstract

Abstract Eight sets of stratigraphic layers and igneous rocks are the basis for the recognition of eight tectonic periods, TP1‐TP8, in the history of the New England and Yarrol Orogens from the Devonian to the opening of the Tasman Sea in the Late Cretaceous. The opening of the Tasman Sea caused the removal of an eastern section of the New England Orogen to form parts of the Lord Howe Rise and Norfolk Ridge. The Gwydir‐Calliope and Kuttung volcanic arc systems of TP1 and TP2 in the Devonian and Carboniferous were possibly W‐facing, and probably formed far to the NE of their present positions relative to the Lachlan Orogen. They moved SW as they developed, and in the latest Carboniferous or earliest Permian were cut obliquely by the Mooki Fault on which there was a dextral strike‐slip of about 500 km before the Kuttung volcanic arc became extinct. In the Late Carboniferous a narrow region on the E side of the Peel Fault was elevated to form the Campbell High which was intruded by the Bundarra Plutonic Suit...