Geological Society of Australia

Overview

The Geological Society of Australia (GSA) is a non-profit organization established in 1952 to promote, advance, and support Earth sciences in Australia. The society aims to foster scientific excellence, communication, and community engagement to create lasting positive change for the benefit of all.

History and Founders

The GSA was founded with Edwin Sherbon Hills as its first chairperson. Another key figure in the society's foundation was William Rowan Browne, who served as president from 1955 to 1956.

Mission

The mission of the Geological Society of Australia is to promote and advance Earth Sciences, encompassing all relevant disciplines. The society represents Earth scientists from various professions, including geologists, geophysicists, geochemists, palaeontologists, geotechnical and engineering geologists, environmental geologists, and associated professions. Its members come from the minerals and petroleum industries, government departments, research and education institutions, and consultancy groups.

Structure

The GSA is managed by a National Executive and has a division in each state and territory, as well as branches in the Hunter Valley and Broken Hill. Regular meetings are held across Australia, allowing members to stay updated on scientific developments, present their work, and engage in discussions on vocational and scientific topics. Specialist Groups cater to different sectors of the Earth sciences.

Publications

The society publishes several journals and periodicals for Earth scientists and the broader community:

• Australian Journal of Earth Sciences (AJES): This is the official journal of the GSA, publishing eight issues per year. It contains peer-reviewed papers covering all fields of Earth Science and has a Journal Citation Report Impact Factor.
• The Australian Geologist (TAG): A quarterly magazine that includes technical and special features, society news, conference details, regular reports, book reviews, and other items of interest to Earth scientists.
• Geoz: An electronic bulletin that serves as an Australian Earth sciences news service available free to members and non-members.

Activities

Throughout the year, the GSA holds various events, including:

• State Division meetings
• Specialist Group conferences
• Webinars
• Workshops
• Fieldtrips
• Outreach activities
• Student symposia

These events facilitate networking, knowledge sharing, and professional development among Earth scientists.

Impact

The Geological Society of Australia plays a crucial role in advancing Earth sciences in Australia by providing forums for communication, promoting research, and supporting education. Its activities contribute to the development of the geoscience sector and foster community engagement with Earth science issues.

[1] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/51e9a9b4-39af-e811-a960-000d3ad24282 [2] https://www.gsa.org.au [3] https://www.gsa.org.au/Public/Public/About.aspx [4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geological_Society_of_Australia [5] https://speciation.net/Database/Companies/Geological-Society-of-Australia-GSA/Geological-Society-of-Australia-GSA-;i1123a1277