Proceedings of the 1st Australian Conference on Engineering Geology

Welcome to the 1st Australian Conference on Engineering Geology (ACEG)

It is with great enthusiasm that we welcome you to the inaugural Australian Conference on Engineering Geology (ACEG), taking place in Brisbane, Australia, from 23 to 25 July 2025. This landmark event is the first of its kind in the country, dedicated to enhancing the profile of engineering geology and celebrating the invaluable contributions of the professionals who contribute to our industry. Engineering geology is often overlooked by institutions, owners and companies as a key part of developing and maintaining infrastructure and mining in Australia. In the absence of a firm knowledge in how to apply geological understanding to engineering then key decisions can be missed. This application of geology was established in Australia through many of the previous practitioners like Daniel Moye, David Stapledon, and Alan Moon who helped shape how we investigate, describe, record and construct with the geological model and engineering application both in mind.

Supported by the Australian Geomechanics Society Limited (AGS) and the International Association for Engineering Geology and the Environment (IAEG), along with industry partners including the Australian Institute of Geoscientists (AIG) and the Geological Society of Australia (GSA), this conference is a testament to the collaborative efforts of organisations committed to fostering career development, expanding technical knowledge and supporting engineering geology as a specific disclipline.

With approximately 40 industry specific technical papers, two keynote speakers, three invited speakers, and a panel session, ACEG 2025 offers a diverse and engaging program that highlights both the latest advancements and the enduring challenges within engineering geology. We are fortunate to have local engineering geologist, Warwick Wilmot, host the field trip to Maleny to view the landslides of the basalt terrains. Warwick’s extensive publications have significantly contributed to the understanding of the southeast Queensland (and beyond) geological landscape. For those staying more local on Friday, Laurie Hutton is kindly providing a walking tour of the city and its geology.

This conference is more than an opportunity to exchange technical insights; it is a celebration of the people who drive progress in engineering geology. We are delighted to have had the opportunity to bring together researchers, practitioners, and industry leaders to forge meaningful connections, inspire innovation, and strengthen the community that underpins this essential field.