Pre-and post conference excursions, one to the Bushveld Complex and one on the general Geology of KwaZulu-Natal are planned.

Bushveld Complex post-conference excursion:

Excursion leader:  Prof. Grant Cawthorn

Dates:  12- 17 September 2009

Cost: R6750 (all meals included).

Excursion description:

The excursion will visit some of the spectacular geology of the eastern limb of the Bushveld Complex, including examples of its mineral deposits. No mines will be visited, but excellent outcrops of mineralized layers are easily accessible (subject to mining company approval). Geological spectacular include: the metamorphic aureole with its andalusite deposits, chromitite layers (including Dwars River), vanadiferous magnetite layers and plugs, the Merensky Reef, the discovery site of platinum, and also early gold discovery areas.

Provisional Programme:

12^th September. Drive to Pilgrims Rest. The route will cover some of the Transvaal Supergroup sedimentary rocks and a traverse down part of the eastern escarpment.

13^th September. Visit “Three Rondawels” and Bourke’s Luck potholes; contact metamorphic rocks (andalusite deposits, sillimanite-grade, partial melting) in the aureole of the Bushveld Complex.

14^th September. Traverse layering in Lower Zone ultramafic rocks in the famous “Cameron section” of the Olifants River trough; chromitite adits and layering in the Critical Zone.

15^th September. Site of discovery of platinum (Maandagshoek), ultramafic platiniferous pipes, Upper Group 2 chromitite and Merensky Reef adits.

16^th September. Dwars River – Upper Group 1 chromitite layer; silicate layering in Main Zone; magnetitite layering in the Upper Zone.

17^th September. Return to Johannesburg. (Airport drop-off mid afternoon.)

Transport will be by coach. Accommodation in shared rooms in 2-3 star hotels (probably Royal Hotel, Pilgrim’s Rest; Gethlane Lodge, Burgersfort).

Cost R6750.00(all meals included)
Please note that accommodation will be reserved on a sharing basis

For more information, kindly contact

Prof Grant Cawthorn
Tel : (011) 717 6557
Email : grant.cawthorn@wits.co.za

Click Here to Register for the Bushveld  Complex  Post conference excursion