What’s happening?
Six seismic rapid deployment kits are being installed across the Sunshine Coast region after the M5.6 earthquake near Kilkivan on Saturday, 16 August 2025. The exact locations are still to be confirmed.
More than 24,000 people reported shaking to Earthquakes@GA. In the first hours after the tremor, no measurable aftershocks were logged.
Why it matters
The monitoring kits detect both small and large ground movements, producing data that will be published on Earthquakes@GA for public access.
Local Impact
Four minor aftershocks have since occurred. The kits will allow accurate recording of their magnitudes and locations.
By the Numbers
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M5.6 earthquake happened on 16 August 2025
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24,000+ shaking reports submitted
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6 seismic kits rolling out this week
Zoom In
“These aftershock kits will actually help us to locate the little aftershocks that are happening,” said Seismologist Dr Michelle Salmon.
She explained the kits contain a seismometer, accelerometer, solar panels and 4G connectivity. Seismometers measure tiny ground motions, while accelerometers capture larger movements.
Dr Salmon added, “When we measure all of those aftershocks it helps us to find the fault that has actually broken in this particular event.”
She noted, “One thing you should know about the kits, they don’t cause earthquakes. They just are silently monitoring what’s going on in the ground.”
Dr Michelle Salmon, Geoscience Australia Seismologist: Watch VIDEO.
Zoom Out
Once installed, the kits will start delivering data that can be used by scientists and emergency services.
What to look for next
Aftershock details will be available on the Earthquakes@GA website once the kits are operational.
