Carbon-14 Dates from the Snowy Mountains area, Southeastern Australia, and their Interpretation

Abstract

Carbon-14 dates for fossil wood, peats, and organic soils from periglacial and glucial sites between 1100 and 2100 m in the Snowy Mountains area, southeastern Australia, are interpreted in relation to the site characteristics and the present climate. The dates indicate a widespread cold period commencing about 34,000-31,000 years ago, the effects of which apparently continued until about 15,000 and locally until about 9000 years ago; a subsequent warmer period; and a colder phase about 3000-1500 years ago. Mean annual temperatures during the first cold period are estimated to have been at least 8–10°C lower than at present, and at least 3°C lower during the cold phase of 3000-1500 years ago.