The Australian wilderness holds a lot of mysteries. The unforgiving climate is home to a number of species that you wouldn’t likely enjoy an encounter with, and the temperatures and ecology are so inhospitable that even a day trip can be quite a challenge.

But recently, researchers from Curtin University have braved the conditions to conduct research on The Pinnacles at Nambung National Park, to settle the long-standing debate around the origin of the unusual iron nuggets situated there.

And their research has done more than just put an end to the old wives tales surrounding the structures. The team have also used their date to provide the scientific community with new insights into the Earth’s changing climate and landscape.

The study, which was recently published in the academic journal Science Advances, demonstrates that impressive rock formations in Western Australia were formed as a result of a change in the Australian climate.

Dr Matej Lipar, the lead author on the study, explained in a statement that the structures are a kind of iconic geological structure known as a karst. They were created around 100,000 years ago during a particularly wet period in Australian climatic history, by the extreme amount of water actually causing rocks to dissolve:

“Karst landscapes, like those in Nambung National Park, are found globally and serve as sensitive indicators of environmental change. Studying them within an accurate timeline helps us understand how Earth’s geological systems respond to climate shifts.

We found this period was locally the wettest in the past half-million years, distinct from other regions in Australia and far removed from Western Australia’s current Mediterranean climate. An abundance of water during this time caused the limestone to dissolve, forming the distinctive pillars of the Pinnacles and creating the ideal environment for the iron nodules to develop.”

While this research has helped geologists and Australians alike to finally understand how and why these incredible natural structures exist, the findings are actually much further-reaching in their impact.

By examining the compounds – including helium, uranium, and thorium – that were trapped within the iron of the structures, the scientists were able to reliably understand and date particular moments of change in the Australian climate. In particular, the location of the helium gave more specific information on the wet period.

While this is interesting to our understanding of the past, it is also key to our knowledge and preparation for the challenges facing our own environment and ecosystems during the current climate crisis.

In the statement, Associate Professor Milo Barham – co-author of the study – explained just how much of a difference this could make:

“This new knowledge will enhance our understanding of global environments and ecosystems, helping us prepare for, and mitigate the impacts of, a warming planet. This research not only advances scientific knowledge but also offers practical insights into climate history and environmental change, relevant to anyone concerned about our planet’s present and future.”

It is just incredible that while these impressive iron structures hold secrets of our past, they could also be the key to our future.

If you think that’s impressive, check out this story about a “goldmine” of lithium that was found in the U.S. that could completely change the EV battery game.