How Deep Are Water Wells? Understanding Deep Wells in Australia

Water Bore Drilling | 0 comments

harry hensen

Written by Sam

Feb, 2025

G’day! I’m Harry, founder of AquaBore Drilling, and I’ve spent years helping people across Northern NSW and Southern QLD access clean, reliable groundwater. One of our happy customers recently captured a remarkable video showing the moment our bore drilling rig hit water at a depth of 75m on their property. This video is a fantastic demonstration of the drilling process and the cutting-edge equipment we use.

In this article, I’ll break down the video highlights, explain the rig in action, and dive into how deep water wells typically are, with a special focus on the customer’s experience.

How Deep Are Water Wells
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Seeing the excitement when we hit water at 75m is what makes this work so rewarding. It’s a game-changer for properties in rural areas.” – Harry, Aqua Bore Drilling

The Video Walkthrough: Reaching Water at 75m

In the video, our customer takes you on a step-by-step tour of the bore drilling process, showing:

  • The powerful hydraulic rotary drill in action, cutting through layers of soil and rock.

  • How the mud pump system efficiently removes debris from the borehole.

  • The precise moment when water was struck at a depth of 75m, marking a successful drilling operation.

This video perfectly illustrates how our advanced water bore drilling rig works and why expertise matters when drilling a deep well.

What is a Water Well?

A water well, or as we call them, a water bore, is a structure created to access underground water. It’s drilled into an aquifer—a layer of water-bearing rock—to provide a steady supply of water for irrigation, household use, or livestock.

“Think of a well as a personal gateway to one of the earth’s most valuable resources.” – Harry, AquaBore Drilling

How Deep Are Water Wells Typically?

In Australia, the depth of water wells can vary significantly based on the location and geology:

  • Shallow Wells: 10m to 30m, commonly found in areas with a high water table.

  • Intermediate Wells: 30m to 70m, often drilled for household use.

  • Deep Wells: 70m to 150m or more, necessary in areas with lower water availability or drier conditions.

The video highlights the challenges and triumphs of drilling to a depth of 75m, showcasing the precision and technology required.

What is Considered a Deep Well?

A “deep well” generally refers to a bore that extends 70m or more below the surface. These wells are designed to access deeper aquifers, which are often more reliable during drought conditions.

“Deep wells aren’t just about depth; they’re about reaching the best quality water in your area.” – Harry, AquaBore Drilling

Factors Affecting Well Depth

1. Geological Conditions

The type of rock, soil, and sediment layers in your area play a significant role. Hard rock formations require deeper drilling to reach water-bearing layers.

2. Water Table Levels

The water table is the level at which groundwater is found. It varies depending on rainfall, climate, and nearby water usage. Areas with lower water tables often require deeper wells.

3. Usage Requirements

The purpose of the well affects its depth. For example:

  • Irrigation wells need to reach high-yield aquifers.

  • Household wells can be shallower but must ensure steady supply year-round.

Why Are Deep Wells Necessary?

Deep wells are often essential for:

  • Drought-prone areas where shallow aquifers dry up.

  • Higher water quality as deeper aquifers are less likely to be contaminated.

  • Increased yield to support large-scale irrigation or livestock.

How Do We Determine the Right Depth?

At AquaBore Drilling, we use advanced hydrogeological surveys to pinpoint the depth and location of underground water sources. This involves:

  • Analysing geological maps

  • Reviewing bore logs from nearby wells

  • Conducting test drilling if needed

“We don’t guess the depth; we calculate it for precision and efficiency.” – Harry, AquaBore Drilling

The Process of Drilling a Deep Well

Step 1: Site Assessment

We evaluate your property to determine the best drilling location. Learn more about site assessments.

Step 2: Drilling

Our hydraulic rigs drill through rock and soil layers to reach the aquifer. As shown in the video, this process requires precision and expertise.

Step 3: Casing Installation

We install PVC or steel casing to stabilise the borehole.

Step 4: Pump Installation

We fit a submersible pump to bring water to the surface. Read about our pump systems.

FAQs About Water Well Depths

1. How deep are water wells in Australia?

Wells can range from 10m to over 150m, depending on the region and water availability. Learn about well depths in your area.

2. What is considered a deep well?

A deep well typically exceeds 70m and is designed to access deeper, more reliable aquifers.

3. How do you know how deep to drill?

We use hydrogeological surveys and test drilling to determine the optimal depth for your property.

4. Are deeper wells better?

Deeper wells often provide higher-quality water and are more reliable during dry seasons.

5. How much does it cost to drill a deep well?

Costs vary based on depth, geology, and location. Contact AquaBore Drilling for a free quote.

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