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Irian Jaya Earthquake

A large earthquake occurred today in Irian Jaya.

The earthquake of magnitude 7.3 occurred at 2.25 UT time (1.25 pm ESST).

The event occurred 95 km west of Enarotali, Irian Jaya, Indonesia and was felt in Darwin and Cairns. The earthquake was shallow occurring at approximately 33 km depth.

"So far we have no recorded damage," said Geoscience Australia seismologist Dr Mark Leonard. "This region is one of the most seismically active regions in the world as it is where the Asian, Australian and Pacific tectonic plates meet in a series of complicated faults"

For more information call the Geoscience Australia Duty Seismologist Dr Mark Leonard on (02) 6249 9699 or the Media Hotline (24 hour) 1800 882 035.

The Geoscience Australia Earthquake Information line is open 24/7: Freecall 1800 655 739.

For a list of the most recent earthquakes or to report a felt event visit the Geoscience Australia website - http://www.ga.gov.au/bin/listQuakes.