ABSTRACT
In the outer Sydney Region perhaps the most significant class of man-made fills is that resulting from the reshaping of the topography, especially in areas composed of Wianamatta Group shale or the sequences of thinly Interbedded sandstone and shale of the Narrabeen Group. The mode of formation of sites of man-made fill, emphasis must be placed on two apects the requirement for absolute cheapness of placement, or whether there Is any perceived post-placement land use. The other types of sites have a random distribution, locations being controlled either by the need to dispose of an unwanted material as cheaply as possible or the need to improve land to achieve optimum potential. In addition it must be recognised that the coastal parts of Sydney are on sandstone terrain. Extensive drainage works are nearly always essential if the fill is saturated as a result of ponded drainage and excavation is required.
