Many scientific fields, including the geosciences, have successfully employed machine learning to address numerous significant issues. Current studies show that the application of machine learning within the geosciences is still in its early stages, and there is a huge potential for this technique that need to be explored. This research focuses on the Late Permian Beekeeper Formation from the Perth Basin, Australia. It aims to improve our understanding of the application of machine learning to characterise subsurface rock formations. The objectives of this study are threefold: (1) to conduct cutting, crossplot, and modern machine learning analyses on a mixed carbonate-siliciclastic reservoir; (2) to compare the results from the aforementioned analyses and to interpret the electrofacies and lithofacies; and (3) to understand the degree of accuracy of the application of machine learning in the characterisation of the subsurface rock formations. Cutting, crossplotting, and modern machine learning analyses have been conducted to achieve the aim and objectives of this study. Seven electrofacies, associated with nine lithofacies, were identified within the studied data, and these were classified into carbonate-dominated facies group, siliciclastic-dominated facies group, and mixed carbonate-siliciclastic facies group. Results also show the presence of stratal and compositional mixing within the Beekeeper Formation. A combination of cutting, crossplot, and machine learning analyses can provide a better, more accurate, and more reliable interpretation of the facies of the Beekeeper Formation. This study is expected to advance our understanding of the application of machine learning in geosciences.
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