This student-run conference is an initiative of the Geological Society of Australia (GSA), who support the event, along with a network of industry partners. It is attended by students and staff from earth science research and teaching institutions throughout Queensland.

The conference is an annual event that allows undergraduate, Honours, Masters and PhD students to present their research to the local scientific community; to gain experience in communicating their research findings through oral and poster presentations; to promote their talents to future employers; to discover areas of research at other universities, or departments; and to meet and network with new people within the earth sciences field.

GESSS-Q attracts over 100 delegates from Queensland Universities, local industry leaders, government leaders and geological society representatives.