Last week a big week of bridge was held at the Mackay Contract Bridge Club. Week one of the Mackay Teams, Week 6 of the Nation-Wide Pairs and the two section Whitsunday Zone Pairs event. Thirty pairs over two days battled to win the Open and Novice sections of the Whitsunday Zone Pairs, with the winners of each section representing the zone in the Queensland Festival of Bridge in Brisbane in October. Terrence Sheedy & Noel Bugeia from Mackay Contract Bridge Club took out the Open Section and Sue McInnes & Deb Breeze from the Bowen Contract Bridge Club took out the Novice Section.

Weekly Results

Monday 11 March 2024 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st

Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy

1st

David Ting / Eric Goodchild

2nd

Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia

2nd

Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson

3rd

Karen Caldwell / Noel Saunders

3rd

Ming Ting / Pamela Finger

4th

Patricia Garner / Mick King

4th

Monica Darley / Carmel Brown

Tuesday Evening 12 March 2024 –5 Table One Winner Green Points

1st

Geoff Patterson / Ken Seaniger

2nd

Diane Morgan / Geoff Taylor

3rd

Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia

4th

Faye Wright / Terry Sheedy

Wednesday 13 March 2024 – Mackay Teams, Week 1 of 3 - 10 Table Mitchell Red Points

1st

Noel Bugeia Team

2nd

Joy Robinson Team

3rd

Terry Sheedy Team

4th

Victor Mason Team

Thursday Evening 14 March 2024 – 6 Table One Winner

1st

Ann Whitmore / Sandra Morris

2nd

Patricia Garner / Jan Harris

3rd

Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

4th

Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy

4th

Frances Brown / Jewel Schmidt

6th

Kean Seaniger / Robert Carless

Friday 15 March 2024 – NWP Week 6 of 24 - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1st

Josie Cowley / Victor Mason

1st

Ming Ting / David Ting

2nd

Joyce Deguara / Toni Large

2nd

Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

3rd

Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

3rd

Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson

4th

Debra Goodchild / Lorna Shuttlewood

4th

Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

Saturday 16 March 2024 / Sunday 17 March 2024 – 2024 Whitsundy Zone Pairs – 15 Table Red Points

Section A

Secton B (Novice)

1st

Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

1st

Deb Breeze / Sue McInnes

2nd

Eric Goodchild / David Ting

2nd

Sandra Morris / Ann Whitmore

3rd

Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

3rd

Griffin Bancroft / Jill Brabon

4th

Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright

4th

Graham Seaborne / Jane Seaborne

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Photo Credit: Mackay Contract Bridge Club (Facebook)

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Lorna (right) with Whitsunday Zone Winners Sue, Terry, Deb & Noel

St Patricks Day Shenanigans

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Sarina State High School 2024 Mocktail

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Over sixty enthusiastic runners gathered for an invigorating Sunday morning run in West Mackay. The scratch start race kicked off at Club Secretary Julie’s house, sending runners from the Whibley’s backyard reserve towards the Mackay Base Hospital and onto the scenic Catherine Freeman Trail. Those that tackled the twelve-kilometre continued towards Forgan Smith Bridge before returning for the homeward trek.

Luke Leven had a sensational twelve-kilometre run, bolting from the starter’s gun with fellow junior runner, Jared Mackie who sprinted the entire course with Luke being the eventual victor. Third placed George Hannaford was only ten seconds behind Jared with Greame Harris closing in fast ahead of Shane Donnollan, Ashley Miles, Brad Fraser, John Rae, Matthew Bampton, Darrin Pullen and Robin Stinson. 

Alana Knezevic had an exciting run placing second outright as well as first for the girls ahead of Naomi Ballard and Lily Leven, all clocking under sixty minutes. Mel Esau, Glynis Forse, Rhiann Massey, Emily Hayles, Carmel Mahon, Emma Johnson and Mel Harris ran well to round out the top ten ladies.

Five-kilometre female winner, Millie Bishop outpaced the field to finish one-minute clear of Judy Zahn and Jo Hughes. Lauren Connor, Leanne Connor, Kim Saron, Katrina Ogilvie and Natasha Joynson joined them in quick succession at they crossed the finish line. 

This Sunday’s Club event commences at 7am from Cape Hillsborough National Park, Risely Parade. The six-kilometre and 10-kilometre Hillsborough Turtle Trail will begin with handicap points up for grabs. New runners will need to be registered online by Thursday 5pm. Non-members are most welcome to join in for a $10 race day fee, members pay $2. Everyone is welcome to stay for a free post run sausage sizzle and zooper doopers.

Introducing a new running event - The Great Barrier Reef Arena Gift, which is set to take place on March 23, 2024. This inaugural event will bring together Australia’s finest running talent across various races, genders, ages, and distances. 

For more information, visit the official GBRA Gift website or contact Harrup Park, Great Barrier Reef Arena on (07) 4944 0000.

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Contributed By Janelle Tilse

Images Supplied

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Mackay Road runners lovely ladies left to right Millie, Alana, Lauren, Glynis, Emma, Mel, Leanne, Natasha, Jo, Hostess Julie, Kim, Mel and Jan welcome former Mackay Road Runner, Bernadette Forsyth (far right) back to Mackay for a week after being based for three years in Scotland.

Mackay Road Runners Club President Brendan Bishop (back left) announced race briefing to approximately sixty runners including Craig and Darrin (back row); Matthew, Andrew and Robin (front row).

Len Haworth marginally leads David Isbister in the 5km Whibley’s Wander at the 3km water stop.

Twelve-kilometre competitors, Naomi and Sacha enjoy the post-race refreshments at the Whibley’s Wander.

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Mayoral Candidate Ry Collins steamed out in front as soon as the count began on Saturday, becoming the clear leader and commanding the most votes within the community.

As of the time of writing, 79.64 per cent of the votes had been counted by the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ), with Collins claiming 47.52 per cent, Phil Batty 25.35 per cent, Peter Hood 14.54 per cent and Richard Evans 12.60 per cent.

Within the coming days, postal votes will be counted and preferences allocated, with Collins expected to declare shortly after.

Continued on page 3.

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Ry Collins and his wife Mel have been celebrating this week. Photo credit: Norina Jane

New Face At The Helm

Following Saturday’s Local Government Elections, the Whitsunday Regional Council is about to welcome a new leader, Ry Collins, who is currently holding a significant lead, his Mayoral tenure expected to be announced within the week.

Previously known for his integral role as Chief Executive Officer of Bowen Gumlu Growers Association, Collins has a wealth of knowledge in advocacy, liaising with Minsters and sitting on boards.

He is looking forward to bringing these skills and experience to his new role as Mayor.

At just 44 years old, Collins is the youngest of all the Mayoral Candidates, and will be one of the youngest Mayor’s in the region’s history.

“My skills are current and active,” he said.

“From advocacy to working on state-wide issues – I have been doing all of this already and I’ve got a lot of horsepower, a lot of drive to get up every morning and fight for our region.”

Excitement was definitely in overdrive for Collins and his team of over 20 volunteers on polling day last Saturday, with many of them out in the hot sun for over 10 hours.

“I can’t thank the volunteers enough, some of them have been with me the whole time and inspired me to keep going,” he shared.

“The results we’ve seen have been a lot to do with the volunteers, having the right people contributed to the result.”

After voting stations closed, Collins went to Whitsunday Christian College to witness the count, and by 9pm that evening they “started to see some really good numbers”.

Sadly, however, with every winner there are those who are unsuccessful.

The closest candidate was Phil Batty who led his campaign with passion and dedication.

“Thank you to the people that voted for me and the people that helped me, I kept my integrity and the result is what it is,” Mr Batty said.

Candidate Richard Evans also led his campaign with integrity and passion, determined to help create change within the community.

He now requests the community “stop complaining” about the systemic issues within Council.

“You had the opportunity for accountability and change and you rejected it for the status quo,” he said.

The first Council meeting which will be officiated by the new Mayor is due to take place on April 27.

In the lead-up to this Collins will receive a week’s direct training and will spend time getting to know his new role.

He is “looking forward to spending time with all the Councillors and empowering them in their roles” and meeting with the CEO of Council to find out how he can best support him.

During his first 100 days, Collins will be “meeting with stakeholders and developing a level of prioritisation around issues”.

His focus will be on advocating for flood-proofing on Hamilton Plains, environment compliance, creating action plans and timelines and electing a new Deputy Mayor.

Fundamentally, Collins wants to make sure Council is accessible and has a strong internal culture, which will sure to have positive effects on the entire community.

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Ry Collins is expected to announce as Mayor of Whitsunday Regional Council over the coming days. Photo credit: Norina Jane

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Hi Everyone,

I don’t know about the rest of you, but I feel like I have lived and breathed the local government elections over the past four weeks.

Attending lively community forums, chatting with candidates on a weekly basis and running extensive coverage in the paper – by the time Saturday rolled around I was exhausted!

A huge congratulations to Ry Collins for striking out in the lead and looking more than likely to claim the title of our next Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor.

I met with him and his wife, Mel, earlier in the week and it was great to see both his enthusiasm and sincerity – he genuinely wants what’s best for the community and I think his positive, collaborative attitude will be a real asset.

I also spoke with the new Councillors this week and congratulations goes to both Clay Bauman and John Finlay.

When I was chatting with John, he thanked me for the coverage and said it was “good fun” and that he’d really enjoyed the experience.

Firstly, it’s always great to feel appreciated for all the hard work we do at the paper and secondly, I was so glad he’d enjoyed it all!

For those of you that don’t know, over the past five weeks we’ve been running a series of Q&As with candidates – asking them about their views on divisive issues, but also general interest questions so the community could get to know them better.

This coverage has given each of them a platform and we hope it has also given you the opportunity to make an informed decision at the polling booths.

This week in the paper we celebrate the success of the winning candidates, but let’s also take a minute to commend all the brave and bold individuals who stood up for election in the first place.

It must take some guts to put yourself out there in the public arena and I think everyone ran a good race.

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Rach

Quote of the Week: “Win as if you are used to it, lose as if you enjoyed it for a change” (Ralph Waldo Emerson)

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Two local bowlers, Andrew Butler and John Matterson will be feeling the sunshine on their head this week, having shaved their heads for World’s Greatest Shave over the weekend.

John had the idea of participating in the World’s Greatest Shave whilst growing his hair out on an 83-day sailing trip with his wife, Juanita.

He had been growing it out for six years when he was diagnosed with monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis (MBL).

MBL is a rare condition that can develop into chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

Considering John wanted to donate before being diagnosed, he thought there would be no better time than now.

John has raised over $1500 for his World’s Greatest Shave and Andrew has raised between $400 to $500.

Juanita has jokingly asked her husband if he will donate his hair again once it has grown out again and she said, “he hasn’t confirmed and hasn’t denied”.

To donate to the World’s Greatest Shave, you need to shave off 30 centimetres of hair, so that will be John’s next goal.

Juanita encourages people to donate to the Leukemia foundation.

If you wish to donate head to worldsgreatestshave.com.

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The two men getting their hair cut over the weekend. Photo supplied

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Respected local leader, Clay Bauman, is looking likely to return as Division 2 Councillor following Saturday’s election where he struck out ahead in a very tight race.

As of the time of writing, Mr Bauman was in the lead having received 58.54 per cent of the votes compared to his opponent, Tony Price who had commanded 41.46 per cent.

Having initially been voted in as Division 2 Councillor in the bi-election 18 months ago, Mr Bauman is thrilled to be re-elected and delighted to start his first full-term in the role.

“It seems like it’s in the bag!” he said on Tuesday.

“It has been very rewarding to meet a number of people at the polling booths who said I have already helped them, and I look forward to doing more of the same.”

“Previously, I had one year to do as much as I could and now I have four years!”

With a State Government election this year, Mr Bauman is particularly excited about lobbying for promises from both sides to fast track projects in the region.

In particular, he wants to see the much-anticipated Hamilton Plains flood-proofing come to fruition and the Shute Harbour Stage two development which will see a new boat ramp and 200-space carpark at the site.

He is also keen to work with the upcoming budget and wants to investigate further the need for a new Airlie Beach Town Plan.

“I am looking forward to discussing whether it’s time to start on a new town plan that is more in-tune with community sentiment,” he said.

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Division 2 Councillor, Clay Bauman, at the polling station over the weekend. Photo supplied

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Well-known and well-liked Bowen local, John Finlay, is celebrating this week following incredible results at the polling booths on Saturday.

At the time of going to print 81.96 per cent of the votes had been counted for the Division 6 Councillor Candidate position.

John Finlay struck a significant lead, with 72.51 per cent of the votes compared to his opponent, David Paddon who received 27.49 per cent of the vote.

Mr Finlay said he is “absolutely honoured” and thanks the Bowen community for supporting him.

“This role is more than just being a Councillor, it is about being a conduit for the community,” he said.

“I am looking forward to making sure the communication flows both ways and that reference groups are all drawn upon to create the best outcomes for all.”

An accountant for most of his life and a previous CEO of Council, Mr Finlay’s experience is vast, and he is looking forward to using his financial background to create strong financial and asset management plans with Council.

He is also passionate about future proofing our region, making sure we have adequate sewerage and water supply to cater to the significant population growth.

He is also focused on housing development, with so many new jobs arising in Bowen, he wants to see housing meet the influx of workers.

He is also looking forward to tackling the Bowen Harbour project and making headway so that Bowen has a port of a similar standard to Airlie Beach.

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Mayor Julie Hall is signing off this week, bidding farewell to the job she loves, but proud of her dedicated efforts which have delivered more connection within the community over her short but productive tenure.

Her shock decision not to run for re-election as Mayor of the Whitsundays surprised many, but Mayor Hall is confident in her decision.

Although sad to be leaving such an important role within the community, she says she is excited for the next challenge, and looking forward to finding a new venture that continues to inspire her and is dedicated to helping others.

Firstly, she will travel down to South Australia to spend time with her father who has been in poor health, but afterwards she will return to the region.

Remembered as the ‘People’s Mayor’, there are many key projects and initiatives that have made positive impacts within the community.

“My legacy is the Community Engagement Strategy which should ensure that the people of the Whitsundays are always consulted on the direction of their towns,” said Mayor Hall.

She is also proud of helping to drive the success of Whitsunday Coast Airport, passionate about finding a solution to fix the Shute Harbour Boat Ramp and proud to have raised $100,000 at the Mayor’s Ball to support Whitsunday Housing and RACQ CQ Rescue.

“I will really miss this role and the opportunity to continue to be the voice of the community,” she said.

“It was an absolute honour and a privilege to serve as your mayor and I wish the new Council all the best.”

Mayor Julie Hall, remembered as the People’s Mayor. Photo supplied

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Avid sailors from across the country are set to enjoy an entirely green experience at Airlie Beach Race Week which is due to take place at the Whitsunday Sailing Club in August.

An announcement was made this week said that the entire marina village will be off grid during the event.

Whitsunday Sailing Club President, Terry Archer expressed his enthusiasm about the event going green.

“We operate in a sport, that’s powered by the wind, so to have our onshore operations powered by the sun is just a perfect fit,” said Terry.

Supplying the green energy are Mobile Power Trailers.

They are proudly Australian and provide portable power solutions with their advanced solar and battery trailers.

Managing Director, Adam Janczyk said  “We're going to bring six patented trailers up, we're going to have about 110 kilowatts worth of power here, 130 kilowatts worth of battery storage. And it's just going to be run from the sun.”

“The perfect thing is, you guys go out there and sail in the beautiful Whitsundays, and everything's powered by the wind out there. And then you can come in here and be powered by the sun!

“So, we're very proud to be part of it. and we thank Terry and the club for letting us come and we want to be at the forefront of the green initiative.

“We're hoping this will set a trend for other regattas and more big companies to start making the green transition.”

It’s not just the Airlie Race Week that will be green, Adam also ensures the trucks used to transport the trailers are completely green and battery operated.

“I wanted to show that solar can be trustworthy and it can work,” he explained.

“We're here to show people that we're ready to move into action and make it actually happen.”

It’s not just Adam’s passion for green energy bringing him to Airlie Beach Race Week, he also participates in the event regularly.

“I not only wanted to register a yacht and sail in the race week, I wanted to make a difference,” said Adam.

Airlie Beach Race Week is taking place between the 8-15 of August 2024 and registrations are open now.

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Caption: Whitsunday Sailing Club President Terry Archer and Managing Director of Mobile Power Trailers, Adam Janczyk are excited to welcome an off-grid Marina Village feel to this years’ Airlie Beach Race Week. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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The 24th Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival is set to take place later this year and a host of exciting special guests are due to attend the event.

Olympic swimming legend Susie O’Neill will attend and take the role of Swim Ambassador for the weekend.

During her swimming career, Susie won two Olympic Gold medals, one in the in 200 metre butterfly and the second in the 200 metre freestyle.

Also in attendance will be the Voice of Triathlon both here in Australia and Internationally, Pete Murray, who will be the festival MC.

“Our Professional field will be the strongest ever with a host of female and male Professional Triathlete Ambassadors with Olympic and Commonwealth Games under their belts,” said, triathlon Festival Director, Michael Kimpton.

"Triathlon Queensland have also endorsed our race as the NQ Club Championships and the aim of our very small (seven person) but hard-working committee is to continue to run this event as a not-for-profit race and reinvest all sponsorship into growing the event.

“Our aim is to make the 2024 Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival a hallmark event for our region, attracting competitors and their families to stay and play in the amazing Whitsundays. 

“The Triathlon Festival is not just a race; it's a race experience like no other, set against the stunning backdrop of the Great Barrier Reef.”

The triathlon differs from others, offering a variety of different stages.

It offers an Olympic distance, Sprint, Enticer, Junior triathlons and a range of ocean swim distances.

There is also the popular Junior Events which attracted hundreds of competitors, family and friends last year.

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1: Olympic Gold Medallist, Susie O’Neill, is the Swim Ambassador for the Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival. Photo supplied

2: Hundreds attended the Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival last year. Photo credit: Korupt Vision

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It’s been over 20 years since the last Airlie Beach Cricket Club played a game of cricket.

Now, with a newly launched committee and a dedicated funding stream, the club has been re-formed and it is aiming to create better pathways for youngsters to get started in local cricket.

Club President Brett Simpson said current juniors play in Proserpine, but once they surpass the under-15’s level, they are only able to participate socially.

There is no access to higher levels of competition, and this is something Airlie Beach Cricket Club is looking to change.

“The new club will create a pathway for the juniors in the region to step up to the next level and possibly even Queensland level,” said Brett.

Aside from developing young cricket players, the new Airlie Beach Cricket Club is more conveniently located for families living in the Greater Airlie Beach Area.

“Parents don’t have to travel half an hour up the road to bring their kids to training,” explained Brett.

Airlie Beach Cricket Club is currently in talks to have their home ground located at the Whitsunday Sports Park in Jubilee Pocket.

The new cricket team is planning to establish next season and the committee is encouraging local cricketers, including all juniors, women and men to come forward and express their interest.

Geoff Teys, Cricket Australia’s General Manager, Government Relations, Infrastructure and Community Cricket said he is excited to welcome the new team.

"Cricket Australia and Queensland Cricket is thrilled about the establishment of the new Airlie Beach Cricket Club, reflecting the burgeoning interest in cricket across regional Queensland,” he said.

“The rapid growth of Cricket Blast programs, along with a remarkable 30 per cent surge in girls cricket participation statewide, underscores the sport's increasing popularity.

“The success of the Brisbane Heat WBBL side in Mackay has been instrumental in driving this growth, particularly among girls.

“We are genuinely excited about the potential of this new club, its programs, and the infrastructure development it promises.

“The enthusiastic support and engagement from local council and stakeholders further fuel our optimism for the future of cricket in Airlie Beach."

For more information, please contact the ‘Airlie Beach Cricket Club’ Facebook Page.

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Returning to the region she loves to perform in, a single event in front of a crowd of just 100 people, Superjesus front woman Sarah McLeod, will blow up the stage at this intimate and scenic setting.

Booked to play at Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant, tickets are selling fast for this exclusive event which not only promises stunning views across the Coral Sea, but also the opportunity to get up close and mingle with Aussie rock royalty.

This special show will feature stripped back versions of Sarah’s solo catalogue along with acoustic versions of her Superjesus classics.

She has also promised to make sure all crowd favourites are included, especially covers that she is very well known for like House Of The Rising Sun.

Sarah says she is excited to return to the region she loves.

“The Whitsundays are like my second home, I love it up there. I spent so much of my youth on Hamilton Island because my Dad lived there for 10 years,” she shared.

“We are so lucky to have it in our backyard and I scoot up whenever I have the chance.”

Local talented musician, Josiah, is Sarah’s support act on the night.

This highly respected artist has been hand selected to open the show and will be an incredible addition.

Tickets are just $50 per person and are selling fast, quickly approaching its capacity of 100 people for the event.

Tickets include a glass of champagne on arrival and canapes from 6.30 – 8.30pm, and throughout the evening they will hear stories of Sarah’s incredible music career.

They will also be able to interact and mingle with one of Australia’s most well-known rockstars.

WHAT: Intimate Evening with Sarah McLeod

WHERE: Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant

WHEN: Saturday 30th Marc

TICKETS: $50 buy tickets at www.whisperginbar.com

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1:

Sarah McLeod loves coming to the Whitsundays to perform. Photo credit: Cherrie Hughes

2:

Sarah has been to Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant several times and loves the vibe. Photo supplied

3: Legendary performer Sarah McLeoad from Superjesus

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Bowen youth are being asked to design their dream jetty as part of an art competition being held by North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP).

NQBP CEO Brendan Webb said the competition is a chance for children to create artwork to represent their ideas for a future Bowen Jetty.

The Design Your Dream Jetty Competition is open to children living in Bowen with prizes available in three categories:

High School Category

·         Winner – $150 EFTPOS card

·         Encouragement Award – $100 EFTPOS card

Upper Primary School Category (Year 4 to Year 6) – A4 size only

·         Winner – $100 EFTPOS card

·         Encouragement Award – $75 EFTPOS card

Lower Primary School Category (Prep to Year 3) – A4 size only 

·         Winner – $75 EFTPOS card

·         Encouragement Award – $50 EFTPOS card

Submissions open at 9am on 22 March 2024 and close 4pm 10 April 2024.

The competition is part of the government port authority’s community-led project to develop a concept design for the Bowen Jetty. 

“We’re looking for big ideas from local young people that will leave a lasting legacy for the whole community for generations to come,” Mr Webb said.

“We hope to see from the artworks what young people think is important for their jetty over the next 100 years.”

Mr Webb said acknowledging heritage, public amenities and the opportunity for recreational activities will be core considerations in the design.

Please review the 2024 Design Your Dream Jetty Competition Terms and Conditions before submitting your artwork.

Eligible entrants can submit their artwork with their submission form to:

   • Their school in Bowen (before the start of school holidays);

   • Whitsunday Regional Council Customer Service Centre/Bowen Library at 67 Herbert Street;

   • Post to: Design your Dream Jetty Competition, PO Box 3340 North Mackay QLD 4740; or

   • Scan and email to: bowenwharf@nqbp.com.au

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The Great Barrier Reef is amidst its fifth widespread coral bleaching event in just eight years, aerial surveys have revealed.

The surveys, conducted by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), observed over 300 reefs between Cape Melville north of Cooktown to just north of Bundaberg and confirmed the event.

Reef Authority Chief Scientist Dr Roger Beeden said the results of these surveys are consistent with the patterns of heat stress that have built up over summer.

“The results are consistent with what we have seen with above average sea surface temperatures across the Marine Park for an extended period of time,” Dr Beeden said.

“Aerial surveys of the Reef have revealed prevalent shallow water coral bleaching on most surveyed reefs.

“It is important to note, that the heat stress has not been even across the Reef, and the coral bleaching observed is variable.

“Monitoring the health of the Reef is a year-round effort for the Reef Authority, and it’s critical for us to understand what is happening on the Reef so we can target our management actions to protect the Reef and strengthen its resilience.

“Climate change is the greatest threat to the Great Barrier Reef, and coral reefs globally.”

AIMS Senior Research Scientist Dr Neal Cantin said that the aerial surveys provide a visual indication of the extent of bleaching.

However, assessing the severity to coral colonies requires in-water surveys.

“Aerial surveys are a crucial tool for a reef ecosystem as large as the Great Barrier Reef and show that this coral bleaching event is widespread, or what is commonly called a mass coral bleaching event,” Dr Cantin said.

“We now need to combine the spatial coverage captured from the air with in-water surveys to assess the severity of coral bleaching in deeper reef habitats across the different regions of the Marine Park.

“We will continue to conduct in-water observations with our research teams and management partners.”

The Reef Authority will continue to work closely with research and other science partners, Traditional Owners, and the tourism industry to monitor conditions on the Reef.

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