The Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems, is on track for a ‘grim future’ with a ‘rapid coral decline’ projected by 2050, according to a new study by researchers at the University of Queensland (UQ). However, the research offers a glimmer of hope, suggesting that parts of the reef may recover if global warming is kept below 2°C. The study utilized advanced modeling to simulate the lifecycles of various coral species, revealing that some corals are better equipped to adapt to warmer ocean temperatures, potentially aiding in the growth of new coral. Reefs situated near cooler-water currents were also found to be more resilient. The research underscores the critical importance of reducing carbon emissions to prevent a ‘near collapse’ of the reef. Dr. Yves-Marie Bozec, the lead researcher, emphasized that the study examined the ‘eco-evolutionary dynamics’ of over 3,800 individual reefs, including how corals interact and respond to warmer waters. ‘We forecast a rapid coral decline before the middle of this century regardless of the emissions scenario,’ he stated. The Great Barrier Reef, spanning over 2,300 km off Australia’s northeast coast, has endured four significant marine heatwaves between 2016 and 2022, leading to widespread coral bleaching—a process where corals expel the algae that provide them with life and color, often resulting in death. A recent report highlighted that parts of the reef experienced the largest annual decline in coral cover in nearly 40 years. Dr. Bozec noted that some reef areas ‘may partially recover after 2050, but only if ocean warming is sufficiently slow to allow natural adaptation to keep pace with temperature changes.’ He stressed that global action to reduce carbon emissions is essential to limit warming to below 2°C by 2100. Professor Peter Mumby, a co-author of the study, added that many reefs could persist under the Paris Agreement target of 2°C warming, but higher emissions would likely drive most reefs to near collapse. The study also identified more resilient areas of the reef network, suggesting that conservation efforts should focus on these strategic parts of the ecosystem.
标签： Oceania
大洋洲
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‘Australia not a bunch of old-timers – they’re an outstanding team’
As the Ashes series approaches, Australia’s cricket team is under the spotlight for its reliance on seasoned veterans, raising questions about the future of its squad. With just 16 days until the first Test, the anticipation is palpable, and the narrative is dominated by the age and experience of the Australian players. The team, led by chief selector George Bailey, boasts a wealth of talent, including Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc, who collectively have over 1,200 Test wickets. However, the squad’s average age is a point of concern, with only all-rounder Cameron Green under 30.
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Who are the players in Australia’s Ashes squad?
Australia has unveiled its squad for the opening Ashes Test against England, aiming to extend their dominance over the urn into a second decade. The team faces a significant setback as captain and pace bowler Pat Cummins will miss the first Test due to a back injury. Scott Boland is set to step in as his replacement. Tasmania’s Jake Weatherald has earned his maiden call-up and could potentially open the batting, adding a fresh dynamic to the squad. The series kicks off on November 21, with the final Test scheduled for January 4.
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Bailey defends age of Australia Ashes squad
Australia’s chief selector, George Bailey, has come under fire for his squad selection for the first Ashes Test against England, with critics pointing to the team’s aging lineup. The 15-man squad, announced on Wednesday for the Perth Test starting on 21 November, features only one player under 30—26-year-old all-rounder Cameron Green. Former captain Steve Waugh led the criticism, accusing Bailey of lacking the ‘appetite’ to make tough decisions to rejuvenate the team. Bailey, however, defended the selection, emphasizing the players’ performance and right to be chosen. ‘We’re aware of the age profile of the team,’ Bailey stated. ‘You’ve got to give due respect that the guys are performing very well.’ The squad includes seasoned players like Nathan Lyon (37), Mitchell Starc (35), and Josh Hazlewood (34), alongside uncapped players Sean Abbott (33) and Brendan Doggett (31). Opener Sam Konstas, 20, was notably dropped for the second time in 12 months, with Bailey expressing confidence in his long-term potential. Captain Pat Cummins, recovering from a back injury, was left out, with Steve Smith stepping in as skipper. Australia, the current Ashes holders, face an England team that has struggled in recent tours. The five-Test series, set to conclude on 8 January, promises high stakes and intense competition.
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Investigators board cruise ship that left woman behind on island
In a tragic turn of events, the Coral Adventurer cruise ship has become the center of a harrowing investigation after an elderly passenger was left behind on a remote Australian island and later found dead. Suzanne Rees, an 80-year-old woman from Sydney, was hiking on Lizard Island with fellow passengers when she decided to rest, breaking away from the group. Unbeknownst to her, the ship departed without her, only realizing her absence several hours later. Despite a search and rescue effort, Ms. Rees was discovered deceased the following day. The incident has prompted a joint investigation by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), Queensland Police, and the state coroner. The Coral Adventurer, operated by Coral Expeditions, was initially delayed due to mechanical issues and later canceled its 60-day cruise around Australia following the tragedy. The ship, designed to access remote coastal areas, accommodates up to 120 guests and 46 crew members. Ms. Rees’ daughter, Katherine Rees, expressed her family’s shock and sadness, emphasizing the apparent failure of care and common sense. She hopes the coroner’s inquiry will reveal what could have been done to save her mother’s life. The cruise operator has expressed deep regret and is cooperating fully with authorities while offering support to the bereaved family.
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‘Addictive’ diaries win prestigious non-fiction prize
Australian author Helen Garner has made history by winning the esteemed Baillie Gifford Prize for Non-Fiction with her collection of diaries, *How to End a Story: Collected Diaries*. This marks the first time a diary compilation has received this prestigious award. Garner’s work offers a deeply personal narrative, chronicling her life from her early days in Melbourne’s bohemian scene to her experiences as a mother in the 1970s and the dissolution of her marriage in the 1990s. Known for her previous works, including *The House of Grief* (2014), which delved into the tragic trial of Robert Farquharson, Garner has long been celebrated for her incisive storytelling and keen observational skills. The judging panel, led by Robbie Millen, unanimously selected Garner’s work, praising it as ‘a remarkable, addictive book’ that elevates the diary form to new heights. Comparisons have been drawn to the legendary *Diary of Virginia Woolf*, with critics like Rachel Cooke of *The Observer* hailing Garner’s collection as ‘the greatest, richest journals by a writer since Woolf’s.’ Garner’s win is particularly significant as it represents her first major UK-based literary accolade, following the British publication of three of her books last year. The Baillie Gifford Prize, which honors outstanding non-fiction works, awarded Garner £50,000, with the other shortlisted authors each receiving £5,000. The shortlist included notable works such as Jason Burke’s *The Revolutionists*, Richard Holmes’ *The Boundless Deep*, and Justin Marozzi’s *Captives and Companions*. Garner’s victory underscores her enduring influence and the universal appeal of her deeply introspective and evocative writing.
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Australia announces 15-member squad for first Ashes Test in Perth
Australia has unveiled its 15-member squad for the opening Ashes Test against England in Perth, with Steve Smith stepping in as captain following Pat Cummins’ injury. Travis Head has been appointed as vice-captain. The squad, announced by chairman of selectors George Bailey, aims for a balanced composition, with 14 players participating in the upcoming Sheffield Shield matches to fine-tune their form. Three newcomers—batsman Jake Weatherald and bowlers Brendan Doggett and Sean Abbott—are set to make their Test debuts, with Weatherald vying for an opening spot alongside Marnus Labuschagne and Usman Khawaja. All-rounders Cameron Green and Beau Webster, along with wicketkeeper Alex Carey and reserve Josh Inglis, complete the lineup. The bowling attack features Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, and Scott Boland. Bailey expressed optimism about Cummins’ potential return later in the series. Weatherald’s consistent performance over the past 18 months earned him a spot, with Bailey praising his complementary style. The final XI remains undecided, with Bailey emphasizing that the selection will be finalized closer to the match. Sam Konstas, who opened in the West Indies series, was omitted due to lackluster domestic form. The first Test will be held at Optus Stadium in Perth from November 21 to 25, followed by matches in Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney. England, led by Ben Stokes, announced their 16-man squad in September, featuring Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley as openers.
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Back row Scott-Young leaves Northampton
Northampton Saints’ back-row player Angus Scott-Young has announced his immediate departure from the club to return to his homeland, Australia. The 28-year-old, who joined the Saints ahead of the 2022-23 season, leaves after making 77 appearances and scoring four tries. His final match for the club was a thrilling 37-35 Premiership Rugby victory against Gloucester on October 5. Scott-Young also featured as a substitute in last season’s European Champions Cup final, where Northampton fell to Bordeaux. Born in Brisbane, Scott-Young expressed his gratitude for his time at the club but emphasized the importance of family in his decision. ‘It’s been an amazing experience, but now feels like the right time to return home,’ he stated on the club’s website. He shared that attending his brother’s wedding recently, which marked the first family reunion in seven years, deeply influenced his choice. Northampton’s Director of Rugby, Phil Dowson, praised Scott-Young for his dedication and contributions, describing him as an ‘outstanding servant’ who consistently prioritized the team and set high standards. Currently, Northampton Saints lead the Premiership table, two points ahead of reigning champions Bath after five games.
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Streamers will be made to produce Australian content
The Australian government has announced new legislation requiring major streaming platforms to allocate a minimum portion of their revenue or expenditure to locally produced content. Platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, and others with over one million subscribers will need to invest at least 10% of their local expenditure or 7.5% of their revenue in Australian drama, documentaries, arts, and educational programs. The legislation, set to be introduced to Parliament this week, aims to safeguard jobs in the acting and creative industries while ensuring Australian stories continue to thrive on global streaming services. Arts Minister Tony Burke emphasized the importance of this move, noting that while free-to-air and pay television already have local content requirements, streaming services have operated without such guarantees. The decision follows delays caused by concerns over potential conflicts with a free trade agreement with the U.S. during the Trump administration. With those concerns now resolved, the legislation has regained momentum. Industry groups like the Australian Writers Guild and Screen Producers Australia have welcomed the initiative, though streaming platforms have yet to comment. This development comes as Australia’s creative sector faces challenges, including a 30% decline in investment in feature films and television dramas during the 2023-24 financial year, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent Australian productions on Netflix, such as ‘Heartbreak High,’ ‘Territory,’ and ‘Apple Cider Vinegar,’ highlight the potential of local storytelling on global platforms.
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Sabalenka to face Kyrgios in ‘Battle of Sexes’
In a highly anticipated exhibition match, world number one Aryna Sabalenka will face off against Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios in a modern take on the iconic ‘Battle of the Sexes.’ The event is scheduled for December 28 at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, which boasts a capacity of 17,000. Sabalenka, the reigning US Open champion and a four-time Grand Slam winner, expressed her readiness for the challenge, stating, ‘I have a lot of respect for Nick and his talent, but make no mistake, I’m ready to bring my A-game.’ Kyrgios, currently ranked 652nd due to a prolonged absence from the tour following a wrist injury, welcomed the opportunity, saying, ‘When the world number one challenges you, you answer the call.’ The match has sparked mixed reactions among tennis fans. While some view it as an entertaining spectacle aimed at attracting a younger audience, others fear it could undermine women’s sports if Sabalenka loses. Kyrgios’s past controversies, including a guilty plea for assaulting an ex-girlfriend in 2023 and his association with controversial influencer Andrew Tate in 2024, have further fueled concerns about the event’s potential to perpetuate sexism. Despite these debates, Sabalenka remains unfazed, describing the match as a ‘cool idea’ and vowing to ‘kick Nick’s ass.’ The format of the match remains under discussion, with potential modifications to court size and serving rules being considered.