New findings show Great Barrier Reef is likely contaminated with microfibre

New research has found 86 percent of the Great Barrier Reef is likely contaminated with microfibre.

Scientists are alarmed by these findings as the contamination is linked to a high correlation in consumption of these fibres by marine organisms.

Dr Frederieke Kroon from the Australian Institute of Marine Science says the pollution is likely caused by ships and laundering of synthetic materials.

 

Queensland mango quality guide to be released in six different languages

Queensland mango farmers will be given new tools to assist international buyers who import their fruit in a bid to boost Queensland’s mango exports.

The state government plans to release a mango quality guide in six different languages using research led by Griffith University.

Minister for Agriculture Mark Furner says the manual will create better understanding, trust and trade between Queensland farmers and the Chinese market.

 

After-effects of the recent Adani coal mine protest in Brisbane CBD

Five protesters who glued themselves to a South Bank road during protests against the Adani coal mine, have been arrested and released without charge.

Over 700 protesters rallied in the CBD on Friday evening during peak hour, calling on the government to “tear up the contracts” surrounding the Adani mine.

Queensland police say the large crowd was mostly peaceful, but they had to arrest another two protesters for “breaching the peace”.

 

Police brutality surrounding Hong Kong extradition bill will not be investigated

Chinese authorities say the police brutality surrounding the mass protests against the Hong Kong extradition bill will not be investigated.

Hong Kong Justice Secretary Teresa Cheng did however, apologise for the government’s handling of the extradition bill.

Over 70 people have been reportedly injured during the protests, including two men who are in critical condition and 21 police officers.

 

Cambodia building collapse

A seven-storey building has collapsed in Cambodia killing at least 18 people and injuring at least another 24, with several in critical condition and others reportedly missing according to officials.

The Chinese building owner, the head of the construction firm and the contractor have been arrested with a Cambodian landowner also being questioned.

Environmental groups claim Queensland Government acted unlawfully

Environmental groups claim the Queensland government acted unlawfully when approving a groundwater ecosystem plan for the Adani mine.

According to state requirements, coal miners must provide definite proof about the source of an ancient desert spring linked to the ecosystem of the Adani site.

The Guardian Australia reportedly received documents from a Queensland Environmental department spokesperson suggesting authorities had softened their interpretation of the requirement.

 

South Australian entertainment sector booming

South Australia’s entertainment sector is booming in a milestone moment with several major films and TV shows set to be produced in the state.

South Australian Film Corporation executive Courtney Gibson says they have never been busier, with titles such as Stateless and a film adaptation for Mortal Kombat in site.

Ms Gibson predicts the state will soon become a post-production and visual effects hub with long-term benefits for up-and-coming South Australians.

 

Gold Coast dog attacks

Three unrelated dog attacks left a Gold Coast girl bitten on the face and another two Brisbane women with severe leg injuries last week.

The attacks have sparked concern surrounding pet safety in the home, especially for those with young children.

RSPCA spokesperson Micheal Beatty says he urges people to not leave young children unsupervised with dogs as they cannot read the dog’s body language.