Celebrating 40 years of Ramsar leadership

This month marks 40 years since Australia listed the world’s first Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention, at Cobourg Peninsula in the Northern Territory.  “Today we’re celebrating 40 years of Australian leadership in wetland protection,” said Senator Simon Birmingham, Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment. “When Cobourg became the world’s first Ramsar site in…

Details

Volunteers recognised for 50 years of rainfall records

The outstanding contribution of two volunteers at the Bureau of Meteorology has been recognised with Rainfall Excellence Awards presented in South Australia today. “The commitment to the community shown by the Bureau of Meteorology’s volunteers makes a world of difference,” said Senator Simon Birmingham, Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment. Mr Ian Ross, of Glen Gillian…

Details

By paying off government debts we will free our children

By paying off government debts we will free our children, Adelaide Advertiser Online, 13/05/2014 Imagine for a moment that your parents die and, having plunged themselves deep into debt in their twilight years, all of their personal debt transfers to you.  Inheriting these debts may cripple your immediate aspirations. Not only could a home renovation…

Details

Water Act to undergo independent review

The Water Act is to be reviewed as part of the Abbott Government red and green tape reduction agenda and to ensure the Act is meeting its objectives. Senator Simon Birmingham, Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment, today announced the full terms of reference and members of the independent panel for the Review of the Commonwealth…

Details

Gosford’s largest stormwater harvesting project launched

Terrigal’s water supply is now more secure thanks to an Australian Government-funded project that will save approximately 80 million litres of drinking water per year. “The Australian Government has contributed $2 million to this project as part of our commitment to help major cities and towns secure water supplies through the National Urban Water and…

Details

$155 million Growth Fund to drive State’s future growth

The Australian Government’s $155 million Growth Fund will drive the development of new industries in high growth sectors in South Australia. In Adelaide Federal Industry Minister Ian Macfarlane said the Government’s review of the South Australian economy found that it remained strong and was in a good position to weather the closure of car manufacturing…

Details

Mr George Warne appointed to Murray-Darling Basin Authority

Today Mr George Warne has been appointed a part-time member of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority. “Mr Warne is highly respected across the water sector for his substantial expertise and knowledge in water and natural resource management, river operations and irrigated agriculture,” said Senator Simon Birmingham, Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment.  “Mr Warne has been appointed…

Details

A new way to look at weather in Queensland

The Bureau of Meteorology today released the full suite of MetEye services in Queensland, combining the most popular elements of the Bureau’s website in one convenient location, for easy to access, real-time weather information. “The launch of MetEye will change the way Queenslanders look at their weather,” said Senator Simon Birmingham, Parliamentary Secretary for the…

Details

Death of Henry Jones

If you could draw a picture of a quintessentially old-school fisherman and conservationist it would be of Henry Jones. Henry knew and understood the Murray Mouth, Lower Lakes and Coorong like few others.  His passion for them was infectious, his commitment knew no boundaries and his willingness to share his knowledge was of such value…

Details

Local jobs to help manage Commonwealth environmental water

The Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder is now recruiting local engagement officers to work directly with Murray-Darling Basin communities. “The officers will help ensure local knowledge and views are taken into account when considering Commonwealth environmental watering decisions,” said Senator Birmingham, Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment.  “These officers will be based on the ground and be…

Details