Untitled The Great Barrier Reef Overview: Off of the coast of Queensland in Northeastern Australia, lies the Great Barrier Reef, one of the great natural wonders of the world. Stretching some 1250 miles from the northern tip to the southern tip, the Great Barrier Reef is home to nearly 500 different types of reef building corals. The Concise Oxford Dictionary defines a reef as a ridge of rock, shingle, or sand at or just above or below the surface of the water. This definition includes the two major features of coral reef, the first is that they are composed of rock in the form of limestone, and the second feature is that they never extend very far above sea level. The tops of coral reefs are exposed to air but only in very short intervals which occur during times of low tides ("Coral"). Coral reefs, as the name implies, have corals living on their surface, but these are not the only living organisms growing on coral reefs. The major part of a coral reef is nonliving limestone. The living plants and animals associated with coral reefs constitute only a thin layer on the surface. Coral reefs vary greatly in shape and size.

Some stretch only a few meters across, in lagoon reefs, to over ten kilometers long in some wall or platform reefs. Coral reefs consist of consolidated limestone debris, and, once established, tend to grow both outwards and upwards when the plants and animals living on their surface are able to flourish. The life and death processes of these organisms result in a steady contribution of their skeletal remains to the structure of the reef This is especially significant in the tropic seas where plants and animals tend to grow rapidly (Buddemeier, 1976). Also, tropic seas contain large amounts of limestone which is used by reef-forming organisms to construct their shells and skeletons which upon death accumulate to form reefs. Corals constitute the major building blocks in reefs. It is the coral-zooxanthellae association which enables corals to produce limestone in a very efficient manner. However, it is important to realize that corals are not always necessarily going to be the dominant organism on reefs. Upon close investigation of reef rock, it is found that coral skeletons are not the only component.

The corals, along with larger mollusks, provide the bulk of a structure that includes sand-sized fragments of calcareous plants, Foraminifera, and other organisms. Coral reefs may also possess large areas that are completely void of living coral, which is usually the result of unfavorable living conditions (Patton, 1976). Nevertheless, on most reefs of the Great Barrier Reef, the living corals are the most abundant animal, with the genus Acropora being the most dominant. Coral skeletons make up varying percentages of reef rock. These skeletons range from the fast growing Acropora whose branches average I centimeter to massive Porites, where a single colony may be several meters across. All Scleractinia and the limestone secreting species of hydrozoans contribute to the formation of reefs. The skeletons of dead corals are transported and accumulated by water movement to be cemented into the structure of the reef by calcareous plants. Algae are marine plants whose role in the formation and maintenance of coral reefs is almost as important as the corals themselves. In some places the role of plants may even be greater than that of the corals.

There are many types of algae found on coral reefs, but the most important in reef formation are the calcareous algae. Calcareous secreting algae have the ability to produce limestone in the form of an encrustation over the reef, which acts as a cement, binding together loose fragments of debris to form a hard tough surface. This surface is especially characteristic of the windward areas of a reef where wave action is most violent; here the algae give the reef surface a smooth pavement-like texture of a pink, purple, or light brown color. If coral skeletons could be considered the bricks that make up a reef, the calcareous algae could be looked at as the cement that holds these bricks together. Another plant that is very important in the formation of coral reefs is the Halimeda. This plant too produces great quantities of calcareous fragments. This genus contains numerous species which produce limestone as a thin outer layer over their fleshy leaf-like segments ("Coral Reefs"). This limestone becomes incorporated into the structure of the reef upon the death of the plant, and in some areas, sand made up primarily of Halimeda fragments is common.

Origin of the Great Barrier : A reef begins to form when a shallow area of the sea floor within the tropics can provide suitable conditions to encourage and support colonization by benthic, bottom dwelling, plants and animals. Such conditions include the presence of a solid surface that is free from excessive mud and sand. This must be in relatively clear, warm, sea water having sufficient movement to circulate oxygen and plankton amongst the colonizing organisms. As these plants and animals grow ever upwards and outwards they eventually die and their skeletons and shells accumulate and are cemented together by the calcareous algae ("Coral Reefs"). A limestone mound is formed which represents the beginnings of a reef Corals, mollusks, and algae flourish on the surface of the newly formed reef and, when they die, add to its bulk. This process, over thousands of years, raises the reef towards the surface of the water, and it could be described as a 'growing' reef When this reef finally, reaches the surface, upward growth is checked, but lateral (sideways) growth continues.

Different types of reefs form in different ways; for example a fringing will grow outwards from a continental island, while a platform reef may form over a solid irregularity anywhere on a continental shelf (Achituv, 1990). The reefs of Australia's Great Barrier Reef probably originated in this way. However, special conditions favored their development and continued growth. The first of these conditions was the occurrence of a broad continental shelf off the coast of Queensland which provided a suitable base for coral colonization in shallow water. A second factor that initiated reef development in the past, but was not peculiar to this region alone, was the fluctuation in sea level that occurred in the Pleistocene era many thousands of years ago (Achituv, 1990). During this time the sea level was on several occasions much lower than its present level and parts of the continental shelf were exposed to air. When the sea began to rise, taking thousands of years, benthic organisms colonizing suitable areas were able to keep pace with the rising sea level until the present reefs were formed (Buddemeier, 1976).

Warm water and favorable oceanic and tidally induced currents maintain flourishing coral growths throughout the Great Barrier Reef at the present time. Types of Coral Reefs: There are many different types of reefs found within the Great Barrier Reef province and it is useful to be able to identify them so work and observations on one can be compared to another. Coral reefs have been divided into two main categories. The first comprise the oceanic reefs which are found in the open ocean, have a non-limestone reef base and occur in deep water (over I 00 fathoms). The second group includes the shelf reefs which occur in relatively shallow water on continental shelves. Fringing reef are common to both groups although they are best developed in the oceanic province ("Coral Reefs"). The separation of reefs into different types is based on shape, central structure (e.g.

development of a lagoon), general zonation and their location on the continental shelf Generally speaking, the reefs of the Great Barrier Reef can be separated into three major categories: wall reefs or linear reefs (commonly referred to as outer barrier reefs) occurring on the northern part of the province near the seaward margin of the shelf, platform reefs, which comprise the majority of reefs, have an oval shape and lie between the seaward margin of the continental shelf and the mainland; and fringing reefs that are found growing out from the shores of continental islands and the mainland. The Great Barrier Reef today-: Human intervention along with natural occurrences have created some problems which have proved to be detrimental to the Great Barrier Reef and reefs in general. By the 1990's coral reefs off the coasts of more than 20 countries were being ravaged by coral bleaching, pollution, freighter traffic, and the venomous, coral eating starfish known as the crown of thorns. Bleaching is thought to be caused by rising water temperatures, which the coral cannot withstand. Oil spills and chemical pollution are a major threat to coral. Long-term damage occurs when stands of coral are knocked down by freighters or boat anchors.

Over harvesting of fish has resulted in the loss of coral-protecting sea-urchins, leaving the coral open to the crown of thorns (Rowe, 1984). The Australian government, along with other environmental agencies, have been working diligently to preserve and limit destruction of the coral. WORKS CITED Achituv, Y. (1990) "Evolution and zoogeography of coral reefs." Ecosystems of the World, 25, 27-49 Buddemeier, R.W. (I 976) "Coral growth." Oceanography and marine Biology Annual Review, 14, 183-185 Patton, W.K. (I 976) "Animal associates of living reef corals" Biology and Geology of Coral Reefs, 3, 23-26 Rowe, F.W.E.

(1984) "Crown of Thomas" Search, 11, 211-213 "Coral," Microsoft Encarta 96 Encyclopedia "Coral Reefs," Microsoft Encarta 96 Encyclopedia Cairns Islands off Cairns - Australia Great Barrier Reef - Surrounding Islands Fitzroy Island: is 7 km from the Cairns mainland. This beautiful 339 hectares of un spoiled region is a rainforest National Park. Daily catamaran ser vices run from Cairns and accommodation is available from cosy bunkhouse style to private beachside cabins. Scuba dive, snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef, stroll the beautiful white sandy beaches or just relax. Did you know: That Fitzroy Island was named by James Cook during his voyage back in 1770. Lizard Island: 240km off the Cairns main-land it is Australia's furthermost island. This 1000 hectare rainforest clad Island was in 1939 declared a National Park. Daily flights from Cairns connect to this secluded, picturesque Island retreat which has resort style accommodation.

Facilities include Snorkelling, motorised dinghies, deep sea diving, fishing bush walking and glass bottom boat. The Island also has a research station. Campers must obtain a permit from The National Parks & Wildlife Service Cairns. Did you know: The first European to explore Lizard island was Lt. Captain James Cook. He anchored in one of the bays where he then climbed to the top of a hill (now known as Cook's Lookout ) to survey a suitable safe passage away from the Island. Green Island: is part of a protected Marine Park and is surrounded by the beautiful Rainforest and Coral Reef. This 15 hectare Island is a 45 minute cruise from the Cairns mainland. Snorkel or Scuba dive among the marine life or view it from a glass bottom boat or semi-submersible. Showers, change rooms, shops and beach hire equipment are available. Relax on the beach or stroll through the National Park. The accommodation is a luxury resort with all the modern facilities Double Island: Is situated 20km North of Cairns International Airport and is a 6 minute boat trip off the shores of Palm Cove. Did you Know?

The earliest European record of the island occurred in 1848 when Owen sailed from Dunk Island to the Torres Strait on the Rattlesnake. FURTHER SOUTHDUNK ISLAND Dunk Island is probably one of the best known of Australia's tropical islands. Dunk Island is about 4.5 km offshore from Mission Beach and 36 km north of Cardwell. The National Park covers 730 ha. An airstrip, resort & farm cover the remaining 240ha in the north-west. From the sea, a mosaic of shades of green is visible. Over much of the island, a relatively open forest of eucalypts is accompanied by an under-storey of rainforest plants including many palms and thick, looping, coiled lianas. Thirteen kilometres of walking track encourage exploration of most of the island's many habitats and provide an introduction to some of its diversity of animal life including more than 100 species of birds. Proximity of creeks, rainforests, eucalypt forest, rocky shore, reef flat and mangroves provides an ideal situation for nature watching and allows an insight into the importance of these island national parks as wildlife refuges.

An air service connects Dunk Island and the mainland, and a regular ferry service leaves from Clump Point jetty. Taxi boats are available from Wongaling Beach. A boat ramp is located at Mission Beach. Brammo Bay, on the northern end of Dunk, offers a protected anchorage in south easterly winds. HINCHINBROOK ISLAND Hinchinbrook is Australia's largest island national park and is separated from the mainland by the narrow Hinchinbrook Channel. Mangroves fringe the shores of this deep channel which is scoured from sand and mud by strong tidal currents. Rising 1142m from the centre of the island is Mt Bowen, largest in the chain of rugged granite mountains. The spectacular north face of Mt Bowen drops 1121m in cliffs and forested rocky slopes almost to sea level. From here a narrow, 8km long strip of sand, stretches north to connect with Cape Sandwich and Cape Richards. This is backed on the protected western side by extensive mangrove forests. FAMILY ISLANDS The family islands are a chain of islands extending approximately 14km in length and are located offshore of Tully Heads and Mission Beach.

Dunk Island is the most northerly lying island and the largest of the Family Group. The southern islands include Wheeler, Coombe, Smith, Bowden and Hudson Islands and are all national parks covering 11 9ha. Thorpe and Bedarra (Richards) Islands to the north are privately owned. The prevailing southeasterly wind and swell have also formed sand spits on the northwestern landing points. Living coral and rubble demand care when anchoring. Permits are required for camping on Dunk, Wheeler and Coombe Islands. Camping is not permitted on Smith, Bowden or Hudson Islands. Tables are provided on camping islands but there are no toilets or walking tracks. Drinking water should be carried. GOULD ISLAND back up^ This 830ha national park lies 4.5km northwest of Cape Richards and 17km northeast of Cardwell. Most vegetation on this mainly granite island is eucalypt woodland but patches of rainforest occur in gullies. Gould Island is noted for its flocks of noisy sulfur-crested cockatoos, their gleaming white plumage conspicuous against the dark green vegetation.

Turtles and dugong may be seen surfacing as they feed on the extensive sea grass beds in the shallow waters to the south and west. A camping and picnic area on the western beach has pit toilets and tables. Water can be obtained from a small creek at the northern end of this beach. This creek is usually dry between August and December when water must be brought to the island. BROOK ISLANDS This cluster of four small, densely vegetated national park islands lies 30km north east from Cardwell. An extensive fringing coral reef, linking the three northernmost islands provides excellent snorkelling. Care should be taken to prevent damage to coral when anchoring. Good fair-weather anchorage is found off the northwestern end of North Island. Camping is not permitted on the Brook Islands and no facilities are provided. The Brook Islands are extremely important as the nesting place for a colony of more than 20000 Torresian imperial-pigeons. Arriving in September to breed, they colonize the islands till about February when parents and offspring return to Papua New Guinea for the winter. Care should be taken not to disturbed the nesting grounds.

Simply walking through a nesting colony can cause young birds to leave the nest prematurely, only to fall and perish on the ground. Summer is also the breeding season for black-naped terns which lay their well-camouflaged eggs on sand and shingle where they can be crushed underfoot, even by careful walkers. To protect these vulnerable birds, visitors during the breeding season should avoid landing on the island. The marine park area surrounding Brook Islands 5OOm from shore is zoned Marine National Park B. This means 'look but do not take'. Information on the Islands was obtained from the Queensland Department of Environment. Hardy Reef One of the world's most remarkable natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef lies off Queensland's coastline. Home to countless species of marine wildlife , stunning natural scenery and world-class experiences, the Great Barrier Reef is a national treasure that everyone needs to experience first hand! Want to learn more Great Barrier Reef facts? Dive into the infographic below. If you are ready to plan your Great Barrier Reef trip, start here .

Great Barrier Reef Facts Fast Facts: The World's Largest & Most Extensive Coral Reef System The Great Barrier Reef is the largest and most extensive coral reef system in the world comprising about 2900 individual coral reefs, 600 continental islands and 300 coral cays. It represents approximately 10% of all coral reefs in the world. The Great Barrier Reef spans two thirds of the north eastern coastline of Australia extending north from Bundaberg on Queensland’s coast to Cape York , the northern tip of Australia. It is 2300 kms long and approximately 350 000 kms2 in size. That’s about 70 million football fields or the size of Japan! It is the largest natural feature on earth and its impressive size makes it the only living structure that can be seen from the moon. Fast Facts: World Class, World Heritage The Great Barrier Reef is recognised internationally as one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. Its outstanding natural significance was recognised in 1981 when it became the first coral reef system in the world to be awarded World Heritage status. It is the world’s third largest World Heritage Area.

The Great Barrier Reef meets all four of the natural criteria for World Heritage listing, one of only a handful of natural areas on earth to do so. Over 99% of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area is protected within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and about 50% of its islands are protected by National Park status. This ensures the coral reef system and its inhabitants are protected effectively and preserved for future generations to enjoy. The Great Barrier Reef is renowned as one of the world’s healthiest reef systems. This is due in part to innovative management and its status as a protected area. Fast Facts: A Rich Underwater World The Great Barrier Reef is home to: more than 30 species of whales and dolphins 1625 species of fish 411 species of hard coral and over 150 species of soft coral (equates to 10% of the world’s soft coral) as many as 3000 species of molluscs 6 of the world’s 7 species of marine turtles Giant clams over 120 years old Millions of nesting seabirds Turtles, crocodiles and sharks are the marine 'dinosaurs' of the Reef.

Turtles have been on the Reef for 150 million years, crocodiles for 200 million years and sharks for around 400 million years! These are the iconic marine animals of the Great Barrier Reef, that you have to see: Whales The Great Barrier Reef at Orpheus Island - Tourism Australia Orpheus Island fringing reef snorkel, Great Barrier Reef, Queensland Diving and Snorkelling For those keen to slip on a snorkel, the fringing reef surrounding Orpheus and the neighbouring islands offer diverse marine life and coral gardens which is perfect for a snorkel or dive adventure . Yanks Jetty, a W.W.II remnant of the American Catalina Base is a snorkeller's paradise and Orpheus’ local dive sites are home to 1,100 of the 1,500 species of fish on the reef, 340 of the 359 varieties of hard corals and some of the region’s largest collections of soft corals. The deeper, outer reefs are approximately 75 mins from the lodge by boat and are accessible by private charter.

While on your snorkel adventure, keep and eye out for green turtles, manta rays, bull rays and reef sharks. Key Dates: Manta Ray season: July to early November Humpback whale migration: late June to mid-late September Annual coral spawning: mid-late October to late November Fishing The waters surrounding Orpheus provide some of the most sought after reef species in the world. Being so close the Great Barrier Reef makes it a fisherman's dream, offering up an array of table fish including Coral Trout, Sweetlip, Red Emperor and Giant Trevally. For the avid anglers, a trip to the outer reef is where the pelagic species such as Dog Tooth Tuna, Spanish Mackerel and Wahoo breed. Following your fishing expedition you can have your catch prepared to your liking by the Head Chef and served for dinner back at the lodge. Orpheus offers full and half day expeditions to the fringing and outer reefs, subject to weather and tidal conditions. You can also take out a motorised dinghy from the lodge and explore the island's fishing solo. Orpheus Island Resort, Great Barrier Reef, Queensland The Lodge The Orpheus Island lodge is the perfect luxury island escape.

Private terraces offer ocean views where you can watch the serene Orpheus sunsets. The island’s signature dining experience, Dining with the Tides, is a stalwart experience for the logde. This private dinner on the pier, backlit by the sun’s setting rays over the Coral Sea, is a must-do. You get to meet with the culinary team to design your own six course menu (1 x amuse bouche, 2 x entrées, 2 x mains and 1 x dessert) with three wine pairings (entrée, main, dessert) from a select cellar master list. Another lodge must-do is the Gwandalan Day Spa. The treatments at the spa embrace indigenous herbalism, aromatherapy and touch therapy. The spa's rituals are inspired by traditional Aboriginal techniques and aim to restore balance and wellness. Hinchinbrook Island Hinchinbrook Island is Australia’s largest island National Park and is only a short distance from Orpheus. The island is beautifully punctuated by abrupt headlands, waterfalls, secluded sandy pocket beaches, mangrove-lined estuaries and dense rainforest.

From Orpheus you can experience Hinchinbrook by either helicopter or boat (by boat you will tour the channel between Hinchinbrook Island and the picturesque Cardwell Coast). Highlights of this tour include guided walks along rainforest trails to the famous Zoe and Mulligan waterfalls and saltwater crocodile spotting in the island’s waterways. Orpheus Island, Great Barrier Reef, Queensland Cruises Explore the fringing reef and jump onboard the Maree Ann — the Lodge's in-house boat, or book a cruise like SeaLink cruises. Sail over the coral gardens, and learn about the history and diversity of the fringing reef and the wonderful array of marine life that call the waters surrounding Orpheus home. If you choose a SeaLink cruise, you'll be exploring the Palm Island Group; Pelorus, Orpheus and the Great Palm Island on a full-day cruise. Between June and October, you may even catch a glimpse of the Humpback Whales along the way. The other option is to cruise yourself around the reef in a motorised dinghy . Explore the private beaches, moor the boat and relax on shore or snorkel straight off the beach. A must-see is the giant clam nursery located in Pioneer Bay.

Planted in the 1980s to help boost their dwindling numbers in the reef, the nursery is now populated by 300 impressive molluscs, each weighing 150 - 200kg, stretching 3ft in width and donning ruffled chinchilla lips in a rainbow of colours. More Island Escapes The story behind new film Open Water | Film | The Guardian Share on Messenger Close The sun is bright and hot as you break surface. You squint to see the outline of a boat. After 40 minutes of scuba diving you feel disoriented. You paddle round to see whether the boat is behind you, but there is nothing: just calm, blue ocean, stretching to the horizon. Such is the scenario of Open Water, the surprise hit of this year's Sundance film festival, which has also met with rave reviews across the American movie press. Shot on handheld digital cameras with a shoestring budget, it depicts the disintegration of a happy American couple after they are abandoned in shark-infested seas off the Bahamas during a dive holiday. The promotional material boasts that the film is "based on true events", but its makers are now parrying questions about exactly which true events are involved.

Yet few doubt that the inspiration is the case of Tom and Eileen Lonergan, American tourists who disappeared off Australia's Great Barrier Reef on January 25, 1998. The couple had wound up in Australia after several years of travelling round the world. They had met and married at Louisiana State University, where Eileen had taken up scuba diving and persuaded Tom to join in her hobby. For two years they had taught for the Peace Corps in the Pacific island country of Tuvalu, before spending a further year in Fiji. They were planning to travel round the world before heading home, but first the couple were determined to visit the Barrier Reef. In Port Douglas, an upmarket diving and sailing town towards the end of the road north through Queensland, they decided to take a day trip on a 26-passenger boat, the Outer Edge. For A$160, the five crew would take them for three dives on the ribbon reefs, a stack of broad shoals that run along the seaward ramparts of the Barrier Reef, 40 miles offshore. On their third dive, round about 3pm, they headed off together and were last spotted swimming calmly 12m down.

When they came to the surface after less than an hour underwater, the Outer Edge had gone. Being left behind on a dive is not an instant death sentence. Paul Lucas, a tourist from Leicester with less than 10 dives under his belt, survived for 40 hours in stormy seas in January 2000, after he was left behind by a dive boat in northern New South Wales. A diver is wearing an inflatable lifejacket and has the air to inflate it in a tank strapped to their back. The danger in the blazing heat of tropical Queensland is that, without fresh water, someone floating in the middle of the ocean may dehydrate long before help can arrive. The day after the incident the Outer Edge brought another tour party to the area, and one diver found six dive weights resting on the bottom. Oblivious to what had happened the previous day, a crew member described the find as a bonus. At that point Tom and Eileen might still have been alive just a few miles away, using the empty dive belt to bind themselves together. They certainly appear to have survived the night: several months later a fisherman 100 miles north of the site found a dive slate which records their thoughts as dawn broke that morning.

In a wobbly scrawl faded by months in the water, Tom Lonergan had written: "[Mo]nday Jan 26; 1998 08am. To anyone [who] can help us: We have been abandoned on A[gin]court Reef by MV Outer Edge 25 Jan 98 3pm. Please help us [come] to rescue us before we die. Help!!!" Other clues offered tantalising glimpses of what might have happened. A wetsuit of Eileen's size washed up in north Queensland in early February; scientists measuring the speed of barnacle growth on its zip estimated that it was lost on January 26. Tears in the material around the buttocks and armpit had apparently been caused by coral. Inflatable dive jackets marked with Tom and Eileen's names were later washed ashore north of Port Douglas, along with their tanks - still buoyed up by a few remnants of air - and one of Eileen's fins. None showed any signs of the damage you would expect from a violent end, suggesting that the couple were not the victim of a shark attack, as the film suggests.

Experts at the inquest speculated that, drifting helplessly back and forth on the tides in the building heat of the tropical sun, the couple may have been driven delirious by dehydration and have voluntarily struggled out of their cumbersome outfits. Without the buoyancy provided by their dive jackets and wetsuits, they would not have been able to tread water for long. Publicity surrounding the case spelled disaster for the Queensland dive industry. Nearly 50,000 people work in Queensland's Barrier Reef tourist trade, which is worth A$4.3bn and hosts nearly 4m day trips every year. High-profile horror stories could irrevocably taint the image of local operators. Worse still, this had not been simply an unavoidable accident. Dive boat crews are meant to count every diver into and out of the water and then carry out a further count when the boat leaves the dive site, but somehow the Lonergans had slipped through the net. Outer Edge skipper Jack Nairn said that he had ordered a crew member to carry out the count, and that the numbers had become confused because two passengers had jumped into the water halfway through.

In any case, no one seems to have noticed that two sets of diving gear were missing as the boat steamed back to Port Douglas, nor was any alarm raised the following day when the Outer Edge returned to the same spot. It was only two days later, when Nairn found a bag containing the Lonergans' wallet and passports on the boat, that the alarm was raised. By that time, Tom and Eileen would probably already have died. The industry's damage-control mechanism was desperate and unpleasant. Rumours started spreading - many of them put about by the Outer Edge's owner, Tom Colrain - that there was more to the Lonergans' case than met the eye. Melancholy passages in the diaries of Tom and Eileen were raised as evidence that they had committed suicide, that he had killed her in a murder-suicide, even that they had faked their own deaths and sped off to a new life in another boat supposedly spotted nearby. Sightings of the Lonergans began pouring in from all over Australia. In the inquest and subsequent trial of Jack Nairn on manslaughter charges, the speculation reached fever pitch.

"The defence attorney used these diaries to absolutely slander, to absolutely destroy these two people's reputations," says Eileen's father, John Hains, who travelled to Cairns for the hearing. "I was disappointed in the verdict [in which Jack Nairn was found not guilty of manslaughter]. I felt like the jury didn't believe that they were dead, and to me that was the essence of the trial, was to prove that they had died." Six years on, the names of Tom and Eileen Lonergan are still those most likely to shut down a Cairns conversation, so the release and publicity surrounding Open Water is far from welcome. Jack Nairn still lives in the area despite losing his business as a result of the publicity and debts surrounding his trial. He initially refused to talk about the case, and would only discuss how the fallout from the case had affected him. "The reality of it is that the thing creates emotional turmoil for all of the people involved," he says. "It's incredibly unsettling and stressful for myself and my children, and for us it's a terrible thing that [Open Water] has been made.

This is really very bad for the industry as a whole." Nairn's concerns about the impact of the film on tourism are not surprising, given the Queensland dive industry's struggle to rebuild its squeaky-clean image in the wake of the Lonergans' deaths. In a check on 59 dive shops by Queensland health and safety inspectors in 2002, a total of 76 notices were issued for failure to do proper head counts, dive logs or lookouts - the main issues highlighted three years earlier in the Lonergan inquest. Hains has no truck with the release of Open Water. "As far as the movie's concerned we're not interested. We won't see it," he says. Yet remarkably, he holds no grudge against the crew and passengers on the Outer Edge. "I don't have any hard feelings against anybody, because it was an accident," he says. His only disappointment is that among all the equipment washed up on the shores of north Queensland, there was never a trace of his daughter's body. "It leaves a big hole in you to lose your kid, that's part of your life. I wish they had found them, so we had something. I suppose we have the Great Barrier Reef.

They're part of that." · Open Water is released on September 10. Great Barrier Reef -- World Heritage Site -- National Geographic Criteria: (vii)(viii)(ix)(x) Reason for Designation: This sprawling coral reef system is one of the most biologically diverse places on the planet. * * * You can spend a lifetime exploring the Great Barrier Reef and still not see all of this colorful coral realm—it’s nearly the size of Montana. Sprawling off the east coast of Queensland, Australia, the Great Barrier Reef is not a single reef but a group of more than 2,800 distinct entities. It stretches over 1,250 miles (2,000 kilometers) north to south and covers some 135,000 square miles (350,000 square kilometers) in total. The reef system is the largest structure on Earth built by living organisms, tiny hard corals that are no bigger than a fingernail. When corals die in countless numbers their limestone-secreted skeletons build upon one another to form the bedrock of the reef. The magnificent structures we see today were produced by a slow process played out over millions of years.

Reefs grow only about half an inch (1.3 centimeters) a year. Some 2,000 different fish species have been identified on the Great Barrier Reef, and new ones are found each year. Scientists estimate that the reef is home to 4,000 mollusk species and over 250 different shrimp species. Even the corals that construct the reef itself are diverse—numbering some 400 species. This colorful aquatic ecosystem is home to a staggering diversity of plant and lower animal life but is also frequented by larger species like dugongs, sea turtles, sharks, and dolphins. In order to protect these biological treasures, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, still the world’s largest national marine sanctuary, was designated in 1975. Some two million tourists visit the Great Barrier Reef each year, driving an eco-economy that has been estimated to top one billion dollars annually. How to Get There Most day trips to the reef leave on boats from coastal centers like Cairns or Port Douglas. Most of the reef is dozens of miles offshore and must be reached by boat journeys of one to several hours.

When to Go The Great Barrier Reef lies in tropical waters where temperatures are warm enough to offer enjoyable swimming and diving year round—though averages can vary 10°F (5.5°C) from winter to summer. Peak tourism time on the reef is April through November, but even in winter ocean water temperatures typically top 72°F (22°C). Daytime temperatures during the summer months (December to March) can be quite hot—particularly in the northern regions of the reef. How to Visit High-speed catamarans take day-trip visitors to the reef, often docking at special base camp platforms equipped for snorkeling, diving, or exploration via glass-sided semi-submersibles. Other boat tours, including sailboats, provide a more leisurely experience. Private charters are available for snorkeling, diving, whale watching, or fishing adventures—including overnight live-aboard vessels for journeys to more remote locations. Aircraft and helicopter flights offer a bird's-eye view of the massive reef system, much of which lies close to the surface in clear, warm waters.

Comment on This Story Explore Australia's Great Barrier Reef Explore Australia's Great Barrier Reef 03.02.2015 Topic Australia andNew Zealand Travel One of the top attractions for Australia and New Zealand travel is the Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest collection of coral reefs. Located in northeast Australia, off the coast of Queensland, it's an important United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization World Heritage site for its outstanding universal value. If you're travelling down under, consider observing the indescribable beauty and variety of animals within the Great Barrier Reef. Facts about the reef Spanning more than 348,000 square kilometres, the Great Barrier Reef is a site to behold. Within the Great Barrier Reef lies roughly 400 types of coral, 4,000 types of mollusks and 1,500 species of fish. The UNESCO World Heritage area that remains protected by the country includes more than 900 islands of varying sizes and more than 2,500 individual reefs. According to Live Science , the size of the marine park is equivalent to the American West Coast, from Vancouver to the Mexico-U.S. border. In fact, it's even visible from space.

The reef began forming about 500,000 years ago, but the current formation is only roughly 7,000 years old, Live Science explained. During the Ice Age, coral formed along the shores and foothills of the mountains. Once the glaciers began melting, water flowed over the land, turning the burgeoning reef into an underground structure. Depths in the marine park can range from an average of 35 metres near shore to 2,000 metres near sloped drop-offs. Animals of the reef The Great Barrier Reef is mainly made of coral polyps, a member of the jellyfish family. Algae called zooxanthellae live on the coral, the result of a mutual relationship between the organisms. The area surrounding the reef contains more than 30 species of whales, porpoises and dolphins, as well as 17 species of sea snake, which are typically found in the warm, southern region of the reef. With 215 species of birds - 22 species of seabirds and 32 species of shore birds - the Great Barrier Reef is paradise for bird watchers.

There are also six species of turtles that mate in the Great Barrier Reef area - the Green Sea Turtle, the Flatback Turtle, the Leatherback Sea Turtle, the Hawksbill Turtle, the Loggerhead Sea Turtle and the Olive Ridley Sea Turtle. Threats to the reef For every ounce of majesty that the Great Barrier Reef holds, there's an equal amount of fragility. It takes specific conditions for the plant and animal species to survive, let alone thrive. With about 2 million tourists flooding the area each year, the reef is exposed to pollution and potential danger. Various types of pollution have caused parts of the reef and its inhabitants to die, including oil spills from large ships. Natural causes also contribute to the reef's suffering. When flooding season hits, fertilizer and pesticide runoff enters the Great Barrier Reef ecosystem. Additionally, warmer water temperatures and rising water levels have affected the site's health. With water covering wetlands that once served as filters for harmful chemicals like pesticides, the reef is less protected. Certain organisms can't survive in the warmer climate, meaning the increase in water temperature can result in species becoming extinct. Australian Cities, States and Territories - Tourism Australia Add Share Mainland Australia is the world’s largest island but also the smallest continent.

The country is divided into six states and two territories. What are Australia's cities, states and territories? Mainland Australia is the world’s largest island but also the smallest continent. The country is divided into six states and two territories. Australian Capital Territory The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) bounds the national capital of Canberra and is the centre of government. The Australian Capital Territory is located approximately 290 kilometres (180 miles) south of Sydney, and is home to a number of important national institutions, including Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial and the National Gallery of Australia. New South Wales New South Wales (NSW) is Australia’s oldest and most populous state. New South Wales was originally settled as a penal colony on the shores of Port Jackson where the bustling capital city of Sydney now stands. Sydney is the nation’s largest city and is renowned for its idyllic beaches, great walks and world-class dining. New South Wales is also home to popular attractions including the Blue Mountains and the Hunter Valley wine region. Northern Territory At the top end of Australia lies the Northern Territory (NT). Darwin , on the northern coast, is the capital, and Alice Springs is the principal inland town.

Alice Springs is the physical heart of Australia, almost exactly at the nation's geographical centre. The Northern Territory is home to the famous Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) and Kakadu National Park . Queensland Queensland (QLD) is Australia’s second-largest state (in size) and is home to the world famous Great Barrier Reef , the world’s most extensive subtropical rainforest and the beautiful Queensland Islands – including the World Heritage-listed Fraser Island . Brisbane is the state’s capital; it enjoys more winter sunshine and warmth than most Australian cities and is perfect for outdoor activities and water sports. South Australia South Australia (SA) sits in the southern central part of the country, and covers some of the most arid parts of the continent. The state’s capital is Adelaide and is a great base for exploring the Barossa wineries, the Flinders Ranges and Kangaroo Island . South Australia has a thriving arts scene and is known as the ‘Festival State’, with more than 500 events and festivals taking place there each year. Tasmania Tasmania (TAS) is separated from mainland Australia by the Bass Strait and is the smallest state in Australia.

The capital, Hobart , was founded in 1804 as a penal colony, and is Australia's second oldest capital city after Sydney. One-fifth of Tasmania is covered by national parks and wilderness – abundant in driving routes and walking trails – and it is one of the world’s most mountainous islands. Victoria Victoria (VIC) is the smallest of the mainland states in size but is home to the country’s second most populated city, Melbourne . Often referred to as the nation’s cultural capital, Melbourne is famed for its graffiti laneways, fashion-forward boutiques and booming café scene. Victorians' enthusiasm for sport is also legendary and this is where Australian Rules football began. The only thing more sacred than the footy is Melbournians love of coffee, and here you’ll find some of Australia’s best flat whites, cappuccinos and piccolo lattes. Western Australia Western Australia (WA) is Australia’s largest state and is a place of true contrasts: from desert in the east to 13,000 kilometres of pristine coastline on the west. The state’s capital is Perth ; the fourth most populous city in Australia and famed for its uncrowded beaches, parklands and fresh seafood.

Off the coast of Esperance, in the state’s south, is Middle Island, which is home to the extraordinary pink-coloured Lake Hillier . Australia also administers Ashmore and Cartier Islands, Christmas Island, the Cocos (or Keeling) Islands, the Coral Sea Islands, Heard and McDonald Islands, Norfolk Island and the Australian Antarctic Territory (covering 42 per cent of the Antarctic continent) as external territories. MORE ARTICLES LIKE THIS

Question: The Great Barrier Reef lies off the shores of what country?
Answer: Australia