2021

January

Navigating the “new normal”

Dr Belinda Cash comments in an article about COVID-19 and its impact on older people mentally and socially that ran in The Senior Victoria, and The Senior South Australia, January 3.

Lizard covers

A story co-authored by members of the Murrumbidgee MER team on tree covers for lizards has been published on the Flow-Mer website at https://flow-mer.org.au/life-on-a-tree-monitoring-arboreal-lizards-in-floodplain-environments/

Your expert guide

Dr Melanie Massaro has been promoted as an “expert guide” in Australian Geographic, Jan 5.

This week in politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan  discussed the politics of the day which included political viewpoints on the government’s choice  of vaccines for COVID-19; the intersection of politics and science; the situation playing out in America particularly the active encouragement of Trump and those close to him to incite a riot in Capital Hill, the upcoming impeachment trial, and the fragility of democracy on ABC Central West, January 13.

Impeachment trial

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan discussed the outgoing US President Donald Trump’s upcoming impeachment trial on ABC Western Plains, January 15.

Change to national anthem

The changing of Australia's national anthem to denote the many years of Indigenous Australian inhabitation of the land does not go far enough to promote a unified national identity, according to Professor Dominic O’Sullivan in an article in The Daily Advertiser, in an article in the Daily Advertiser which also refers to his new book Sharing the Sovereign, on line January 15 and in print January 18.

Research on snakes

There was an interview with new ILWS post-doc Dr Chris Jolly, a snake catcher, on a paper he has published in Austral Ecology based on his seven years of snake catching and human and snake interactions, on ABC Darwin, and ABC Alice Springs, January 16.

Impact of bushfires on wildlife

One year on since the fires of last summer, Associate Professor Dale Nimmo spoke about their impact on Australian’s wildlife on ABC Goulburn Murray, ABC Gippsland, January 19.

How the phases of the moon affect Australian Wildlife

An article co-authored by PhD student Grant Linley on how the moon affects Australian wildlife was republished by Gizmodo, Jan 22.https://www.gizmodo.com.au/2021/01/how-phases-of-the-moon-affect-native-australian-wildlife/

Sloane’s froglet

Dr Alex Knight was interviewed re her research into the Sloane’s froglet and her work with work with schools in the Corowa district on ABC Goulburn Murray, ABC Gippsland, ABC Shepparton,  January 22.

The Science of Stuff

In his regular segment on ABC Goulburn Murray and ABC Shepparton Dr John Rafferty spoke about supermarkets taking on insect-based products as a source of protein, cicadas, the Australian Museum’s website and insects as food in general, January 28.

February

The benefits of the four-day working week

ILWS Honours scholarship recipient Simone-Maree Hyde, as part of her research project looking into the four-day week, is surveying employers who offer their workers a four-day week. Story in the Border Mail, February 1 and the North West Star, February 2 and radio interviews on ABC Riverina, February 3, ABC Ballarat, ABC Mildura, ABC Goulburn Murray, ABC West Victoria AM,  February 4 and ABC South East SA, February 8.

Book on Murray cod

Associate Professor Paul Humphries was interviewed on ABC Shepparton about a new book he is writing about Murray cod, February 2.

Colonisation in Australia

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan spoke about the colonisation of Australia and the history of massacre of Indigenous people on SBS Radio, February 3.

Mouse plague

Professor David Watson discussed the current mouse plague and the research that’s been happening (or hasn’t been happening) and how the rain will help to control numbers, on 2BS, February 4 and again February 5. He then spoke further about this on ABC Shepparton, February 16.

OzFish Deniliquin Lagoons Restoration project

Dr John Conallin tells the story of the OzFish Deniliquin Lagoons Restoration project in a video published February 4 on Facebook https://fb.watch/3su2vLEQiQ/

Self-determination

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan’s piece in the Conversation Guaranteed Māori representation in local government is about self-determination — and it’s good for democracy was picked up by Hashtag  Australia, the Australian Daily Bulletin.com.au, February 5.

Protecting wetlands

A story featuring the views of Institute adjunct professor Max Finlayson and Dr John Conallin re the importance of protecting wetlands and 50 years since the Ramsar Convention’s inception, was published in the Border Mail, February 5.

What Australia could learn from New Zealand

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan was featured in a story on SBS News about what Australia could learn from New Zealand about signing a treaty with its Indigenous peoples, https://www.sbs.com.au/news/what-australia-can-learn-from-new-zealand-about-signing-a-treaty-with-its-indigenous-peoples, February 5.

Learning with locals in monitoring and research

A lovely story about the Edward/Kolety-Wakool MER project collaboration with Yarkuwa Indigenous Knowledge Centre was featured in a booklet, Rivers, the Veins of our Country, put out by the MDBA. The booklet features 10 case studies of First Nation Peoples’ participation in environmental watering. https://www.mdba.gov.au/sites/default/files/pubs/rivers-the-veins-of-our-country-2019-20.pdf The media release went out February 5.

Southern Bell frogs

Associate Professor Skye Wassens spoke about the health of southern bell frog populations along the Murrumbidgee in a radio interview that was aired on ABC North Coast NSW, ABC South East NSW, ABC Mid North Coast NSW, ABC Riverina, February 8. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-02-08/endangered-frog-recorded-in-the-murrumbidgee-in-large-numbers/13126976

Image Ecologies

There was a story about a photographic exhibition, “Image Ecologies” focussing on the post-industrial condition of broken Hill, with works by James Farley in the Border Mail, February 11.

Agriculture can lead the way

Professor Kevin Parton says there is massive overseas revenue streams on offer for Australian farms offering up carbon sequestration in an article in Queensland Country Life, February 11. https://www.queenslandcountrylife.com.au/story/7121192/ag-can-lead-the-way-to-a-low-carbon-economy-scientists-say/

Movement of platypus on regulated rivers

An article co-authored by Institute Adjunct Dr Gilad Bino entitled “Long-term movements and activity patterns of platypus on regulated rivers” appeared as a scientific report in Nature, February 11. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-81142-6

Understanding Ageing

A free-one line course “Understanding Ageing” developed by ILWS researcher Dr Belinda Cash and others from CSU was promoted by HelloCare, February 13.

Aged care

Associate Professor Maree Bernoth spoke about the aged care industry, the problems from commercialising the industry, and the need for community care packages so the elderly can stay at home, on ABC New England North West, ABC Riverina, ABC South East NSW and ABC Central West NSW, February 15.

Flooding driver of fishery in Cambodia

There was an article in Nature’s scientific reports, Flooding is a key driver of the Tonle Sap dai fishery in Cambodia, co-authored by Institute Adjunct Kent Hortle, published February 15.

Support for caregivers

Dr Emma Colvin spoke about her research into the support given for caregivers transitioning into higher education on 2BS, February 16.

Discovery of shrimp

Institute Adjunct Dr Gavin Rees from CSIRO’s Aquatic Ecology team spoke about the discovery of a two-centimetre-long colourless shrimp — parisia unguis —in the NT’s Beetaloo Basin which could have significant ramifications for plans to frack the area on ABC West Victoria, ABC South East NSW, ABC Northern Tasmania, ABC NewsRadio, ABC Darwin, ABC North Queensland, ABC Goulburn Murray, ABC Central Victoria, and  ABC Coffs Coast, February 17. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-02-17/betaloo-micro-organism-new-species-fracking/13159678

Decision to take away citizenship

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan gave his views on the legal and ethical implications of the Australian government's decision to take away the citizenship of a woman who has been found in Turkey and is said to have been working as a terrorist on ABC Riverina, February 17.

Disrespectful behaviour

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan was mentioned briefly in a news story about council staff and councillors being afraid for their safety on ABC Riverina, February 18.

Fishing for a new direction

There was a story in the Border Mail about the new Graduate Certificate in Fish Conservation and Management course developed by ILWS researchers, February 22. and in Fishing World, February 25.

Need for registered nurses in aged care

Associate Professor Maree Bernoth spoke about the need to have more registered nurses in the aged care sector on 2GB, February 23.

Lord Howe Island research

Ecologist Dr Melanie Massaro spoke about her research on Lord Howe Island and the rat eradication program with the aim of preserving the threatened Lord Howe currawong on ABC Goulburn Murray, February 23.

This week in politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan in his regular segment on ABC Central West discussed the resignation of MP Craig Kelly, the deal the Government has struck with Facebook and other political matters of the day, February 24.

Science of stuff

Dr John Rafferty spoke about the cost of space exploration and its value as part of his regular series the Science of Stuff on ABC Goulburn Murray, ABC Shepparton, February 25.

Aged Care Report

Associate Professor Maree Bernoth spoke about the Aged Care Report being tabled in Parliament today, the issues of staffing levels, the lack of transparency in accounting for the money provided by the Federal Government to private companies running Aged Care on ABC Central West, February 26.

Indigenous Recognition

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan’s February 26 The Conversation article Indigenous Recognition is more than a voice to Government was picked up by Hashtag  Australia, February 27, Australian Daily Bulletin.com.au March 2.

Aged Care Royal Commission Report

Associate Professor Maree Bernoth spoke on ABC 1 weekend breakfast TV Perth about the report and good news that the government has said it is going to support a program to further educate registered nurses in their initial years in the sector.  She was interviewed on ABC NewsRadio February 27, then again on ABC Newcastle, ABC Upper Hunter March 1.  She responded to comments by the regional chair of the aged and Community Services Association Mark Sewell, and shared her support where the report acknowledges different needs at different facilities in regional and remote areas on ABC Riverina, March 2.

Life – but not as we know it

Dr Belinda Cash was featured in a story offering insights into the impact of COVID- lockdowns on seniors and support options for getting back out into society in Sunday Mail Adelaide, February 28.

March

Forum focus on water licence

Institute Adjunct Professor David Goldney says the Winburndale Rivulet’s environmental management and the environmental assessment is “seriously flawed” in an article in the Western Advocate, March 2 & 3.

Trust the Science

Recent ILWS PhD graduate Dr Daniel Lander, and Dr Angela Ragusa say their research suggests a conceptual shits in approaches to vaccination communication holds potential to improve public health in an Opinion Piece in Charles Sturt University News, March 2.

This week in politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan in his regular segment spoke about the allegations of a cabinet minister and rape, the challenges  for the Prime Minister and difficulties of moral and political resolution of a case that cannot be resolved through criminal investigation because the woman died by suicide last year on ABC Central West and ABC Western Plains, March 3.

Former MP and ICAC hearings

Political experts, including Professor Dominic O’Sullivan, have said former NSW Riverina MP Daryl Maguire could face another round of public hearings as part of a corruption inquiry in The Daily Advertiser, March 3, The North West Star, March 4.

2.5 million reasons to rethink our connection to wildlife

Wildlife expert Associate Professor Andrew Peters said World Wildlife Day is an opportunity for us to reconnect to the environment before it is too late in an Opinion Piece in Charles Sturt University News, March 2, Ecovoice.com.au, March 3.

World Wildlife Day

Associate Professor Andrew Peters was interviewed about the human connection with wildlife in the natural world around us and how in recent decades that seems to be diminishing on 2BS 95.1FM, March 3.

Roadside reserves and travelling stock routes

Associate Peter Spooner spoke about the history of road reserves and the conservation value of these bush blocks, but says they are disappearing as the government policies create death by a thousand cuts On ABC Western Plains, ABC Central West, March 3.

Call to MDBA to investigate Hume solutions

Professor Lee Baumgartner and Dr Katie Doyle say it’s beyond time for modern engineering solutions at Hume Dam to solve the water quality issues as they nurse 37 Murray crayfish back to life in the aquatic research facility in Thurgoona, The Border Mail, March 4. He also spoke on ABC Shepparton, March 5.

Ecological monitoring in fire affected areas

Biodiversity expert Associate Professor Dale Nimmo praised a new state government focus on ecological monitoring in fire affected areas, saying it is long overdue on ABC Shepparton, March 4.

Snake Central revealed

Dr Chris Jolly is mentioned as a co-author of research in a story on snakes in Darwin, which harbours more species than any other capital city in Australia, in Jimboomba Times, March 4.

Sharing a vision

Dr John Conallin was mentioned as one of the experts facilitating participants attending the Krondrook-Perricoota (KP) Visioning Workshop in The Koondrook-Barham Bridge, March 4.

Winburndale Dam forum

ILWS Adjunct Professor David Goldney voiced concerns over the riverulet’s platypus population going extinct due to the water management at the Winburndale Dam Environmental Assessment Stakeholder Consultation Forum with the Bathurst Regional Council.  The story appeared in The Western Advocate, March 5.

Mothballs in ‘new’ aged care findings

An opinion piece by Associate Professor Maree Bernoth on the findings of the Royal Commission into Aged Care quality and Safety, and her concerns that they are useless unless politicians are held accountable, was published online on SeniorAu.com.au Senior Australian news and research on March 8.

Hot possums

Dr James Turner spoke on how ringtail possums cope with heatwaves with ABC Goulburn Murray, ABC Shepparton, March 9.

Mismanagement caused platypus extinction

Institute Adjunct Professor David Goldney says Bathurst Regional Council's management of the Winburndale Rivulet between 2017 and 2019 caused the extinction of the water body's platypus population at a forum convened by the Council, in the Western Advocate, March 9 online, March 10 print, The North West Star, March 10

Shark Mitigation Strategy

After five years of testing and trialling shark mitigation measures NSW DPI is running a survey to collect views.  The survey is being conducted by the University of Wollongong and Charles Sturt University on behalf of NSW DPI.  (ILWS researchers have conducted a number of shark research projects with NSW DPI).  The story appeared in Tweed Daily News, March 11,MirageNews.com, March 11, Gatton Star, March 12, Radio 100.9 Triple Z FM, March 12, Newcastle Herald, March 27.

Waterbirds in Gayini Wetlands

Tens of thousands of breeding waterbirds are thriving in the Gayini wetlands in south west NSW. The event is the result of a collaborative effort involving UNSW Centre for Ecosystem Science and Charles Sturt researchers, state and federal environmental water managers, and traditional owners.  On Ecovoice.com.au , March 10, ABC Central Victoria FM, ABC West Victoria AM, ABC Ballarat FM, ABC Goulburn Murray, March 11, Riverine Grazier, April 28.

This week in Politics

Associate Professor Dominic O’Sullivan spoke about the federal government position regarding the Christian Porter rape allegations, that it cannot afford to lose any more members or it would lose its majority in the House of Representatives.  He also spoke on the Truth and Justice Commission being established in Victoria, and treaty negotiations and understanding colonisation impacts on ABC Western Plains, ABC Central West, March 10.

Rethinking housing design

Because of the new reality that COVID-19 will not be the last coronavirus pandemic Associate Professor Dirk Spennemann argues the need for future proofing new residential buildings in Charles Sturt University News Opinion, March 11, Ecovoice.com.au, March 11.

Science Chat

Dr Maggie Watson discussed the beneficial role parasites play in priming the immune system in humans and in bird populations of Crested Terns, ABC Shepparton FM, ABC Goulburn Murray, March 16.

Victorian Liberal Party

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan unpacked the failed challenge to the Victorian state Liberal party leader Michael O’Brien on ABC Shepparton FM, ABC Goulburn Murray, ABC Gippsland, March 16.

This week in Politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan discussed the issues surrounding the COVID vaccine roll out and the outbreak in Papua New Guinea, the women’s march on Monday and the Government’s mishandling of the Brittany Higgins issue on ABC Central West, March 17.

Senate Sports Grant Inquiry

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan says the timing of the COVID-19 pandemic diverted the public’s attention from the sports grant rorts and it is now politically important for the opposition to get this back on the political agenda on ABC Goulburn Murray, ABC Gippsland, March 18.

Mouse plague risk in tank water supply

Mice carcasses, urine or faeces can carry common bacteria like Leptospirosis, salmonella, campylobacter and other viruses that can persist in water tanks for some time. Associate Professor Peter Andrews spoke of the health risks posed by using contaminated water that comes into close contact with people,  not just consumption but even hosing down yards or sprinklers on ABC Coffs Coast FM, ABC New England North West, ABC Illawarra, ABC Mid North Coast, March 18

Courtship rituals off tune

A new study has found Regent Honeyeaters have failed to learn the songs they need for courtship and other evolutionary business. Professor David Watson said this is what the extinction of a species sounds like, “it doesn’t happen with a bang but with a slow drawn out whimper.” AustralianNewsReview.com March 18, DRNext. In  March 19, Grantshala.com, March 20, Lovebylife.com, March 20.

Eucalypt of the Year

Richard McLellan spoke about National Eucalypt day and the voting for the eucalypt of the year, having favourite trees from your local area, the Darwin Woolly Butt and his choice this year, the Gimmlet, (Eucalyptus salubris) on ABC Darwin, March 20.

5 Year Plan for Recovery

The NSW state government has released a new five year plan to help guide environmental recovery from the 2019 20 bushfires.  Associate Professor Dale Nimmo says a lack of monitoring has left big gaps in knowledge, it has been seen as something that has been optional, on ABC New England North West, March 23.

Greek Migration to Australia in the 1950s

Associate Professor Bruce Pennay shared the Greek migrants experience at Bonegilla on ABC Ballarat, ABC Mildura, ABC West Victoria, March 25.

Isolation may be the key to growing declining animal populations

ILWS PhD Student Harry Moore has made a discovery that could help save the lives of threatened northern quolls.  His findings can be used to help inform the establishment of mining sites in the Pilbara during the environmental impact assessment process and manage existing preserved areas. The story appeared in EcoVoice March 25. Harry was interviewed on ABC Kimberly, ABC North West WA, March 25.

Bringing fish back to the Barwon-Darling River

Research by Institute Adjunct Dr Martin Mallen-Cooper and Dr Brenton Zampatti from CSIRO was featured in an article on Finterest.com.au, March 25. https://finterest.com.au/bringing-fish-back-to-the-barwon-darling-river/

Wagga MP meets Premier

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan’s views on Joe McGirr and the position of the minority NSW government were mentioned in The Daily Advertiser, March 26, The Weekend Advertiser, March 27.

Migrants create a booming district

A new report released by the University of South Australia praises entrepreneurial Hazara refugees from Afghanistan for revitalising the Port Adelaide Enfield LGA into a vibrant thriving hub.  ILWS researcher Professor Branka Krivokapic-Skoko contributed to the research, The Advertiser, March 29.

Wildlife recovery after the fires

Associate Professor Dale Nimmo spoke about his research into animals affected by the 2019-20 bushfires says it is too early to tell how well the recovery is going on animal populations, with impacts understood to last for over 100 years from a fire, on ABC Gippsland, ABC Shepparton, March 30.

Lumholtz’s tree kangaroos

Associate Professor Andrew Peters was mentioned in an article on Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroos going blind, za.opera.news, March 31.

Crayfish nursed back to health

A story on returning the Murray crayfish to the river below the Hume dam  featured the Charles Sturt aquatic facilities and Professor Lee Baumgartner and Dr Katie Doyle on Ecovoice.com.au., March 31.

NSW politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan spoke on the resignation of NSW MP Michael Johnsen and the complexities of the situation with Andrew Laming in Federal Parliament on ABC Central West, March 31.

April

The Science of stuff

Dr John Rafferty spoke about The Dish in Parkes NSW and its role in the Apollo 11 moon landing on ABC Goulburn Murray, ABC Shepparton, April 1.

Aged care providers and funding

Associate Professor Maree Bernoth responded to the Aged Care Inquiry about the claim that some rural and regional aged care facilities will go out of business if they are required to have a registered nurse on site 24/7.  The Lamp, The Magazine of The NSW Nurses and Midwives; Association Volume 78, No 2, April/May, April 7.

The week in federal politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan discussed government priorities , budgets, over promises, and big spending projects on ABC Western Plains, ABC Central West, April 7.

Upper Hunter NSW  by-election

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan commented on the upcoming by-elections in the Upper Hunter and Wagga Wagga in The Daily Advertiser, April 8.

Australia feels heat on climate challenge

Professor Kevin Parton commented Australia’s delays in moving to a proper climate change policy on  ChinaDaily.com.au, April 12, China Daily Hong Kong, April 19.

Island quolls lose fear of predators

Post Doctoral researcher Dr Chris Jolley shared the recent findings that northern quolls living on a island free of dingos and cane toads have lost their capacity to recognise predators in 13 generations and while they can be trained to avoid cane toads, teaching them to recognise all the risks of dingos is much more complex on ABC Shepparton FM, ABC Goulburn Murray, April 13.

From fires to floods  

Charles Sturt University in Port Macquarie in partnership with the International River Foundation and Port Macquarie Hastings Council hosted the Rivers on Fire Conference – The Journey to Resilience April 20-21.  ILWS members presenting included Associate Professor Andrew Hall delivering the welcome address, Dr Jessica Tout-Lyon and Dr Alexandra Knight, Adjuncts Dr Luis Silva and Luke Pearce. The story appeared in MacquariePortNews.com.au, April 20

Rewilding predators back into ecosystems

Dr Maggie Watson spoke on the approach of reintroducing carnivores and top predators to bring back the entire functioning ecosystem, the Grampians proposal to reintroduce dingos and the challenges of interactions between wildlife and people on ABC Ballarat, ABC Mildura FM, ABC Goulburn Murray, ABC West Victoria, April 20.

Impact of fires and floods

Dr Alexandra Knight was interviewed about her personal first-hand experience of the impacts of both floods and fires and the purpose of the Rivers on Floods and Fires conference being held at the Charles Sturt campus of Port Macquarie, ABC Mid North Coast NSW Radio, April 20.

The week in Politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan spoke on the impacts of the end of tax offsets for low to middle earners on the economy and its potential political problem for the government and the current debate on the superannuation guarantee on ABC Central West NSW, April 20.

Cane toad research

Ecologist post-doctoral researcher Dr Chris Jolley spoke on the issues of trapping cane toad tadpoles and the larger challenge finding ways to help our native wildlife impacted by cane toads on ABC Darwin, April 21.

Māori health

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan’s article “New authority could transform Māori health, but only if it is a leader, not a partner” appeared in The Conversation, Australian News Daily Bulletin.com.au, April 22.

Citizen Science programs

Dr John Rafferty spoke on the blood moon eclipse, drones, the Mars rover and helicopter, citizen science programs, apps like Australian Bird count, the Australian Citizen Science Association on ABC Shepparton FM, ABC Goulburn Murray, April 22.

The health of our river systems

Dr Alexandra Knight spoke her background as an amphibian ecologist and looking at the impacts of different pressures and land uses have on our rivers and streams, the Rivers on Fire and Flood conference and fish kills on 2BS 95.1 FM, April 26.

Plight Sandalwood trees in WA

PhD student Richard McLellan spoke of his findings half way through his research transect of 10 sites over 7 weeks across Western Australia, the high proportion of dead week, few signs of any regeneration of the sandalwood trees and the support of the traditional owners for this research on ABC Shepparton Fm, ABC Goulburn Murray, April 27.

Scientific integrity and public policy in the post-truth world of Australian water reform

Professor John Williams with co-authors Matt Colloff, Quentin Grafton an article examining the impediments to scientific integrity with an analysis of the water science-policy interface for the Murray-Darling Basin (MDB), Australia. They highlight the dangers to the public interest of ‘administrative capture’ of science and discuss how scientific integrity can be better protected. Globalwaterforum.org, April 27. https://globalwaterforum.org/2021/04/27/scientific-integrity-and-public-policy-in-the-post-truth-world-of-australian-water-reform/

Bid to ban shark nets

Research by Department Primary Industries, Charles Sturt University (Associate Professor Peter Simmons) and University Wollongong on shark control techniques was mentioned in a segment on KOFM, The Newcastle Herald, April 28.  An article about Northern Beaches Council supporting the ban on shark nets was in Manly Observer, April 28.

Mouse plague a health risk to those in Dubbo and wider region

Associate Professor Andrew Peters warns that disease from wild mice can spread to humans and domestic animals in the Daily Liberal, April 30, Jimboombatimes.com.au, May 3, ABC Western Plains, ABC South East NSW, May 3, TripleM Riverina 1152, May 4, Queensland Country Life, Jimboomba Times, May 5, The Land, May 6.

May

Bonegilla records being digitised

Associate Professor Bruce Pennay is working on a project to digitise more than 300,000 ID cards and records from the Bonegilla Migrant Centre on ABC Shepparton FM, ABC Goulburn Murray, ABC News.net.au, Press From.info, May 1.

You probably don’t need to worry about ‘drinking more water’

Professor Frank Marino says the reason we drink water to regulate salt content in a story on drinking more water in The Sydney Morning Herald, May 4.

Wildlife health and the public

Associate Professor Andrew Peters was interviewed about his research and new project, the establishment of the wildlife disease surveillance system in the Riverina, where people can report on wildlife health in their area on ABC Shepparton FM, ABC Goulburn Murray, May 4.

Talking Politics

Discussing the Indian Travel Ban and the breadth of opposition to the ban by those on both sides of politics, questioning why the Federal Government has not developed an adequate quarantine regime, Professor Dominic O’Sullivan spoke on ABC Central West NSW, May 5.

Stem Ambassadors to foster parliament’s links to science

Professor Lee Baumgartner has been selected as one of 17 new STEM Ambassadors.  He will be the STEM Ambassador to New South Wales Senator Perin Davey with the intent to work on NSW’s water policy. Science and Technology Australia, May 7, News Central Site, EcoVoice, The Border Mail, May 11, print version May 12. Story then picked up by the Narrandera Argus, May 27.

How the coronavirus pandemic is shifting global attitudes

Professor Manohar Pawar was quoted in a story on a survey of more than 22,000 people from 19 countries on changing attitudes and habits of consumers as they adapt to a new reality following COVID-19 in The Sydney Morning Herald, May 10.

Women key to solving shortages in skilled trades in regional areas

Associate Professor Larissa Bamberry spoke of the barriers for women entering trades and options and support for employers to hire and retain women in the skilled trades workforce to help fill shortages on ABC Coffs Coast FM, ABC Mid North Coast, ABC Central West, May 10, ABC Shepparton FM, ABC Goulburn Murray, May 11.Follow up story with Dr Donna Bridges in NBN News, May 24

The Lower Murray and Ramsar

Adjunct Professor Max Finlayson spoke about the lower Lakes in South Australia and the need for a wider community process to decide how to maintain the values of the site, the socio-economic issues and the Ramsar obligations under climate change on ABC Shepparton, ABC Goulburn Murray, May 10, ABC Broken Hill, ABC South East SA,  ABC Riverland, May 11. His comments from this interview were then repeated in an article in focussed on community group Speak Up 4 Water, in the Southern Riverina News, June 2, The McIvor Times , Narrandera Argus, June 3 and then in the Deniliquin Pastoral Times, June 4 and Country News, June 8.

Research Society Research Awards

Dr Clifford Lewis and former ILWS member Dr Michael Mehmet and now at the University of Wollongong were the recipients of the Most Inspiring Award for “Towards better practices in research the LGBTQI communities” at the Research Society Research Awards 2021-21 Awards night, announced during the society’s Human Insights Conference, May 6. Story May 12 http://www.researchnewslive.com.au/2021/05/12/human-insights-conference-presenters-awarded/

Happy International Nursing Day

Associate Professor Maree Bernoth, for Happy International Nursing Day, spoke about the big applications to study nursing at CSU as well as the importance of implementing changes to the aged care sector on ABC Central West, May 12.

2021 mouse plague and the inadvertent poisoning of rodent predators

Dr Maggie Watson says the over-reliance on second-generation rodenticides that kill vermin almost instantly, could be affecting rodent-feeding birds of prey as well. The Daily Advertiser, May 12, The Border Mail, May 17. Story was then picked up by Ecovoice, MSN-Australia, May 18. She did radio interviews on the subject on ABC NSW Country Hour aired throughout the state including ABC Western Plains, ABXC Coffs Coast, ABC Western Plains, ABC South East NSW, May 17 as well as another interview for ABC Goulburn Murray, May 18, and ABC Shepparton, ABC Central Wert NSW, ABC Western Plains, May 24. Maggie was also one of the co-authors of an article in The Conversation Mouse plague: bromadiolone will obliterate mice, but it’ll poison eagles, snakes and owls, too published May 21 which was picked up by Mirage News, May 21, The Latch, May 24 and the Molong Express, May 27The Land, June 2,  and the Jimboomba Times, June 3. That article was also referred to in a story “Australia’s mouse plague highlights low-tech response in high-tech era” in Nikkei Asia, June 17. She was also quoted in a story in the Daily Advertiser “NSW Mouse plague: Boom in snakes and predator birds a natural outcome” May 24 and a story in Science Alert A Literal Mouse Plague Is Terrorizing Towns in Eastern Australia Right Now,  which was picked up by international media,  PressFrom  and Jioforme, May 27 and Nature World News, May 28. Maggie was then interviewed on ABC Radio National for Late Night Live, May 31. https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/latenightlive/mice-plague/13366476

This was followed by radio interview on 2BS, June 3, where she detailed the long term effects of poisons used to kill mice. Then in response to  dead galahs being “collateral damage” in the fight against the mouse plague she did a radio interview with  ABC Goulburn Murray, June 4 - story on ABC News https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-06-04/bird-victims-of-suspected-mice-baiting/100187904 with quotes repeated in follow-up stories on ABC Central West NSW, ABC Central West NSW, ABC North Coast NSW, ABC Riverina June 5. Story was picked up by online news services PressFrom, and The New Daily, June 4 , and Ash London LIVE, June 7. She was also quoted in an article in The Daily Advertiser “2021 mouse plague: Anglers increasingly finding fish filled with mice” , June 4;  another story in About Regional “Poisonous debate rages as mice hunker down for winter”, June 12. https://aboutregional.com.au/poisonous-debate-rages-as-mice-hunker-down-for-winter/ and in Yahoo News Canada “Powerful owl deaths fuel concern mouse poisoning is spreading through food chain” June 12.  https://ca.news.yahoo.com/powerful-owl-deaths-fuel-concerns-200011488.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cDovL3RyYW5zaXRpb24ubWVsdHdhdGVyLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAG01tz5JVLwReLtYr8UFdpgRe_HamQfJz6o1h4ZlXLbRFalEOCrsPYSJiEJMYj0zF5n_dYUhX_1j5finKyz68pRyAGWXAn6wLj3PeFuiRE3kvJeTju1HJ0v_VQr5qml1aBDflbsQO7tLOXOCBGwfH-pMZjHvVXOLLWWqXocyPE7H

Further pick up in international media, www. Archynews.com, June 25. https://www.archynewsy.com/australia-is-bothered-by-overpopulated-mice-and-active-snakes-they-also-had-to-evacuate-the-prison/

Transparency a must

Associate Professor Maree Bernoth warns the public to remain sceptical of the aged care budget allocation in stories that ran in the Bendigo Weekly, May 15, The Wimmera Mail-Times, May 17; the Grenfell Record and Bland Advertiser, May 19; the  Eden Magnet, May 20; the Irrigator, May 21, the Mandurah Mail, May 27 and the Senior South Australia and the Senior NSW/ACT June 6.

This week in politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan spoke about the politics at play with Australia’s vaccine rollout on ABC Central West, May 26.

Care in handling mice

Associate Professor Peter Andrews warns that wild mice can be harmful to the health of humans and domestic animals in an article in about regional, May 27, the Central Western Daily, May 29 and The RiotACT, May 30. https://aboutregional.com.au/expert-urges-people-to-take-care-when-handling-wild-mice/.He was then interviewed on 2CC Talking Canberra, June 5.

Science of stuff

Dr John Rafferty talks about how the latest COVID outbreak might be the push that people need to get vaccinated, the red moon, yellow crazy ants, and sea urchins on ABC Goulburn Murray, May 27.

June

Feral horse issue

Professor David Watson gave his views on the continuing problem of feral horses in the High Country on ABC Shepparton and ABC Goulburn Murray, June 1.

This week in politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan, in his regular slot on ABC Central West and ABC Western Plains discussed the Government’s COVID-19 vaccination program, imp acts of the Melbourne outbreak on the New Zealand travel bubble, the aged care debacle and the impact on the Morrison Government among other things, June 2.

MEANFN profile

Institute Adjunct Dr Paul McInerney is profiled in the Middle East North Africa Financial Network, June 2. https://menafn.com/1102196090/Paul-McInerney&source=24

What’s living under that rock?

The Daily Liberal published a story about Damian Michael’s research into the farming practice of removing surface rocks and the threat to certain species June 3, with radio interviews on ABC Goulburn Murray June 4 and 2BS, June 5. Story in Country News, June 8 with further radio interviews on 2PK, 2DU, 2VM, 2MO, 4GY.

New Soil CRC project

There was a story in Get Farming  on the Soil CRC’s funding of 12 new research projects including Professor Mark Morrison’s project to examine soil stewardship certification potential, http://getfarming.com.au/2021/06/03/new-soil-research-aims-to-increase-agricultural-productivity/ June 3.

Dead galahs from mouse poison

Associate Professor Andrew Peters spoke about the death of galahs from mouse poisoning on 2BS, June 8.

Macquarie Perch story

Dr Katie Doyle spoke about her resent research project on Macquarie perch impacted by the bushfires on ABC Goulburn Murray, June 8.

This Week in Politics

On the 200^th time that political scientist Professor Dominic O’Sullivan did his radio char on ABC Central West NSW, he spoke about polls a bout how the political parties are doing and the hotel quarantine system, June 9.

Government response to Aged Care Royal Commission

Associate Professor Maree Bernoth has written an Opinion Piece “let’s scratch the surface of the government response to the Royal Commission before celebrating” that appeared in Aged Care Insider, June 9. https://www.agedcareinsite.com.au/2021/06/lets-scratch-the-surface-of-the-government-response-to-the-royal-commission-before-celebrating/

There was also an article “Why can’t the NSW Government lead the way with aged care reform” (CSU Media release) written by Maree, published in SeniorAu, June 12. http://www.seniorau.com.au/9771-why-can-t-the-nsw-government-lead-the-way-with-aged-care-reform

Also another article calling on the NSW Government to act now, in the Australian Ageing Agenda, June 18. https://www.australianageingagenda.com.au/executive/call-for-nsw-govt-to-act-on-aged-care-recommendations/

She was quoted again in the Aged Care Insite in an article “NSW inquiry calls for staff ratios to ease ‘burden’ on the sector” July 5.

2021 Queen’s Birthday Honours

Former ILWS member Associate Professor Faye McMillan, and the Institute’s inaugural director Professor Allan Curtis were each awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the 2021 Queen’s Birthday Honours. Story on Faye whose citation was “for significant service to Indigenous mental health, and to tertiary education”  in the Daily Advertiser, June 14 and Allan’s whose citation was “for significant service to environmental management education and research” in the Border Mail, June 14. There was a follow up story on Allan and his work and views in a follow-up story in the Myrtleford Times entitled “Environmental Warrior” June 17,and in the Wangaratta Chronicle, June 18.

Kiska research

An in-depth article based on Associate Professor Dirk Spennemann’s research on and photographs of the military relics from the World War 2 on the remote Kiska Island at the far end of Alaska Aleutian chain has been published in the Archaeological Institute of America’s magazine “Archaeology”, July/August 2021 issue. https://www.archaeology.org/issues/433-2107/letter-from/9780-alaska-wwii-battle

This week in politics

In his regular segment talking about the politics of the day Professor Dominic O’Sullivan discussed the differences between US Presidents Trump and  Biden’s  approaches at the G7 meeting; treasury modelling and tax cuts; QAnon and the Prime Minister, among other things on ABC Central West, June 16.

Stormwater plan

Institute Adjunct Professor David Goldney is urging the Bathurst Regional Council to reconsider its stormwater plan in an article in the Western Advocate, June 20.

Something small, something good

A book review on a new book International Treaties in Nature Conservation: a UK Perspective which was co-authored by Institute adjuncts Professor Max Finlayson and Dr Dave Pritchard  has been described as a “small book on a big subject” in a book review by UK writer, blogger and environmental campaigner Dr Mark Avery in his Sunday book review  https://markavery.info/2021/05/30/sunday-book-review-international-treaties-in-nature-conservation-by-stroud-d-a-et-al/ June 20.

“Brumby bill’ catastrophe for the high country

Institute adjunct Professor Max Finlayson was mentioned in an opinion piece by Clive Hamilton re Barilaro’s “brumby bill” being a catastrophe for the high country in the Sydney Morning Herald and the Brisbane Times, June 21.’

The great Sandalwood transect

Story in the Bush Heritage magazine’s BushTracks, Winter Edition, on PhD student Richard McLellan’s research on sandalwood and a recent 1500km trek from WA’s Gibson Desert to Shark Bay with his supervisor Professor Dave Watson and Honours student Murray Cheers. https://www.bushheritage.org.au/getmedia/815d973c-2b72-4d35-a0e9-bbd6e8849db1/BushTracks-Winter-21

Mention in Hansard

In a commonwealth parliamentary debate on the Water Act and the Murray Darling Basin Plan, Institute adjunct Professor Max Finlayson was quoted by Senator Bridget McKenzie “Wetland ecologist and associate professor at Charles Sturt University Max Finlayson is arguing for change— another scientist. I heard firsthand from him at our Senate hearing in Shepparton, along with local communities, about the devastation on our communities from the plan. The hard truth that science is telling is us that salty water entered the Lower Lakes over the top of the barrages….” June 23. https://www.aph.gov.au/api/hansard/link/?id=chamber/hansards/67f031e9-ecac-4d49-a907-c221da95e4c6/toc&linktype=pdf&fulltranscript=True

Response to rejection of mouse poison

Following the announcement than the Australian Pesticide and Veterinary Medicines Authority  won’t give approval to use bromadiolone  to crush the devastating NSW mouse plague, Dr Maggie Watson was interviewed on ABC’s AM and said that the poison poses an un acceptable risk to wildlife and livestock as it lasts in the environment between 130 and 180 days with a big risk of secondary poisoning. However she agreed that the poison currently being used, zinc phosphide, was a very effective poison and that she wasn’t opposed to its use right now. ABC Radio National, ABC Central West NSW, ABC Gippsland, ABC North West WA, ABC Esperance, ABC Goldfields, ABC South East SA, ABC News Radio,  June 24. She then did another, longer radio interview for 702 ABC Sydney, also aired on ABC Central Coast NSW, June 25 June 24. She was then interviewed by Region Media saying that now was not the time for complacency as the plague could re-emerge in spring, in an article in About Regional, June 30. https://aboutregional.com.au/no-to-bromadiolone-isnt-a-yes-for-mouse-plague-complacency/ and then the RiotACT, July 3.

This week in politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan discussed the National’s leadership spill with Barnaby Joyce now leader of the party and Deputy prime Minister and how this may affect Australia’s stance on committing to zero carbon emissions internationally, on ABC Central West NSW, June 23.

The Science of Stuff

Environmental scientist Dr John Rafferty in his regular segment on ABC Goulburn Murray and ABC Shepparton discussed hibernation, more extended torpor and whether or not organisms can come back to life after being frozen for extended periods of time, June 24.

Using sugar to kill weeds

Reference was made to the trials carried out by former ILWS member Associate Professor Ian Lunt on using sugar to kill/inhibit weds in a story on further trials on ABC Southern Queensland,91.7 ABC Coast FM, June 25.

Survey participants sought

Associate Professor Catherine Allan promoted a social research project  (as part of the MER- Edward/Kolety-Wakool project) which has just put out a survey looking for perspectives on water for the environment from people along the NSW-Victoria border who have a connection to the Edward/Kolety-Wakool River system, on ABC Goulburn Murray, ABC Shepparton, June 25. Story published in Southern Riverina News, July 7 and the Deniliquin Pastoral Times, July 9. Story about the deadline for the survey being extended to July 24 in the Southern Riverina news, July 15 and the Deniliquin Pastoral Times, July 23.

Unemployment rates in regional areas in April

Dr Larissa Bamberry says it is not uncommon for unemployment rates in regional communities to be high in the month of April because of seasonal work, on ABC Mid North Coast NSW, June 28.

Making COVID vaccination mandatory for those working in aged care

Associate Professor Maree Bernoth spoke about the government’s decision to make a COVID vaccination mandatory for those working in aged care and how there needs to be a system for an effective rollout on ABC North Coast NSW, ABC Western Plains, ABC Mid North Coast, ABC Riverina, ABC Coffs Coast, June 29.

Bring it forward

In response to the announcement by the Fair Work Commission will raise the national minimal wage by 2.5%, Associate Professor Larissa Bamberry said the retail sector in particular needed to consider bringing the start date of the increase payments forward (as Woolworths has done) as we’ve been hi8ghly dependent on our front line workers in the retail sector since COVID, in an article in the Daily Liberal, June 30.

This week in politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan talked about the political response to the current COVID out breaks and a new government  report which has  predicted 40 years of budget deficits, the slowing of population growth which will impact on supporting our ageing population, possible changes to the tax system, alternative energy sources … all of which will lead to big policy debates in the future, on ABC Central West NSW, June 30.

Stories in Lateral Lines

The June issue of Lateral Lines, the Australian Society for Fish Biology newsletter, featured a number of articles on the research work of our members including "Long-term effects of the 2019–20 Bushfires—water quality and Murray crayfish" co-authored by Luke Pearce (ILWS Adjunct and NSW DPI), Dr Katie Doyle, Dr Maggie Watson, Professor Lee Baumgartner, and Professor Darren Baldwin (CSU Adjunct); "Macca’s Back in the Macquarie after a 70 year Absence" with Luke Pearce lead author; "Phoenix Fish Rising from the Ashes" by Luke Pearce, Dr Katie Doyle, and Cameron McGregor; a summary of the activities of the CSU Fish Team as well as Associate Professor Raf Freire's research on fish behaviour processes. https://static1.squarespace.com/.../ASFB+Newsletter+June...

Are hatchery-bred Murray cod too bold for the wild?

Story on a paper in Fish Parasitology co-authored by ILWS members Leia Rogers, Dr Keller Kopf, Associate Professor Raf Freire and colleagues in the June issue of Finterest. Are hatchery-bred Murray cod too bold for the wild? – Finterest

July

Travel with the experts

A story in the Australian Geographic as part of its “Travel with the experts” series about Associate Professor Melanie Massaro who will be sharing her passion for Australian seabirds on Lord Howe Island, for an upcoming Australian Geographic Society Expedition September 5-10, 2022. Article published July 5.

New Zealand’s He Puapua report and Indigenous people’s rights

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan’s Opinion Piece in The Conversation Separatist or radically inclusive? What NZ’s He Puapua report really says about the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, was published July 7 and picked up in the Australian Daily Bulletin, July 7.

Recognition of Research Impact of conservation work on Lord Howe Island

The story about Associate Professor Melanie Massaro's research work on Lord Howe Island being  selected by the NSW Chief Scientist and Engineer for inclusion in the 2021 NSW Research Impact Showcase was picked up by EcoVoice, July 7.

This week in politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan in his regular session on ABC Central West discussed the Government’s decision that staff working in aged care need to be vaccinated and the blackmail scandal that led to the Bathurst mayor having to resign, July 7.

Violence against women seminar

There was an interview about a CSU webinar coming up on July 14, Violence against women in regional and rural areas, on ABC Riverina July 7.

Australia All Over

Professor David Watson rang up to speak to guest presenter Warwick Long on Macca’s Australia All Over ABC Sunday morning radio program, July 11. David spoke about his recent desert trip, conditions, and the acoustic monitoring project. https://www.abc.net.au/radio/programs/australiaallover/australia-all-over/13431336

Platypus population collapse

Story on Institute Adjunct Professor David Goldney’s report, commissioned by the Winburndale Waters Conservation Group (WWCG), on the distribution, abundance and conservation status of the platypus and native water rat in the Winburndale Rivulet near Bathurst which has found the two species could be extinct in the waterway.  He says the Bathurst council's refusal to fulfil its environmental release requirements for 16 years, including during drought, had maintained a "flow deficit" in the rivulet. ABC News, July 13.   https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-07-13/bathurst-regional-council-blamed-for-platypus-decline/100286148There was a follow-up story “NSW Land and Environment Court set to settle Winburndale dispute” in the Western Advocate, July 15. https://www.westernadvocate.com.au/story/7339757/council-nrar-await-court-decision-regarding-winburndale-licence-dispute/

“Miracle fish” that survived a bushfire

CSU media release on the “miracle fish” that survived the summer bushfires – some Macquarie perch in the Mannus creek – based on research by Dr Katie Doyle, Cameron McGregor and NSW DPI Fisheries (Luke Pearce) funded by Murray LLS picked up by EcoVoice, July 14, in the Daily Advertiser, July 15; in About Regional https://aboutregional.com.au/the-miracle-rare-fish-that-survived-the-black-summer-bushfires and in the Border Mail, July 16, and in the Cootamundra Herald, July 20. Also mention in the Border Mail’s fishing report, July 24.

This week in politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan, in his regular segment, talks about Australia being the position it is with COVID 19 lockdowns because it seems the Australian government didn’t order enough Pfizer vaccine (poor public administration as Malcolm Turnbull called it earlier in the week); how the NSW Premier has handled everything and the possible voter backlash; and the Victorian Premier’s  reaction to the Prime minister’s announcement of  financial support for those in lockdown in Sydney, on ABC Central West,  July 14.

Protecting Sloane’s froglet

Dr Alexandra Knight spoke about the importance of protecting Sloane’s froglets and the efforts undertaken by the Corowa Landcare Group and local schools on ABC Goulburn Murray, July 15.

Community urged to continue domestic violence support

There was a story in the Weekend Advertiser about a three year project aimed at preventing domestic and family violence in Wagga Wagga and promoting gender equity, which involves Dr Stacey Jenkins, published July 17 and in The Rural, July 22.

Wombat burrows

Story about Associate Professor Dale Nimmo’s new innovation grant from the World Wildlife Foundation - Australia’s Regenerate Australia program which will test the theory that wombat burrows provide a safe haven for many animals during fires and a place to hide from predators afterwards, in Ecovoice, July 20.   Also mention of Dr Jodie Price’s grant Seed enhancement technologies to restore severely burned landscapes. https://www.ecovoice.com.au/tiny-solar-panel-could-help-save-koalas-from-bushfires/ Also picked up by Third Sector Magazine, July 22.

Benefits of environmental watering

Interview with Dr Damian Michael about his discovery of the grey snake close to the Murrumbidgee River in 2018, which had been in hiatus for about 65 years with no records logged in the Australian Atlas during that time, and the benefits we are seeing of environmental watering, on ABC Shepparton, July 20.

Science of Stuff

Dr John Rafferty in his regular segment on ABC Goulburn Murray and ABC Shepparton discussed what the Anthropocene and the changes made to the natural system by humans, Paul Crewdson, a Dutch chemist who among other things in the early 80s alerted the world to the damage being caused to the ozone layer from CFCs, July 22.

Mistletoe study

Reference was made to Professor David Watson’s research on mistletoes in a radio interview with Dr Don Sands from CSIRO on ABC Radio National July 25 and again on July 29.

Impact of COVID-19 on front line workers

A CSU study, led by professor Russell Roberts,  on the impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of front line workers  such as paramedics and police officers was picked up by on Power FM Hunter Valley July 25 after an in-depth interview with Professor Roberts was aired on ABC 24 News July 23. Then a story in the Central Western Daily, July 27,Namoi Valley Independent, July 28, Daily Liberal, July 28, Daily Advertiser, July 29, and then an interview with Associate Professor Larissa Bamberry in the  Border Mail, and on Prime 7 Albury and  Prime Central West, July 29, July 30; Western Advocate, July 31. Radio coverage on 2BS 95.1 FM, July 28. 9. News also referred to the study in a report on the issue, July 31. International coverage on NewsFinale, July 31. Further coverage included a story with Dr Stacey Jenkins, Pandemic takes a toll on frontline workers, in the Daily Advertiser, August 3, and with Professor Russell Roberts in the Dubbo Mailbox, August 4 and the Canowindra Phoenix, August 5.

Artificial refuges are a popular stop gap

An article in The Conversation Artificial refuges are a popular stopgap for habitat destruction, but the science isn’t up to scratch co-authored  by PhD student Mitch Cowan, Associate Professor Dale Nimmo, on artificial refugees for  native birds and animals, was picked up by Mirage News,  July 28. Mitch then did radio interviews for 702 ABC Sydney, July 29; 720 ABC Perth, July 31, ABC Goulburn Murray and ABC Gippsland, August 3 and then ABC South East NSW, August 9.

This week in Politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan, in his regular radio segment on ABC Central West talked about last weekend’s protests around the country against various lockdowns and COVID-19 restrictions and our political leaders’ responses, comparisons to the Black Lives Matter protests last year , and the Royal Commission into Aboriginal deaths in custody, July 28.

New technology to detect weeds

Associate Professor Lihong Zheng is a member of a Graham Centre research team looking at ways to improve the way remote sensing technologies can be used to detect weeds in complex ecological landscapes, with story in Farming Ahead, July 29, Highlands Online News, July 31,  AgTrader, August 1, in the Great Lakes Advocate, August 2, MidCoast Council partner in research program using remote detection technologies to fight weeds | Great Lakes Advocate | Forster, NSW and the Manning River Times, August 4. Radio interviews with project leader Dr Jane Kelly on ABC Western Plains, ABC Central West, 4GY, August 2,2BH, 2VM August 5. Other stories in the Gloucester Advocate, August 6 and Australian Grain, August 7 and the Great Lakes Advocate, August 19.

Fiji’s other crisis

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan’s Opinion Piece in the Conversation Fiji’s other crisis: away from the COVID emergency, political dissent can still get you arrested was picked up by the Australia Daily Bulletin, July 29 and the Mauritius Times, August 3.

Call for a higher wall

Institute Adjunct Professor David Goldney was mentioned as an advocate for Bathurst City Council considering alternative projects to increase the city’s water security in an article in the Western Advocate, July 30.

August

More migration to the Mid North Coast

Professor John Hicks says a second wave of COVID in NSW may cause more migration to the Mid North Coast but the biggest problem would then be finding employment in an article in the Macleay Argus, August 4, print edition August 10, and the Area News, August 5.

This week in politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan in his regular radio segment discussed the need for different advertising to target people who did not want to get vaccinated or who were still undecided because of the mixed messaging from political leaders, Labor’s suggestion of a $300 incentive for people to get vaccinated and the continued lack of vaccine supplies on ABC Central West, August 4.

Swooping magpies

Professor Dave Watson spoke about swooping magpies and the chance of two breeding seasons for magpies this spring on Prime 7 Albury, and Wagga Wagga August 10.https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=238662821330853&id=113992652021218

Cost of Border closures

Associate Professor Rachel Whitsed spoke about the cost to the community and economy of border closures and restrictions on ABC Goulburn Murray, August 10.

Hump day program on 2BS

2BS ran a special “hump day” program on Wednesday August 8 looking how humans interact with their environment which featured:

• Institute Adjunct Professor David Goldney has been working on a project for three thematic self-guided tours looking at its ecology, geology, archaeology, culture and history, around the Bathurst region through the Bathurst City Council as a way of helping people understand the landscape.
• Dr John Conallin speaking on the management of our rivers, streams and wetlands including their restoration
• Institute Adjunct Ashley Bland who is the chair of Greening Australian Bathurst
• Central West Council’s environment and waterways alliance director Mick Callan who is also the Founding Director at Habitat Innovation & Management (former ILWS Honours student)

Effect of fire on native animals

Fire ecologist Associate Professor Dale Nimmo spoke on the effect of fire on native animals, how many of them can adapt, how more parts of the landscape are becoming fire prone and the need for more research to find out more, on ABC Gippsland, ABC Goulburn Murray, ABC Shepparton, August 17. He and Dr Chris Jolly are also the co-authors of an article in The Conversation Some animals have excellent tricks to evade bushfire. But flames might be reaching more animals naive to the dangers published August 19 which was picked up Hashtag Australia, and the Australian Daily Bulletin, August 19.

Climate change policy in Australia

Following his CSU News Opinion Piece on some of the key questions on climate change policy in Australia, Professor Kevin Parton was interviewed by 2BS, August 19.

The Science of Stuff

As part of his regular segment on ABC Goulburn Murray and ABC Shepparton, Dr John Rafferty spoke about birds, making ricotta and Science Week in general, August 19.

COVID 19 and essential workers

Associate Professor Maree Bernoth spoke about the difficulties that COVID 19 is creating for attracting people to work in the Aged Care sector and how COVID has shone a light on how important our aged care workers are in the community, just like our retail workers (commenting also on the fact that some are being abused) on ABC Newcastle, ABC Upper Hunter, August 19.

Australian frogs on the brink of extinction

Associate Professor Skye Wassens is a co-author of a paper in Pacific Conservation Biology which was featured in an article in ABC Science, Australian frogs are on the brink of extinction, and four species likely already lost, scientists say August 20.

Impact of mice plague

Dr Maggie Watson was featured on an ABC News podcast, “Going home to a mice plague” talking about birds that have died from eating mice that have been poisoned which she and a team of others are collecting and studying, August 20. https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/offtrack/going-home-to-mice-plague/13499204 Followed by an interview on ABC Radio National explaining how the poisons work, August 22.

Humanitarian perspectives

Professor Manohar Pawar following World Humanitarian Day last week spoke about the humanitarian perspective of the situation in Afghanistan and also the three C’s – climate change, conflict and the COVID-19 pandemic, saying that humanitarians crises are increasing, on 2BS, August 23.

This week in politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan shares his views on the political debate about COVID 19 lock downs, restrictions and different states doing different things and how the terminology used means different things to different states, in his regular segment on ABC Central West, August 25.

Seed technology research

PhD student Thomas Munro spoke about his research which is looking at seed technology in terms of restoring degraded ecosystems across Australia, in particular where there has been mining and agriculture, on ABC Shepparton, and ABC Goulburn Murray, August 31.

September

This week in politics

Associate Professor Dominic O’Sullivan discusses how Australia’s current pandemic is impacting on the politics of the day including the Prime Minister’s hope/belief that high vaccination rates will allow the economy to safely reopen, in the lead up to a federal election on ABC Western Plains and ABC Central West, September 1.

Carpet snake in Benalla

Dr Damian Michael was called upon for his knowledge of snakes for a story about a carpet snake found in Benalla on ABC Goulburn Murray, September 2. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-09-02/northeast-victoria-python-believed-to-be-former-pet/100428870

The brumby debate

Professor David Watson and his stance on the brumbies in Kosciusko National Park was referred to in an interview on the subject aired on ABC Sydney, Sept 2.

Make environments so aged care staff and leaders want to stay

Associate Professor Maree Bernoth expressed her opinion on the Aged care sector and the changes that need to be made so that staff and leaders want to stay in an opinion piece in the Australian Ageing Agenda, (Print version) September 6.

$3.6m funding for water research

The announcement that CSU has involved in securing $3.6 million funding from the Australian Government's Regional Research Collaboration program for the Next Generation Water Engineering and River Management Hub, led by Professor Lee Baumgartner was reported on in the Harden Murrumburrah Express, the National Tribune  September 7; the Border Mail, the Yass Tribune September 8. Radio interviews with Professor Lee Baumgartner about the new hub on ABC Shepparton, September 9. Also a story in Country News, Sept 11 and 14,and the Australian Water Association’s “Water source” publication, Sept 22. https://watersource.awa.asn.au/technology/innovation/new-hub-facilitate-waterway-management-regional-australia/

Future of collaboration to investigate our region’s natural resources

As part of social science week, Dr Wes Ward spoke about his webinar “From the horses’ mouth: the past, present and future of collaboration to investigate our regions’ natural resources, held September 7, on 2BS Bathurst, September 7.

Wired for Sound: The observatory that’s always listening

Professor David Watson spoke with Ian Connellan on the CosmosMagazine.com about the Australian Acoustic Observatory research project, the research being done by Dr Liz Znidersic, Dr Michael Towsey and A2O's potential for future research ideas on September 7. This research story is also featured as the cover story in Cosmos Magazine issue 92, released on September 2.  https://cosmosmagazine.com/science/wired-for-sound-the-observatory-thats-always-listening

History of Albury

To coincide Social Science Week, Institute Adjunct Associate Professor Bruce Pennay spoke about a series of three you tube videos on the history of Albury (which was proclaimed a city in 1946) on the Albury and District Historical Society ‘s web site entitled ‘From the ground Up’ , the morning of an on-line Public lecture, Sept 8, on ABC Goulburn Murray, September 8.

Regional Australia Mental Health Research and Training Institute

Reports on the new Regional Australia Mental Health Research and Training Institute, which been funded by a $3.66 million Commonwealth grant for three years, and of which Professor Russel Roberts is the CSU lead for the project, were in the Northern Daily Leader, September 8. Also interviews with Prof Roberts on 2BS, Sept 11. Also an interview about how the chronic underfunding of regional mental health has led to the establishment of the new training institute, on ABC News Radio,  ABC North Queensland, Sept 15,ABC Radio National, September 18.

Amphibian Education kit

Corowa District Landcare has partnered with researchers from CSU (Dr Alexandra Knight) to put together an Amphibian Education Kit. Reported on Prime 7 Albury, September 8.

This week in Politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan talked about the political implications of the current COVID-19 outbreaks and how the various Premiers and the Prime Minister have dealt with it in terms of impact on future state and federal elections, on ABC Western Plains and ABC Central West, September 8.

Outcomes of ARC supported research

Associate Professor Dale Nimmo’s research funded by an ARC Discovery Early Career Researcher Award (DECRA)  into the movements of animals in fire-prone landscapes was featured in the Australian Research Council (ARC)’s 2020-2021 digital edition of Making a Difference—Outcomes of ARC supported research, (page 93) published September 8. https://www.arc.gov.au/news-publications/publications/making-a-difference/making-a-difference-outcomes-arc-supported-research-2020-21

Older Caregivers

Story about a research project led by Dr Belinda Cash looking for participants in a survey on older rural caregivers in the Daily Advertiser, September 9.Also an interview with Dr Cash on 2BS, September 10 with reports in Highlands Online News,  Bendigo Weekly, Sept 11, SeniorAu, Sept 13, Jimboomba Times, and The Irrigator, Sept 14.  Then another interview for Dr Cash on ABC Goulburn Murray, Sept. 14, aired also on ABC West Victoria, ABC Mildura, story in the Hawkesbury Gazette, Busselton-Dunsborough Mail, September 15, Lithgow Mercury, Young Witness, September 17, Jimboomba Times, and a short interview on ABC Riverina September 22. The story appeared in Mandurah Mail, Great Lakes Advocate and TheSenior.com.au September 30; the Manning River Times, October 1, and The Senior NSW/ACT, the Senior South Australia October 2.

Going outside for counselling

An article in The Conversation Counselling almost always happens in a room — what if more people had the option of going outside? About using the outdoors for therapeutic purposes, especially in light of COVID 19, by Dr Will Dobud was published September 9. Then picked up by the Australian Daily Bulletin, September 14. The story was republished on Hellocare.com.au, September 27.

Hollows to protect wildlife

Dr Alexandra Knight is providing scientific advice with Hastings Landcare who aim to install 190 nest boxes and hollows in the Hastings Region as part of its bushfire recovery works as featured in a story in the Port Macquarie News, September 10. A shorter article mentioning Dr Alex Knight with a call for expressions of interest in the Port Macquarie News October 1.   https://www.portnews.com.au/story/7424619/landcares-habitat-hollows-program-protects-precious-wildlife/

Geoff Craig Memorial talk

Institute adjunct Dr Rik Thwaites, an environmental scientist, will deliver this year’s Geoff Craig Memorial Talk on Sunday 26 at the Stanley Memorial Hall exploring the question ‘Community as climate leaders: If not us, who then?” as reported in the Ovens & Murray Advertiser, Sept 10.

Anniversary of September 11

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan has written an Opinion Piece for Open Forum September 11 2001: 20th anniversary reflections on freedom, democracy and Australia’s place in the world , published Sept 11.

This week in politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan, in his regular radio segment, spoke about the political stories of the week including the future of the ALP; NSW Premier’s decision Gladys Berejiklian not to appear at every daily media release and possible amendment to anti-discrimination laws if venues etc make vaccination mandatory, on ABC Central West, September 15.

Launch of the adapting to salinity project

The launch of the Adapting to Salinity in the Southern Indus Basin project was featured in Pakistan media the Technology Times, Sindh Courier, Daily Outcome, Dawn, Pakistan Observer, Trending News, the Diplomat Insight, USPCAS-W Mehran University, September 21. https://www.technologytimes.pk/2021/09/21/govt-to-launch-2-5-year-project-to-improve-salinity-affected-areas-of-pakistan/

Community resilience

Associate Professor Val Ingham spoke about a presentation she will be giving on the bonds between the community and emergency organisations during disasters on ABC Capricornia, Sept 22.

Parliamentary inquiry into the legality of flood plain harvesting and whether it should be licensed

Institute Adjunct Dr Martin Mallen-Cooper told the Select committee on floodplain harvesting that the inquiry was a ‘line in the sand’ in future water policy and that any new developments in floodplain harvesting after a cap introduced in 1995 were not compliant, in a story on ABC Central West NSW, ABC Western Plains, ABC New England, September 23.

This week in politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan discussed Christian Porter’s resignation from his ministerial position, Australia’s decision to break its contract with France for some new submarines and instead order nuclear-powered submarines in a deal with the UK and the riots in Melbourne from anti-vaxers and protesters in the construction industry in what was a very busy week in politics, on ABC Central West NSW, September 22.

Parliamentary Inquiry into the legality of flood plain harvesting

Dr Martin Mallen-Cooper spoke at the inquiry on Wednesday September 24 and was reported on ABC Riverina FM saying the Inquiry is a line in the sand in the future of water policy.  September 23. His interview and the story also appeared on ABC Mid North Coast, September 23.

The science of Stuff

Dr John Rafferty spoke on his regular radio segment on the benefits of enjoying nature, recommending the Victorian Nature Festival which runs until Sunday 26 September and recommending daily walks and getting out into nature during lockdown.  He also addressed and the earthquake this week on ABC Goulburn Murray, ABC Shepparton FM, September 23.

The sun’s shining and snakes are emerging, but they’re not out to get you. Here’s what they’re really up to

Dr Chris Jolly is a co-author on a story on the behaviour and psychology of snakes which appeared in The Conversation, September 24. The story appeared in the online Toorak Times tagg.com.au, September 28 https://theconversation.com/the-suns-shining-and-snakes-are-emerging-but-theyre-not-out-to-get-you-heres-what-theyre-really-up-to-168089 and in Country News, October 2. Dr Jolly was then interviewed on the subject on 2BS, October 2. Also published in Gizmodo Australia, October 6, and BlueHostNews, November 15.

Student studies koala diet

Recipient of an ILWS honours scholarship in Session 2, 2021, Teresa Cochrane was featured in a story on her research into the diet preferences of koalas in Port Macquarie News, September 24.

Wetland birds acoustic research

Dr Liz Znidersic spoke on her work in the  two-year research project ‘Eavesdropping on wetland birds’ funded by a $400,000 philanthropic grant, the University’s largest. She shared the challenges of finding birds in wetlands amongst the dense vegetation, and the benefits of using technology like acoustic recorders and remote cameras which record 24/7 and how they are using computer technology AI to analyse all the terabytes of data on 2BS 95.1FM, September 28. She was interviewed by ABC Goulburn Murray, ABC Shepparton FM, September 30.

This week in politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan spoke about the concerns of constituents in inner-city seats about climate change impacts and the position of the Federal Nationals who say the cost of net zero is being borne by farmers and rural manufacturers, that the Federal Nationals remain wedded to jobs in coal.  In contrast the NSW State Liberals and Nationals are focussed on developing alternative industries for regional communities.  Will the Prime Minister attend the Glasgow meeting? Internationally there is strong pressure to commit to net zero emissions by 2050 but it is a very difficult political situation for the coalition government, which is genuinely divided, on ABC Central West, September 29.

October

Creating a pollinator garden to support local biodiversity

Dr Felicity Small is the team leader for a project calling for volunteers to create a pollinator garden on the Bathurst campus to help address the decline in pollinators, as reported on in the Western Advocate, Sept 3, on Ten Central West (TV) October 4, 2BS, October 5, Campus Morning Mail, October 7, and 2BS, October 12. Then, after it was built, there was a follow up story in the Western Advocate, October 29.

Is it time to stop using the term ‘wilderness’?

Associate Professor Dale Nimmo was one of a number of scientists giving their views in an ABC News article 'Wilderness' evokes untouched landscapes, but can erase Indigenous people. Is it time to stop using the term?’ saying that his perception of landscapes has changed since working with different Indigenous communities. "People are part of nature, so they need to be part of the equation when you're thinking about how ecosystems work," he says. Picked up by MSN Australia, PressFrom-Germany and the sixnews.com October 2.

Resignation of NSW Premier, Deputy Premier and Transport Minister

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan says that the resignation of NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian, Deputy Premier John Barilaro, and Transport Minister Andrew Constance could mean an electoral backlash for the Liberal-National coalition, and that there is a possibility the balance of power could shift to minor parties and independents like Wagga MP Joe McGirr. Story in the Daily Advertiser, October 4 with radio interviews on ABC Goulburn Murray and ABC Shepparton, October 4.

Culling brumbies in the Kosciuszko National Park

Professor David Watson was speaking about NSW Government’s draft plan to cull brumbies in the Kosciuszko National Park saying that it should look at culling more horses than proposed and discussed the impracticalities of the plan and what still needs to be worked out, on ABC Riverina, ABC Western Plains, ABC South-East NSW, ABC Central West, October 5, ABC South East NSW, October 6. Following on from this he and Dr Maggie Watson were co-authors of an Opinion Piece in The Conversation Feral horses will rule one third of the fragile Kosciuszko National Park under a proposed NSW government plan, which was republished as a CSU News Opinion and picked up by Mirage News, October 8, Over60, October 11.

This week in politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan had plenty to discuss on his regular radio segment this week with the announcement of the three resignations in the NSW Government and the changes/upheavals that has caused as well as how the Prime Minister might react (in terms of calling a Federal election before Christmas), on ABC Central West NSW, October 6.

Sloane’s froglet

Adjunct Dr Helen Waudby was on ABC Goulburn Murray talking about the Sloane’s froglet, for a citizen science project, October 7

Plight of sandalwood

An ABC On-line News story Native sandalwood extinction fears sparks push for plantation farming featuring ILWS PhD student Richard McLellan, which is based on ILWS research and a new research paper, has had excellent pick up by other media including MSN Australia, Mirage News, the Nam News Network,  and oriental.news October 7. Richard and Professor David Watson were co-authors of an article in The Conversation, Loved to death: Australian sandalwood is facing extinction in the wild,  October 8, which was republished as a CSU News Opinion and by tag. Australian Geographic News republished the Conversation article as Love sandalwood? It's facing extinction. Here's why. October 8. Richard also did a radio interview on 2BS, 720 ABC Perth, October 8.

Bonus payment for aged care sector

Bonus payments for registered nurses who stay in the aged care sector are a welcome start, but it is concerning that providers apply for the bonus on behalf of nurses, says Associate Professor Maree Bernoth in a story in the Australian Ageing Agenda, October 8. https://www.australianageingagenda.com.au/executive/aged-care-rns-eligible-for-commitment-bonus/

Riverina skills audit study

A study undertaken by ILWS researchers and Riverina RDA has found almost half of the region’s jobs vacancies were unfilled in the past year due to skills shortages as reported in the Daily Advertiser, October 12, and on Nine Central West, October 12, ABC Riverina, October 13 and The Land, Highland online News,  October 15.

Effect of disasters on river systems

Researchers Dr Alexandra Knight and Dr Jessica Tout-Lyon, who have studied the complex interactions multiple disasters such as bushfires and floods can have on river systems, were featured in an article about the work of NSW climate change researchers in the Northern Territory News and and nine others News Corp. publications, Oct 12.

This week in politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan in his regular segment on ABC Radio discussed the alleged branch-stacking within the ALP, the Nationals and the Federal Government about an agreeing to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and other tensions within the Coalition on ABC Central West NSW, October 13.

3d printed hollows

Story about former Honours student Mick Callan and professor David Watson’s work on developing 3D printed hollows that can mimic natural habitat specific to a particular animals. The hollows will be trialled as part of a Watershed Landcare Inc. rehabilitation project. Story in the Mudgee Guardian and Gulgong Advertiser, October 15.

Confusion in aged care

Associate Professor Maree Bernoth, in speaking about aged care, spoke about how confusing the MyAged Care  system was, and the situation around aged care in general in Australia on ABC Upper Hunter, ABC Newcastle, ABC New England North West, ABC Central West, ABC South East NSW,  October 14.

The Conversation analysis on top topics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan was included in the list of The Conversation’s top authors to write articles on New Zealand stories as mentioned in an article on its analytics, October 18. https://theconversation.com/nz/topics/new-zealand-stories-39720

Webinar on vaccine access for those with mental illness

There was a story in the Central Western Daily featuring Professor Russell Roberts as National Director of Equally Well Australia about a webinar Oct 21, looking at the issue of vaccine access for those living with mental illness, October 20 and 21. Then, following a CSU media release on the lack of vaccine access for those living with a mental illness, he spoke on ABC Central West NSW, ABC Western Plains,  ABC Riverina, October 28.

This week in politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan spoke about the “vulnerability” of the Federal Government calling an election at the moment because of the risk of a Commonwealth-induced fourth COVID wave, the NSW Premier announcing his state would open up its borders internationally and the Commonwealth saying no, not yet; and the scramble to get a united voice on reducing carbon emissions, ABC Central West, October 20.

Geoff Craig memorial Lecture

Notice of the Friends of Stanley Athenaeum’s Geoff Craig memorial lecture to be delivered by Adjunct Dr Rik Thwaites at the Stanley Memorial Hall, Sunday, October 25. Rik will explore the question ‘Community as climate leaders: if not us, then who?’ Article in the Ovens and Murray Advertiser, October 22.

Australian Acoustic Observatory (AAO) and cryptic birds

Both Professor David Watson and Dr Liz Znidersic got a mention in an interview for the work they are doing re the AAO and studying cryptic bird in an interview with the editor of Cosmos magazine, on ABC Western Plains, October 26.

This week in Politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan discussed the big political news of the week, namely the Federal government’s plan to get Australia to net zero emissions by 2050 which doesn’t adjust the 2030 target and the National Party’s stance on all this, on ABC Western Plains and ABC Central West, October 27.

The science of stuff

Dr John Rafferty, in his regular segment discussed evolution including  ‘accidental’ evolution, and natural selection on ABC Goulburn Murray and ABC Shepparton,  October 28.

Impact of research

A TV news story about NSW DIPE, Albury City Council and land developers/builders taking into consideration the needs of the Sloane’s froglet i.e. requirements for water depth and vegetation planting in the stormwater retention ponds for a new housing estate at Thurgoona. Frog numbers are now booming.  The planning decisions were based on habitat data from Dr Alex Knight’s PhD thesis. Report on Prime 7, October 29. https://www.prime7.com.au/news/7470098-frog-boom

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November

Call to remove all feral horses from NSW protected areas

Professor Dave Watson, as one of the signatories on an open letter from the Australian Academy of Science to the NSW Environment Minister Matt Kean calling for the state government to work towards removing all feral horses from every NSW protected area, including Kosciusko NP, spoke on the issue on ABC Goulburn Murray, ABC Gippsland, November 1. It follows the media release put out by the Australian Academy of Science, October 29 and then a story “Scientists say Australian Plan to cull up to 10,000 wild horses doesn’t go far enough” was published in Nature https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-021-02977-7 which was then picked up by a number of news sources including in The India Nation, lifescience.net, newsbreak.com, 6parknews, November 1, www.w24news.com, November 2,. Business Mayor, California News Times Today, Live Science, November 3.

Roll out of nesting boxes

Nesting boxes, developed by Habitat Innovation and Management (former Honours student Mick Callan) in association with Charles Sturt University (Professor Dave Watson and School of Engineering) have recently been installed as a trial in Bateman’s Bay (supported by Transport for NSW) with first production to get under way in days, as reported in the Western Advocate, November 3 and in the Western Times, Nov 11.

NSW Government review

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan spoke about NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet’s order for a review by the Productivity Commissioner of the way taxpayer funded grants are awarded in the wake of current ICAC investigations into former Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Wagga Wagga MP Daryl Maguire, on ABC Coffs Coast,  ABC New England North West, ABC Central West, ABC South East NSW, ABC Upper Hunter,  November 3.

This week in politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan, in his regular weekly radio spot, talked about  how countries have fared after opening up after vaccine rollouts reached 80% which was initially thought to be good enough to curb the spread and how that hasn’t been the case, and that Australia “underwhelmed” at the COP 26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow, and that it would be very difficult now for former NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian to have a go at Federal politics, on ABC Central West, Nov 3.

New Zealand news

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan talked politics on Waatea, Auckland’s Urban Maori Radio and News Station, Nov 3 and again on November 24.

Overpopulation and impact of climate change

Professor Manohar Pawar spoke on overpopulation and the impact of climate change on ABC Riverina, November 3.

Impact of COVID-19

There was an interview with Professor Manohar Pawar who says that COVID 19 has impacted significantly on employments rates in nearly all countries with significant economic, emotional and social impacts, November  2BS and DCFM 88.9, Nov 4.

Getting to know you

ILWS PhD candidate Lauren Stoot, the recipient of a Crawford Fund Student Award, has been featured in their ‘getting to know you’ series, published Nov 4 https://www.crawfordfund.org/news/lauren-stoot/

Red pandas in Bhutan

There was a story about the protecting red pandas and livelihoods in Bhutan project featuring comments by project leader Dr Jo Millar in Bluehostnews, November 5 https://www.bluehostnews.com/protecting-red-pandas-and-livelihoods-in-bhutan/

Bringing Back the Bunyip Bird

Dr Liz Znidersic will be one of the presenters at the Bringing Back the Bunyip Bird Australasian Bittern Summit 2022 to be held in Leeton, NSW and from 1-4 February 2022. CSU is one of the partners/sponsors of the event which is hosted by Riverina Local Land Services. Report in Get Regional, November 8 and the Regional Independent, November 10.

This week in Politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan in his regular radio segment discusses what the PM’s chances are of re-election according to the polls and recent policy announcements including $250 million to assist with electric vehicle infrastructure as well as the Singapore Government’s proposal that people who are unvaccinated against COVID-19 will have to pay for health treatment if they get sick from the virus, on ABC Central West NSW, Nov 10.

Fire, fire everywhere

ILWS PhD student Josh Hodges, a fire ecologist who is also a volunteer fire fighter and emergency worker in regional Victoria, has recorded an ABC podcast for "Off Track" discussing fire and grasslands. Topics covered include the ecological-social-risk reduction benefits of fire on grasslands, firefighting and mental health. Published Nov 13. https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/offtrack/fire-ecology-joshua-hodges/13623372?fbclid=IwAR0QxZOiSskVikmJlIs0g5R8amyS4YQ9q2vdJWYRJrIg6T6Nc4KnoiulN38Then picked up by ABC Radio National, November 18.

The week in politics

In his regular radio segment professor Dominic Discusses the unemployment rate, inflation, and other issues that the Federal Government will need to address as it heads towards the up-coming election; the date of which still hasn’t been announced, on ABC Central West, November 17.

Researcher and educator reflects on a 50 year nursing career

Associate Professor Maree Bernoth reflects on her career in a story on ABC News, November 18. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-11-18/maree-bernoth-reflects-on-50-years-of-nursing/100626218 Picked up by ABC North West WA, ABC Great Southern WA, ABC Kimberley, ABC South West WA, ABC Esperance, ABC Mid West and Wheatbelt, ABC Radio National, and eight other ABC Radio stations across the country, November 18.

Lao Fishers embrace Australian technology

ACIAR news story on official handover of the Pak Peung fish pass with quotes from Professor Lee Baumgartner who leads the fish pass project in Laos, November 19 https://www.aciar.gov.au/media-search/news/lao-fishers-embrace-australian-technology

Participation key to closing health gap

Associate Professor Dominic O’Sullivan presentation to the International Medical Students Federation Conference in October on the difference in life-expectancy between indigenous and non-indigenous populations was picked up by the Western Advocate, November 19.

Need to protect sandalwood

ILWS PhD student Richard McLellan was featured in a story “Calls to better protect wild sandalwood amid fears of extinction” in an ABC News story on Landline, November 20. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-11-20/fears-australian-native-sandalwood-pushed-to-extinction/100606076

Need for more assistance programs for mental health

Professor Russell Roberts Opinion Piece on Understanding the mental health toll of COVID 19, was in The Canberra Times, Jimboomba Times, November 20, and the Bendigo Advertiser, November22. https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/7515791/understanding-the-mental-health-toll-of-covid/

Resilience survey in Blue Mountains

Associate Professor Val Ingham and colleague Professor Daniel Aldrich (from Northeastern University in Boston, US) are inviting Blue Mountains business owners, managers and employees to participate in a survey to better understand the current structures of local business community groups and networks from a perspective of disaster preparedness, resilience and shared values, as reported in the Blue Mountains Gazette, November 22 and again December 8.  https://www.bluemountainsgazette.com.au/story/7514165/resilience-experts-call-on-community-help-in-survey/

This week in politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan in his regular radio segment talks about the final two weeks of Federal Parliament sitting and the chaotic start to the week for the Prime Minister re over-ruling state vaccine mandates, the new religious discrimination bill, etc on ABC Central West NSW, November 24.

The Science of Stuff

In his final regular monthly session on ABC Goulburn Murray Dr John Rafferty talked about re-wilding, Tasmanian Devils, amongst other things, November 25.

LGBT community prefers travel to rural destinations

There was a story about the LGBTQ+ community preferring travel to rural destinations based on Dr Cliff Lewis’s study of LGBT travellers in aa Australian first motivation study, in the Western Advocate and Inverell Times, and newz.net.au, November 25.

Dehydration in the military

Story about Professor Frank Marino being awarded a second prestigious fellowship to continue his research into dehydration in soldiers, on 2BS 95.1, November 25.

Changes in nursing over time

Associate Professor Maree Bernoth spoke about the changes in nursing she has seen over the past 50 years, on ABC Tropical North, 720 ABC Perth and ABC Kimberley, November 25.

Wagga City Council elections 2021

Dr Emma Rush, an ethicist, is urging for net-zero emission action as a candidate for then upcoming council elections, in the Daily Advertiser, November 26.

Nest Boxes

Former Honours student Mick Callan (supervised by Professor David Watson) talked about his new partnership with the Glideways Group and introducing his Habitech nest boxes to its programs to provide habitat for gliders, on 2BS, November 29. The nest boxes were then mentioned in a story about cardboard habitat pods designed by Maquarie University, in New Atlas, December 2.

Local government elections

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan has written an Opinion Piece in the Daily Advertiser explaining the finer points of local governments, November 30. Then published in the Macleay Argus, December 1, Western Advocate, December 3. https://www.dailyadvertiser.com.au/story/7531718/finer-points-of-local-government-elections-explained/

December

Women in trades

Feature story on Women in Trades project with case studies and quotes from project team member Dr Donna Bridges in ABC News, December 4. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-12-04/tradeswomen-say-workplace-culture-needs-change-to-support-them/100605686

Turtles on the road

Dr Damian Michael spoke about why we are seeing more Eastern long-neck turtles on the road in the Border District at this time of the year on ABC Riverina, December 6. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-12-16/why-did-the-turtle-cross-the-road-to-mate-or-seek-refuge/100568008?utm_campaign=abc_news_web&utm_content=mail&utm_medium=content_shared&utm_source=abc_news_web and again on 4WK 963AM, 4GY, 2BH, December 16, 2LF December 17

Record number of informal votes in Wagga local government election

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan says rules on handing out how to vote cards and a complicated voting system were likely to blame for a record number of informal votes in the Wagga local government election at the weekend, in an article in The Daily Advertiser, December 6.

'We pulled them from the mud': How new river infrastructure will secure the future of native fish
Infrastructure to stop fish from being sucked out of the Macquarie River by irrigation pumps is set to help improve the overall health of the waterway. Mentions Institute Adjunct Craig Boys. ABC Western Plains, December 12. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-12-08/fish-screens-to-rejuvenate-macquarie-river-nsw/100683752

Dominic’s 600^th radio interview

In his 600^th radio interview, Professor Dominic O’Sullivan discusses the political issues of the day including where the Government, the ALP, and the Greens are positioning themselves on jobs and growth in the light of climate change action, on ABC Central West and ABC Central Plains, December 8.

Opposing management proposal

Dr Helen Masterman-Smith, in her role as CSU Branch president for the National Tertiary Union, was speaking a bout the union’s stance on a CSU management proposal to delay enterprise bargaining on 2BS, December 15.

This week in politics

Professor Dominic O’Sullivan, in his regular radio segment, spoke about his concerns about increasing COVID outbreaks, the NSW Governments decision to open up including to the unvaccinated and the difficulty of getting the balance between public safety with economic imperatives, and the pressure all of that puts on political leadership and bureaucratic leadership, on ABC Central West, December 15.

Mandating staff ratios

Professor Maree Bernoth says that staff ratios in nursing homes should be mandated so as to give better aged care on ABC Mid North Coast, ABC New England, ABC Riverina, December 21 and ABC Western Plains, December 22.

Sounds of frogs

Associate Professor Skye Wassens spoke about the sounds of frogs as part of the work being undertaken by the Murrumbidgee MER on ABC Canberra and 12 other ABC radio stations across Australia, December 26.