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Hard to stomach: Impact of marine debris on sea turtles Dr Kathy Townsend, Moreton Bay Research Station, The University of Queensland Moreton Bay is home to a staggering biodiversity of marine animals, including dolphins, corals, dugong and sea turtles. However, living next to Australia’s fastest growing city has its consequences for the 20,000 sea turtles who visit Moreton Bay. In the last 20 years, floating marine debris has become an increasing concern due to the risk it presents to sea turtles. Records show that rubbish floating in the sea has caused 20% of turtle standings in Queensland by either entanglement or ingestion. However, in some areas of the world the rate is substantially higher, with up to 100% of stranded turtles containing plastics within their digestive systems. This month, Dr Kathy Townsend from the Moreton Bay Research Station will discuss the plight of the sea turtles found in Moreton Bay and what humans can do to help. Time: 6:30pm to 7:30pm (Doors open at 6pm) Venue: Long Room, Customs House at Riverside Refreshments: Complimentary wine and cheese will be served following the talk, and Dr Townsend will be available to answer any questions Questions? Contact Andrew (a.stephenson@uq.edu.au) Dr. Kathy Townsend is a marine biologist and the Manager of Research and Education at The University of Queensland’s, Moreton Bay Research Station (MBRS). Based on North Stradbroke Island, Kathy has been working and living on tropical research stations for over 15 years. Kathy is a marine biologist with eclectic professional interests, which include marine ecology, animal behaviour, conservation and human impacts on the marine environment. She has published in both international and regional journals and regularly presents at scientific conferences. Kathy is a great believer in bridging the gap between academia and the general community. Kathy has established multiple community orientated research programmes involving scientist, industry and community contributions: recently winning the prestigious Peter Doherty Award for Science and Education in 2010. As co-director of the Marine Pollution Research and Response Unit at UQ, Kathy is untangling the impact that discarded rubbish has on Moreton Bay’s sea turtle population. Through her work, it has been found that over 35% of the animals found within this region are dying due to eating the discarded marine rubbish. In 2009, she was awarded the prestigious Earthwatch/Goldring Marine Emerging Scientist Fellowship for her work in this area     Long Room, Customs House, Queen St, Brisbane, Qld

The Brisbane Tinnie & Tackle Show is a specialised event of its kind in Queensland. The Brisbane Tinnie & Tackle Show will offer a unique show of equipment and services. RNA Showgrounds, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is the most important specialised event of its kind in Australia. Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show will offer a unique show of equipment and services ranging from water sports through surfing, water skiing, and diving technologies, to charters, motorboats, and luxurious yachts. Sanctuary Cove, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia

The World Water Ski Racing Championships are coming to Queensland for the first time ever! The 2011 World Water Ski Racing World Championships will be held September 6 -18 in picturesque Moreton Bay, Queensland. Over 350 competitors from 12 countries throughout Europe, the United States and New Zealand are expected to make the pilgrimage to Queensland to go head to head against the very best Australian ski racers to what is arguably the most picturesque venue ever to hold this prestigious event. It is also the first of its kind in Queensland. The sport of ski racing has to be seen to be believed. Ultra fit athletes hurdle across the open water at speeds in excess of 160 KPH (110 MPH), behind impeccably prepared machines boasting up to 1200 horsepower and an estimated value of well over $250,000 each. Throughout the week there are four full days of competitive world championship racing with scheduled lay days in between, allowing teams adequate time to recuperate both skiers and machinery to ensure peak performance throughout. There are six main classes of competition including the premier F1 men’s and women’s classes, F2 men’s and women’s classes and junior boys and girls all competing for the illusive world championship crown. Combining incredible racing action on the water, with captivating demonstrations, activities and displays on the beautiful Moreton Bay foreshore; Ski Racing Queensland endeavors to create a highly entertaining event for people and families of all ages. Located only 35 minutes drive from the Brisbane CBD, and less than 20 minutes to Brisbane International Airport; this is an amazing location on the Southern edge of the Redcliffe Peninsula. The 2011 Water Ski Racing World Championships is the first of its kind ever to visit Queenland’s beautiful blue waters and promises to be a unique and exciting event, with something for everyone. Ski Racing Queensland invites the Queensland State and local governments and national business to partner in delivering this landmark event. Date range - Sat 10 September 2011 - Sun 18 September 2011 Time - 9am - 5pm Daily Where - Pelican Point, 33 Waterhouse Way, Clontarf show map & street view How Much - Free for spectators Contact - Ski Racing Australia web - www.skiracing.com.au Pelican Point, 33 Waterhouse Way, Clontarf

 2010, QBE Riverfire will be staged as part of Brisbane Festival’s opening extravaganza on Saturday 4 September. Aircraft displays Don't miss the Australian Defence Force's jam-packed programme at South Bank featuring aircraft displays, drills and live music. At 5.00pm the Roulettes* take off for a fantastic aerial display and then, when the sun goes down, the awesome F-111* strike jets make their final curtain call. Radio broadcast From 7.00pm tune into 104.5 FM for Triple M's outside broadcast of the fireworks extravaganza. The inspiring soundtrack, shaped by Creative Director Tony Assness, will feature thumping primal sounds of drums and didgeridoos, electronic beats, classical masterpieces, retro tunes and today's popular hits - all designed to trigger the pyrotechnic display for maximum impact. Live TV broadcast For those who celebrate at home, you can catch all the spectacle by tuning into the special live broadcast statewide on Channel Nine from 6.30pm. * Availability of ADF aircraft including F-111s and Roulettes is subject to operational requirements. Vantage points The celebration starts as early as 12noon, when people arrive to stake out their favourite vantage points. South Bank is a popular place for families to watch QBE Riverfire. The venue is fenced for public safety and will be closed once capacity is reached. Please do not bring glass, alcohol and drink bottles with broken seals, including bottles of water or softdrink to South Bank. These items will be confiscated by South Bank security staff. QBE Riverfire at South Bank is an alcohol-free event. Kangaroo Point Cliffs, Victoria Bridge, City Riverwalk (including Riverside Centre and Eagle Street Pier), Captain Burke Park and Wilson's Lookout offer alternative vantage points. All these sites offer food and beverages for sale. For people who have limited mobility, access is available at South Bank, Eagle Street Pier, Riverside Centre, City Botanical Gardens and Captain Burke Park. Brisbane River