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Abstract: We present the most complete and new high-resolution multibeam bathymetry datasets from the shelf to the basin in the Ribbon Reef region, northern Great Barrier Reef (GBR). Analysis of these data, combined with existing side-scan sonar data provides a detailed morphologic framework of the submarine canyon system and other related features, their spatial distribution, controlling factors on their evolution, and evidence of recent sedimentary activity. Two morphologically different submarine canyon types are recognised: 1) shelf-incised canyons whose heads are indented into the shelf-break at shallow-water depths (about 60 to 80m). These canyons can be single-fed or multi-fed depending on the number of tributaries that merge into the main canyon valley. According to the degree of connection with the shelf, these canyons can be reef-blocked, partly reef-blocked or shelf-connected; 2) slope-confined canyons, which are located at deeper waters in the slope and show a different canyon head morphology. Canyon formation and development of the different canyon types is explained according to a four-phase model. In the first phase, localised slope failures and/or sediment gravity flows may lead to the formation of an initial canyon by retrogressive headward or downslope erosion respectively. These processes continue during the second transitional phase, leading to upslope canyon progression. Finally, canyons breach the shelf-break during a mature stage that represents the more active phase in the canyon evolution. The development of an extensive shelf-edge barrier reef (Ribbon Reefs) represents a fourth phase that conditioned the sedimentary dynamics of the canyons. The location and morphology of this reef barrier determine the type and amount of sediment supply by controlling the connection of the canyon head with the shelf drainage system. Recent canyon activity is evidenced by the presence of erosive and depositional features that include submarine landslides, gullies and rills on the canyon walls and slopes, sandwaves migrating along the canyons floors, and sediment gravity flows deposited on the lower canyons and adjacent basin floor. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Raine Island is a vegetated coral cay located on the far northern outer Great Barrier Reef (GBR), recognised as a globally significant turtle rookery. Cay geomorphology, specifically the morphology of the beach and swale, dictate the availability of nesting sites and influence nesting success. Understanding short and long-term shoreline change is critical for managers charged with protecting the nesting habitat, particularly as climate change progresses. Historical topographic surveys, a simple numerical model and geographic information system (GIS) techniques were used to reconstruct a 40-year (1967–2007) shoreline history of Raine Island. Results show that significant shoreline change has occurred on 78% of the island''s shoreline between 1967 and 2007; 34% experienced net retreat and 44% net progradation during the study interval. Shoreline retreat is mainly concentrated on the east–southeast section of the shoreline (average annual rate of −0.3±0.3m/yr), while the shore on the western side of the island prograded at a similar rate (0.4±0.2m/yr). A seasonal signal was detected relating to oscillations in wind direction and intensity, with the southeast and west–southwest shorelines migrating an average of ∼17m from season to season. The volume of sediment deposited on Raine Island between 1967 and 2007 increased by ∼68,000m3 net, but accretion rates varied significantly seasonally and from year to year. The largest volumetric changes have typically occurred over the last 23years (1984–2007). Despite the recent concern that Raine Island is rapidly eroding, our data demonstrate net island growth (6% area, 4% volume) between 1967 and 2007. Perceptions of erosion probably reflect large morphological changes arising from seasonal, inter-annual and inter-decadal patterns of sediment redistribution rather than net loss from the island''s sediment budget. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper addresses uncertainty in socio-economic and sediment-nutrient models that are being developed for the assessment of change in the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) area. The catchments draining into the GBR lagoon are sources of pollutants. The Reef Water Quality Management Plan of the Queensland Government identified sediments and nutrients transported to the GBR lagoon as the major long-term threats to the reef and inshore ecosystems and the wellbeing of the human communities. The plan clearly indicates that changes in land management are required by 2013 to reduce pollutant inputs and, at the same time, maintain or enhance the benefits from using the inland waters. Science that provides decision tools for natural resource management and improves socio-economic and biophysical understanding is required to enable managers to make better decisions. A major research activity (the Water for a Healthy Country Flagship) aims to address social, economic and biophysical outcomes of land management change in the GBR. It contains research activities that provide information for integrated model development. Currently, however, these models lack the ability to estimate the uncertainty associated with prediction. This project aims to provide statistical methods for assessing uncertainty in models of sediment transportation to the GBR. Furthermore, it provides a link between the models and the decision-making process that allows assessment of uncertainty, a step pertinent to the risk analysis of policy options. This paper describes current and ongoing approaches for assessing uncertainty using a sediment modelling example and provides a way forward for the integration of applied socio-economic and biophysical models used in the decision-making process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]