If scientists are making a succession of major mistakes about the GBR, it is not without consequences. This is not some abstract argument between academics in their ivory tower.
Every major industry in north-eastern Australia is affected by legislation designed to “save the Reef ”; the costs run into billions of dollars. The Queensland State Government introduced draconian legislation in December 2019 placing far tighter restrictions and burdens on agricultural industries.
Every major aspect of farm activity is now tightly controlled by bureaucrats. Output of the sugar industry is being reduced due to restriction on the quantity of fertilisers farmers can use. The cattle industry has regulations affecting application of pesticides and on clearing of regrowth trees in pastures.
There are also continuous calls by environmental activist groups to restrict the mining industry to “save the Reef ”, especially coal mining. All the bad publicity claiming that the GBR is in terminal decline is affecting the tourist industry. The world thinks the GBR is almost dead, so why bother visiting?
The science of the GBR is thus a critical question for the people of north-eastern Australia. Mistakes have consequences and there is no excuse for carelessness, unverified methodology, or inadequate checking."