NSW Northern Rivers Entertainment

New ‘Aquanomics’ research from GHD says climate change is doubling Australia’s annual losses from droughts, floods and storms.

Published

2 years ago

2 September 2022

JeffG

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New ‘Aquanomics’ research from GHD says climate change is doubling Australia’s annual losses from droughts, floods and storms.

30 August 2022: Droughts, floods and storms could result in a total loss of AUD$452 billion to Australia’s GDP between 2022 and 2050, according to new research launched today.

Aquanomics: The economics of water risk and future resilience report is published by global professional services company GHD and reveals Australia will suffer an average annual GDP loss of 0.6% due to water risks such as droughts, floods, and storms.
The research places Australia in the third most vulnerable position when projecting the future economic impact of these events in seven countries*.

It also highlights that Australia’s agricultural and retail sectors could be particularly hard hit and these rising threats need to be tackled now with greater focus on solutions like water recycling, desalination, and smarter irrigation.

Lindsey Brown, Australian Water Market Leader at GHD, explains: “To create resilience to the increasing risks from extreme weather events we need to adapt how we build water infrastructure, optimise the performance of existing infrastructure and prioritise nature-based solutions to water management across industries.”

Storms are expected to have the greatest direct impact on the Australian economy (AUD$102 billion), followed by floods (AUD$64 billion) and droughts (AUD$41 billion).

This is the first time that the economic impact of these three types of events have been calculated at a GDP and sector level.
The Aquanomics report builds on concerns highlighted recently by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) that revealed over half of all natural disasters worldwide since the 1970s have involved water.

In addition, in 2021, the Emergency Event Database (EM-DAT) stated that drought, flood and storm disasters affected close to 100 million people globally through displacement, economic damage, food insecurity and injury.

Aquanomics highlights the potential impact of extreme weather events on five critical economic sectors in Australia: agriculture; banking and insurance; energy and utilities; fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) and retail; and manufacturing and distribution.

It reveals that Australia’s agricultural sector is particularly vulnerable, with projected annual output losses of over 5% by 2030 and 8% by 2050**.

“With a growing population and increasing demand for water, embracing the circular economy is a key part of creating climate resilience in Australia,” says Lindsey.

The circular economy involves eliminating waste and pollution, circulating products and materials to extend their lives as long as possible through recycling and reuse, and the regeneration of nature.

Adds Lindsey: “A circular economy approach to water management includes options like supporting water authorities to design out waste and pollution and regenerate natural systems. Increasing supplies of manufactured water through water reuse and recycling also offers a reliable source of water that is not climate-dependent and can contribute to economy-wide decarbonisation efforts through energy production of green hydrogen.

“For Australia’s coastal cities – where 80% of the country’s population is concentrated – desalination will be crucial in easing water stress and inland, wastewater treatment and recycling will become more important. These processes make purified recycled water available for drinking and for use by power stations, industry and agriculture.

“The government has a key role to play in managing the transition to new methods of water management. Investment programs, such as the National Water Grid Fund, are the first step but infrastructure can only be part of the solution.”

Re-emphasising the importance of tackling the future potential threats posed by droughts, floods and storms across the country, Lindsey says that Australia needs to ‘reorient’ its relationship with water.

“By focusing on economic impacts of extreme weather events in our Aquanomics report, we aim to help identify and unlock the social and environmental benefits of tackling water risk head-on.

“It’s time to move away from viewing water as a commodity to be controlled, and instead recognise its intrinsic value – water is part of a natural cycle, the balance of which must be restored and maintained if we are to live sustainably and to prosper.

“We also have a responsibility to collaborate with traditional owners and explore water’s deep connection to country. And it’s important to remember that many Indigenous communities are vulnerable to water risk, especially drought.”

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Entertainment

NORTHERN RIVERS YOUTH ORCHESTRA 2024

Published

4 months ago

4 April 2024

JeffG

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NORTHERN RIVERS YOUTH ORCHESTRA 2024

Calling all young musicians! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to join the Northern Rivers Youth Orchestra in Lismore this July.

Hosted by the esteemed Northern Rivers Conservatorium, this orchestra brings together talented young musicians from all over the region for a three-day-long intensive program of rehearsals, workshops, and performances. Led by inspiring guest conductors from associated regional conservatoriums, you’ll have the chance to work with some of the best music educators in the country and learn from their wealth of experience. As a member of the NRYO, you’ll be honing your skills, collaborating with other talented musicians, and getting to perform at the Whitebrook Theatre in a public grand finale concert!

Northern Rivers Youth Orchestra 2024

You’ll also make new friends and be part of a supportive and inspiring community of young musicians who share your passion for music. Northern Rivers Youth Orchestra participants can expect to learn a wide range of music from the high energy to the sublime, sourced from blockbuster movies, iconic bands and famous classical works, featuring many well-known composers both contemporary and historical.

Northern Rivers Youth Orchestra 2024

‘Speaking as someone who has done it every year since 2012, it is such an incredibly fun, rewarding and motivating experience… alumni from NRYO have gone on to be world-class soloists and ensemble performers,’ says Tilly Jones, local performer/composer and Northern Rivers Conservatorium librarian.
The Northern Rivers Youth Orchestra is comprised of full orchestras, concert bands, and string ensembles. The cost for seniors (AMEB 4+) is $190, and for juniors (AMEB 1–3) it is $170. An early bird discount of $20 applies until 3rd June. So why wait? Apply now for the Northern Rivers Youth Orchestra and join us for an unforgettable three days of music-making. Learning, and inspiration. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this amazing experience!

The Northern Rivers Youth Orchestra will be held 9–11 July, 2024.
ENROL HERE: https://enrol.nrcac.edu.au/enrol-workshops/
ENQUIRIES: nryo@nrcac.edu.au
SUBSCRIBE: subscribe.nrcac.edu.au

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Entertainment

St Jerome’s Laneway Festival

Published

6 months ago

31 January 2024

Liam

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St Jerome’s Laneway Festival

The St Jerome’s Laneway Festival is back in a BIG way, announcing a stellar line-up featuring some big names.

Leading the charge is British rap maestro, Stormzy, marking his grand return to the Australian stage after a seven-year hiatus. Known for his magnetic stage presence, this Laneway exclusive offers fans a golden chance to witness his live prowess. Alongside him, Steve Lacy, a sensation who rose to stardom with hits like ‘Bad Habit’, is set to grace the festival stages in various cities, promising performances that resonate with both energy and passion.

Adding depth to the line-up is RAYE, bringing her poignant narratives to the Laneway stages, and the ever-enchanting Unknown Mortal Orchestra, ready to mesmerise audiences with their latest album, “V”. For those seeking a vibrant dance experience, Nia Archives stands as a must-see, blending diverse musical genres into a futuristic soundscape.

The festival also welcomes first-timers like the soulful Faye Webster and the dynamic duo DOMi & JD Beck, alongside other promising artists ready to leave their mark on the Australian music scene. From the gritty rhymes of AJ Tracey to the melodious tunes of Angie McMahon, the festival promises a rich musical journey.

So, mark your calendars and gear up for a musical fiesta that promises unforgettable moments and ground-breaking performances.

St Jerome’s Laneway Festival Lineup Poster

Check out the full St Jerome’s Laneway Festival Lineup

Details:

When: Saturday 3 February
Where: Brisbane Showgrounds
More Details: www.lanewayfestival.com
Tickets: Available here.

For more entertainment news, click here.

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Entertainment

BOB MARLEY: ONE LOVE

Published

6 months ago

31 January 2024

Liam

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BOB MARLEY: ONE LOVE

Get ready to be swept away by the rhythm of rebellion and the melody of hope with the upcoming biopic, Bob Marley: One Love.

This highly anticipated film, hitting theatres on February 14, 2024, promises to be more than just a chronicle of the legendary reggae musician’s life. It’s a journey into the heart of a man who used his music to fight for unity, love, and social justice.

The film takes us back to Marley’s early days in the rural Jamaican village of Nine Mile, where his musical roots were planted. We witness his rise to stardom as the frontman of the Wailers, their struggles against poverty and discrimination, and their eventual transformation into the iconic band known as Bob Marley & The Wailers.

Kingsley Ben-Adir takes on the monumental task of portraying Marley, capturing not only his musical genius but also his charisma, unwavering spirit, and unwavering commitment to his message.

BOB MARLEY: ONE LOVE

Marley’s music wasn’t just entertainment; it was a weapon. His lyrics, infused with Rastafarian beliefs and Pan-Africanism, spoke of liberation, love, and the fight against oppression. Songs like “Get Up, Stand Up,” “Redemption Song,” and of course, the title track, “One Love,” became anthems for the disenfranchised around the world.

The film promises to immerse us in the electrifying atmosphere of Marley’s live performances, showcasing the infectious energy of his music and its power to unite people across cultures and backgrounds.

Bob Marley: One Love is not just a musical biopic; it’s a story of resilience, faith, and the enduring power of love. We see Marley’s struggles with illness, his unwavering commitment to his family, and his tireless efforts to promote peace and unity, culminating in the historic “One Love Peace Concert” in Jamaica.

The film delves into the complex political landscape of Jamaica in the 1970s, where Marley’s message of unity often clashed with the entrenched political establishment. It’s a story that remains relevant today, reminding us of the power of music to inspire change and the importance of fighting for what we believe in.

Bob Marley’s legacy extends far beyond his music. He remains a symbol of hope and resistance, a reminder that even the smallest voice can make a difference. Bob Marley: One Love is a testament to his enduring impact, a film that will leave you dancing to the rhythm of his music and yearning for a world united by love.

So, mark your calendars for February 14th and get ready to experience the magic of Bob Marley: One Love. Let the music wash over you, feel the spirit of rebellion ignite within you, and remember the power of one love to conquer all.

With its stellar cast, powerful soundtrack, and timely message, Bob Marley: One Love is a film that promises to be a cinematic and emotional experience. It’s a must-see for music lovers, history buffs, and anyone who believes in the power of music to change the world.

For more entertainment news, click here.

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