World's leading coral experts to gather in Australia

The brightest minds in coral reef science and management will descend upon Australia for the 12th International Coral Reef Symposium (ICRS 2012) in Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, on July 9-13.

Held only once every four years, the 5-day event will draw more than 2,000 people from some 80 countries, to present cutting-edge science and hear the latest advances from international experts in coral reef conservation. The research and findings presented at ICRS 2012 are fundamental in informing international and national policies and the sustainable use of coral reefs globally.

Reports from the event will focus on topics including the link between climate change, coral bleaching, and ocean acidification; sustaining coral fisheries that support millions worldwide; the effectiveness of Marine Protected Areas; and the social and economic benefits of coral reef management.

Daily media briefings will be held to give journalists direct access to leading experts. Members of the news media attending the event will have access to a fully equipped media room and interview rooms. Credentialed media planning to attend the Symposium are required to register through the online newsroom: www.icrs2012.com/Media.htm

In addition, registered journalists, including those unable to attend the Symposium, will have access to press releases, archived video of briefings, high-resolution photos, B-roll video footage, and daily digests that will outline the day's most newsworthy research through the ICRS 2012 online newsroom.

Journalists are also invited to observe and interview leading Australian and international scientists, government representatives and other dignitaries, in the field, on a trip to the Great Barrier Reef on the Sunday before the event. SeaWeb, the media program coordinator, will also assist journalists with advance features, such as leads on profiles of leading scientists from your region. See contacts below.

What: 12th International Coral Reef Symposium: www.icrs2012.com

When: Monday, July 9 to Friday, July 13, 2012. Reef trip: Sunday, July 8, 2012, 9 a.m.- 3 p.m.

Where: Cairns Convention Centre, Cairns, Queensland, Australia

Who: Experts on coral reefs and climate change, coral reef fisheries, ocean acidification, coral reef diseases, and reef management will be available for media interviews. Only registered and paid attendees and the news media can attend. Credentialed members of the press can register at www.icrs2012.com/Media.htm

Key Facts: The first Symposium was held in 1969 in Mandapam Camp, India. ICRS has grown from participants representing 11 countries to a global scientific event with 2,000 participants from 80 countries. Previously the ICRS has convened at locations including: India, Australia, Japan, the Philippines, Tahiti, Guam, Panama, Indonesia, and most recently in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA in 2008.

Provided by SeaWeb