Sea surface temperatures have increased slightly across the Far North, North and Central regions over the past week, with little change in the southern region. Temperatures are tracking slightly above the long-term average with the Northern region (Cooktown – Innisfail) experiencing above-average conditions.

The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast a tropical low (23U) to form in the Coral Sea. There is a low chance (5–10%) it will develop into a tropical cyclone by the weekend. The system is expected to remain offshore and may bring localised rainfall to Marine Park catchments in the coming week.

The breeding season continues across the Reef, with turtle hatchlings emerging from nests and making their way to the sea from late January through April, especially at dawn and dusk. Seabirds are also nesting and feeding across island and ree ...