Yay for the GBR… The Great Barrier Reef’s northern and central regions have recorded their highest levels of coral cover in 36 years. Scientists say it shows recovery is possible if cyclones and coral bleaching give it a break. Unfortunately, the corals growing back are the most vulnerable to marine heatwaves, storms and the predatory crown-of-thorns starfish. Those threats are set to intensify with climate change, so there’s concern the reef’s recovery could be short-lived. The Albanese Government says it’s doing its bit to protect the world heritage site – its emissions reduction bill passed the House of Reps yesterday. And last night, Environment and Water Tanya Plibersek said she’s unlikely to approve a Queensland Coal project proposed by Clive Palmer due to “unacceptable impacts” on the reef. It’s the first time a federal environment minister has proposed the refusal of a coal mine in our history.