The Cairns Institute

10/07/2026

Join The Cairns Institute, Dr Kylie Moore-Gilbert and Dr Rana Dadpour for this free seminar on 16 July 2026.

Kylie and Rana will examine the changing dynamics of state power, repression, and resistance through the lens of contemporary Iran. Drawing on both panelists’ scholarly expertise and lived experience, the discussion will explore Iran’s practice of hostage diplomacy, the experiences of political prisoners and civil society actors, and the broader implications of authoritarian governance for citizens, researchers, and the international community.
The seminar will combine presentations and audience discussion, offering insights into a long-misunderstood country at a critical juncture in international affairs.

Scan the code to register your attendance.

06/01/2026

🌱 Building Soil Knowledge & Climate Resilience

Healthy soils are key to climate resilience. This research from TNQ Drought Resilience Hub explores innovative ways to strengthen soil health and support sustainable agriculture—helping communities adapt to changing conditions.
🔗 Learn more here https://tinyurl.com/3unhzzdv


TNQ Drought Hub
JCU: James Cook University, Australia

04/01/2026

📚 Confident Supervisors Volume 2 is here!

Supporting HDR supervision just got easier. This new resource offers practical strategies, tools, and insights to help supervisors guide research students with confidence and clarity.
🔗 Learn more and access Volume 2: https://tinyurl.com/5n69jxwp


JCU: James Cook University, Australia

28/12/2025

🌱 Enhanced Rock Weathering: Year 1 Outcomes
Can crushed rock help fight climate change? A/Prof Paul Nelson’s research explores how enhanced rock weathering can capture carbon and improve soil health—delivering benefits for agriculture and the environment.
📑 Read here https://tinyurl.com/4f9kj5ec

JCU: James Cook University, Australia

21/12/2025

🌿 Celebrating 25 Years of Regional NRM in Australia!
The 9th National Natural Resource Management Knowledge Conference, held 8–12 September at the Cairns Convention Centre, marked a major milestone—25 years since Australia adopted the regional NRM model.
Under the theme “Changing Landscapes and New Horizons,” the event brought together practitioners, researchers, policymakers, and community leaders to reflect on achievements and explore pathways for the next 25 years.
Highlights included:
✅ A full day of workshops
✅ Two days of inspiring presentations
✅ Field trips showcasing local projects
✅ Poster displays fostering informal learning
Co-hosted by North Queensland Regional NRMs—Cape York NRM, Gulf Savannah NRM, Terrain NRM, NQ Dry Tropics NRM, and NRM Regions Queensland—the conference showcased innovation, resilience, and collaboration in tackling complex environmental challenges.
Here’s to shaping the future of integrated landscape management together! 🌏
🔗 Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/4ms8xey7

JCU: James Cook University, Australia

18/12/2025

🎨 LabNorth Ignites Arts Investment in Northern Australia
LabNorth is driving creative innovation and investment in the North—connecting artists, communities, and industry to unlock new opportunities for cultural and economic growth.
📑 Read here https://tinyurl.com/4eu7ubhj

: James Cook University, Australia

16/12/2025

⚖️ Trauma, Justice & Healing
Dr. Rafferty from The Cairns Institute shared powerful insights at the International Association of Genocide Scholars (IAGS) conference—exploring pathways to justice and healing for communities impacted by trauma.

📑 Read here https://tinyurl.com/msteywjy

: James Cook University, Australia

14/12/2025

🤝 WOW & Mura Kosker Sorority Collaboration

The Cairns Institute celebrates the partnership between WOW and Mura Kosker Sorority—working together to empower women, strengthen communities, and create pathways for leadership and wellbeing in the Torres Strait.
🔗 Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/ypk59rxy

JCU: James Cook University, Australia

12/12/2025

How does trust shape the future of the Great Barrier Reef? 🌊

The research shows trust in GBR science and management agencies remains high but is vital for supporting new climate adaptation practices. Based on interviews with 140 coastal residents and surveys of 12,600 Australians, trust strongly predicts support for innovative solutions and reveals deeper dynamics beyond the numbers. Listen to The Cairns Institute Director and Distinguished Professor Stewart Lockie's presentation at the recent Social Science Community for The Reef Symposium.

👉 Watch the full presentation: https://youtu.be/X2g5cQHULik?si=KEoC1KHY8E9NwWng

JCU: James Cook University, Australia

A raft of studies over the years have found high levels of trust in science and management agencies active in the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) and strong associa...

10/12/2025

📢 Research Directions Forum

JCU Research Division and The Cairns Institute hosted the Research Directions Forum—bringing together researchers, partners, and community voices to shape future priorities and collaborative opportunities.
This event highlights our commitment to impactful research that addresses real-world challenges in Northern Australia and beyond.
🔗 Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/bdw96s4f

: James Cook University, Australia