
RIEL News

CDU rises in 2026 QS World University Rankings, bucking national trend
Charles Darwin University (CDU) has climbed to 584 in the prestigious 2026 QS World University Rankings - a marked improvement from its position in the 621-630 band last year - defying the national trend.
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Project aiming to improve cattle productivity in Timor-Leste
A decline in feed availability for cattle during Timor-Leste’s dry season may be having a severe impact on the region, but a new research project exploring alternative feeding methods, specifically silage, aims to minimise its impact on farmers and cattle.
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A net a kilometre: Drones successfully identifying ghost nets along NT coastline
Drones and Artificial Intelligence are uncovering ghost nets from 50 centimetres to larger than five metres along the coastline of the Gulf of Carpentaria, proving the success of a program aimed at maintaining the pristine environment of this region.
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Global network of ocean robots endorsed by UNESCO
A fleet of ocean robots will sail the seas collecting data to improve weather and climate forecasting, maritime security awareness, survey wildlife and more after a global network of this technology was endorsed by UNESCO.
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Working with nature, not against it: How our economies can grow with the environment
Economic growth doesn’t have to come at a cost to the environment, and the ways in which this is possible will be on display at a global conference being held in Australia for the first time.
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Stronger together: Bilby conservation efforts enhanced by Indigenous knowledge
One of the nation's most iconic and at-risk critters could benefit by combining Indigenous knowledge with western survey methods, according to a new study led by Charles Darwin University (CDU) in collaboration with the North Tanami Rangers and Traditional Owners from the community of Lajamanu.
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Changing the tide: New project aims to shift attitudes around fish welfare practices
Fish are often overlooked when the term “animal welfare” is used, but a new project is working to ensure happy fins are met with the same enthusiasm as cage-free eggs or grass-fed beef.
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New designs hit the water for environmental research and maritime training
RIEL's three research vessels have recently been freshened up with a clean, new look in readiness for the coming years. The new boat wraps not only provide long-term protection to the hulls and fulfil special signage requirements for research vessels, but have also been designed with a deep respect for local wildlife in mind
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Birds of a feather: Unexpected relationships take flight in the face of climate change
The pressures of climate change may be strengthening bonds between unlikely allies in Central Australia’s bird community as species are forced to work together to access life-saving resources, a study has found.
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