Why are Heard Island and McDonald Islands isolated?

However, the site’s isolation assists in reducing anthropogenic impacts upon the site’s values. Heard Island and McDonald Islands are located in the Southern Ocean, approximately 1,700 km from the Antarctic continent and 4,100 km south-west of Perth.

Is there a threat to Heard Island and the McDonald Islands?

Ongoing and accelerating climate change poses an increasing risk of fundamental alterations in biodiversity. Geological processes (primarily volcanism and glacial retreat) continue undisturbed. The overall assessment is that there is a low threat to the World Heritage values of Heard Island and the McDonald Islands if visitation remains low.

Where is Heard Island & McDonald Islands located?

Located in the Southern Ocean, many thousands of kilometres from the nearest significant human population, Heard Island and McDonald Islands (HIMI) has a fair amount of natural protection from the potentially harmful effects of human activities.

What is the history of Heard Island and McDonald Island?

General map of Heard Island and McDonald Islands. Periodic Australian research expeditions have been made to Heard Island since the Australian ANARE station was closed in 1955, and occasional visits have also been made by other nations. There are only two brief recorded landings at McDonald Island, in 1971 and 1980.

What is the Heard Island Wilderness Reserve management plan?

The Heard Island Wilderness Reserve Management Plan was made under the EPMO and came into effect in 1996. The management plan provided priorities for decisions that would affect the Territory, defined appropriate uses and activities, olltlined management areas and contained management strategies for protecting the Territory's values.