The

Climate
Institute

Sport & Climate Impacts:

How much heat can sport handle?
•1
 SPORT &
CLIMATE IMPACTS:
HOW MUCH HEAT CAN SPORT HANDLE?

WHY + HOW
Sport is embedded in Australians’ lives, community
WHO
The lead author of this report is Luke Menzies of
Contents
and economy. And, like many other areas of Australian The Climate Institute, with support from Kristina Foreword 02
life, sport is starting to feel the impacts of climate
change, leading to some adaptations and posing
Stefanova, Olivia Kember and John Connor.
Executive Summary 03
questions as to whether others are possible. Creative direction, design and illustrations by Economics of Sport 05
Eva Kiss. Figure 3 illustration by Bella
This report synthesises recent research on the physical Turnbull-Finnegan. Key imagery by Michael Hall.
Challenging Climate 09
impacts of extreme weather caused by climate change, Managing Heat & Health 11
and analyses vulnerability and resilience to climate Thanks to Helen Ester, Dr Liz Hanna and Alvin
change among sporting codes, clubs and grounds Stone for their assistance with this report.
Athletes & Coaches Speak Up 15
across the country. Building Greater Resilience 19
WHERE
The goal is to stimulate a broader discussion about Sport & Climate Impacts and associated interactive Hurting Locally 22
climate change amongst sports professionals and content can be accessed at: Conclusion 29
administrators, and the millions of fans. www.climateinstitute.org.au

ISBN 978-1-921611-33-9

•2 •3
 FOREWORD

In my role with the AFL in the last few years, I talked The Climate Institute has documented in previous
to many people about a range of issues — and work the impacts of climate on infrastructure and
naturally some of them were closer to my heart than large sectors like finance and transport.
others. The issues I encountered in the AFL are vast;  
they touch people from every conceivable walk For this summer – and to mark a year since
of life. Some resonate on a personal basis more Melbourne experienced a severe heatwave while
than others. athletes played multiple-hour tennis matches at
  the Australian Open – the Institute is documenting
As a board member of The Climate Institute, I’m the impacts of climate change on sport.  Summer
engaged on an issue that is important in so many and winter sports alike are impacted. Some are
ways. When thinking about how best I could provide showing resilience, changing their practices
a clear understanding of why I’m involved with the and amending playing grounds. Others will find
Institute, first on my mind is how climate change is adaptation much harder.
impacting us locally and globally. I think about  
the fact that climate change is gravely affecting Sport, of course, is near and dear to me. So I’m very
the way we live and the way our children will live in pleased to provide the opening words to this report.
decades to come. I think about the effect it’s having  
on infrastructure and the future of our economy, I hope that you will find it compelling and consider
and about the dangerously high global levels of the many aspects of our lives that climate change is
CO 2 we’re currently faced with. altering, in some instances forever. Like in other areas
  of our society and economy, we need to act now for
The science is loud and clear. Our world is warming, greater resilience in managing unavoidable climate
and places like Australia are experiencing ever wilder impacts, but to also call for urgent decarbonisation
weather: more drought, bushfires, and other extreme of the Australian and global economies to avoid
weather events. unmanageable climate impacts. We can’t afford to
stay on the sidelines on this issue.
 

Andrew Demetriou,
former CEO of the Australian
Football League and Board
Member of The Climate Institute.

•1 •2
EXECUTIVE
HEATWAVES, CHANGED RAIN PATTERNS, FLOODS, AND DROUGHT ARE
CHALLENGING PLAYING GROUNDS AND FACILITIES AROUND THE COUNTRY.
FROM LOCAL TO PROFESSIONAL SPORT, ATHLETES, SPECTATORS, OFFICIALS

SUMMARY
AND VOLUNTEERS ARE FEELING THE HEAT.

Climate change and extreme weather events threaten Global warming is likened to extreme weather The health dangers of extreme heat are well Like all major developments and infrastructure,
the viability of Australian sport as it’s currently played, on steroids. For Australia, already a country of understood. Most of us maintain a core temperature stadiums and other large sporting grounds should
either in the back yard, at local grounds, or in extremes, that is bad news. Climate change is around 37°C. Above 38°C becomes uncomfortable, not be constructed or enhanced without clear
professional tournaments. making heatwaves more frequent and intense, and with each additional degree health problems consideration of climate risks. Scenarios of short
  increasing high and low rainfall extremes and progressively kick in. From 40°C onwards death and long-term climate projections should be taken
Heatwaves, changed rain patterns, floods, and worsening droughts, floods, and bushfires. Average becomes more likely. Athletes are at particular risk, into account.
drought are challenging playing grounds and facilities temperatures in Australia have warmed by about as are vulnerable spectators, especially children  
around the country. Continued global warming is 0.9°C since 1910. Seven of the years since 2002 and the elderly. Elite sport may be able to afford some adaptations.
and will have direct impacts on all sports. From local have been the hottest on record.   But the ability to respond at local sporting grounds is
to professional sport, athletes, spectators, officials   Recently, athletes, spectators and experts have more questionable.
and volunteers are feeling the heat and the very real This report finds that most sports are struggling to begun speaking up about safety and viability of
impacts of climate change. cope, especially at the local level. Heat policies are summer events. During heatwaves, fans at both elite Snow sports are also hard hit and their viability
  often ambiguous and vary at state, national and and community level sport have stayed away. in Australia is significantly threatened. Rising
Sport is embedded in Australian society, and central international level, with ambiguity about application. temperatures have led to a loss of as much as 40
to our culture and economy. Participation in sport Duty of care thresholds vary within and across sports Rumblings are coming from AFL, rugby, cricket, and per cent of snow cover since the 1980s. This has
improves mental and physical health, enhances from 32°C to 41°C. By comparison, one of Australia’s others. In 2014, major tournaments like the tennis hurt winter tourism in the Australian alps, while many
community cohesion, and contributes significantly largest unions, the Construction, Forestry, Mining Australian Open and cycling’s Tour Down Under in winter athletes like skiers and snowboarders have
to employment. and Energy Union (CMFEU), is explicit in its heat South Australia last year illustrated the challenges.   gone overseas to train.
  policy slogan: “35°C, That’s Enough”.    
The majority of Australians engage in sporting activities   There have been some changes in sports facilities.  If we continue to fail to tackle the challenge of climate
ranging from bush walking to team competition. CSIRO and the Bureau of Meteorology predict the The Melbourne Park precinct, where the Australian change, sports and much more will suffer. We have
Almost two-thirds of Australian children participate number of days over 35°C across the nation will Open is held, will soon have three arenas with to act to reduce heat trapping pollution but also
in organised sport outside school. More than 7.5 increase significantly by the end of the century. Hot retractable roofs to shade courts and seating areas. be much more aware of the growing dangers of
million Australians attend a sporting event each days will increase 2.5 times in Adelaide, treble in   unchecked climate change.
year. The sports industry contributes $12.5 billion Melbourne and Hobart, quadruple in Sydney, be In Queensland adaptations also tackle flooding.
to the economy.   six times higher in Canberra and 20 times higher in Brisbane experienced two major floods in 2011,
  Brisbane. In Perth, for more than two months out of affecting most of the city, including sporting grounds.
But sport can’t go on as it has. a given year, the mercury will soar over 35°C, as it Suncorp Stadium, for instance, was covered by 1.5
  will for 10 months in Darwin. metres of water. In rebuilding, management took into
  account changing weather conditions and included
many flood resistant adaptations.
•3 •4
ECONOMICS
OF SPORT

Sport is fundamental to Australia’s society, culture Sport’s popularity has direct economic benefits. The visibility and market power of major sporting
and economy. Participation in sport improves In 2012, the AFL earned $425 million, the Australia tournaments, codes and clubs, and professional
mental and physical health,1 enhances community Open about $240 million, Cricket Australia $206 sportspeople, earns millions of dollars. Media
cohesion and well-being, 2 and contributes million ($296 million in 2013/14), NRL $136 million rights, sponsorships and partnerships form a
significantly to employment. 3 and FFA $95 million.9 The 2014 Tour Down Under is significant portion of the revenue stream for
estimated to have generated about $46 million for the professional, as well as local, sporting events,
Some 80 per cent of Australians aged 15 and South Australian economy.10 leagues, clubs and individual athletes.
over engage in sporting activities ranging from
bushwalking to team competition at least once The forthcoming ICC Cricket World Cup and But as sporting events look ahead to more sales Each year sport contributes over
a year. Almost two-thirds of Australian children AFC Asian Cup, both in 2015, as well as the 2018 and profits, they also face significant challenges
participate in organised sport outside school.4 Commonwealth Games are expected to boost posed by extreme weather events, like drought,

$12.5 billion
the local economies of host cities, as athletes and heatwaves, floods and severe storms.
Watching sport is also very popular: more than spectators visit from across the globe. Cricket
7.5 million Australians attend at least one sporting Australia CEO James Sutherland said he expects
event a year.5 the World Cup will bring in at least of $350 million.11
to the Australian economy
Among the major codes in 2013, NRL saw 3.1 Sport contributes over $12.5 billion to the economy.12
million people through the gates, soccer’s A-League It employs 75,000 people.13 Sport also contributes to
attracted 1.8 million spectators, and cricket the economy by making Australians healthier.14 Being
attracted 1.7 million fans over the summer. 6-7 active makes for more productive workers, according
However, the biggest crowds by far are for AFL, to Frontier Economics, who found that sport in
which drew almost 7 million in 2014. 8 people’s lives helps boost the GDP by as much as 1
per cent of GDP ($12 billion) per year.15

•5 •6
MORE THAN 7.5 MILLION
AUSTRALIANS ATTEND
AT LEAST ONE SPORTING
EVENT A YEAR.
AUSTRALIAN BUREAU OF STATISTICS

•7 •8
 BY THE END OF THE CENTURY, THE NUMBER OF DAYS IN A YEAR OVER 35°C

CHALLENGING
WILL RISE SIGNIFICANTLY ACROSS AUSTRALIA’S MAJOR CITIES. HOT DAYS
WILL INCREASE 2.5 TIMES IN ADELAIDE, TREBLE IN MELBOURNE AND HOBART,
QUADRUPLE IN SYDNEY, BE SIX TIMES HIGHER IN CANBERRA, AND 20 TIMES IN

CLIMATE BRISBANE. IN PERTH, FOR MORE THAN TWO MONTHS OUT OF A GIVEN YEAR,
THE MERCURY WILL SOAR OVER 35°C, AS IT WILL FOR 10 MONTHS IN DARWIN.
CSIRO & BUREAU OF METEOROLOGY

The impacts of climate change on sport are far- Meteorology scientists reported that the frequency
reaching. of days above 40°C is rising and record hot days
now out number extremely cold days by more than
Heat directly affects athletic performance and two to one.31
welfare. Drought and changed rainfall patterns affect
ground surfaces and increase costs. These range Heatwaves rank as Australia’s deadliest natural threat
from increased water and energy use to insurance to human life – causing more deaths since 1890
premiums to cover the increased injury risks of than bushfires, cyclones, earthquakes, floods and
harder grounds. Extreme rainfall threatens short-term storms combined. 32 Looking out to 2050, heat-
ground washouts, and more extensive damage to related deaths across Australia’s capital cities are
grounds surfaces, which also impact maintenance predicted to quadruple.33
and insurance costs.
And it’s not just heat. Rain patterns, snowfall and
Although Australia’s climate is characterised by ocean swells are also changing.
great variability, the “land of droughts and flooding
rains” is experiencing greater climate extremes.16 Southern Australia – where most of us live and play
Climate change is making heatwaves more frequent sport – has seen a significant decline in average
and intense, high and low rainfall extremes more annual rainfall. The projections are for significantly
frequent and bushfires worse.17 The last few years reduced rainfall in winter and spring. 34
have been dominated by these extremes, and
include a series of droughts and flooding rains.18 At the same time, in the north, the risk of torrential
downpours and flooding rises with every degree.35
Average temperatures in Australia have warmed by
about 0.9°C since 1910.19 Seven of the 10 warmest Snowfall has been steadily declining in the alpine
years on record have occurred since 2002.20 regions of south-east Australia since the 1980s, with
as much as 39 per cent of snow cover lost in the last
2013 was Australia’s hottest year on record, also decade alone.36
marking the hottest month (January) and hottest day
(January 7).21 2014 was also boiling — the third hottest And in unwelcome news for surfers, fewer days
on record,22 and it had the hottest spring.23 with large waves are expected to occur in eastern
Australia.37
The frequency of extremely hot days in Australia
has already doubled since 1960.24 By the end of the If 0.9°C of warming in Australia has led to this,
century, the number of days in a year over 35°C will the severity of temperature rises beyond this
rise significantly across Australia’s major cities, the are hard to grasp.
Bureau of Meteorology and CSIRO have warned.25
If the world continues on its current path, global
Five separate studies in 2014 concluded that average temperature will rise by at least 4°C. The
Australia’s climate has shifted and extreme heat international community is working towards keeping
waves are more likely to occur.26-30 Bureau of the rise to below 2°C but it has much to do.
•9 • 10
MANAGING HEAT
& HEALTH FIGURE 1
WBGT HEAT STRESS MEASURE EXPLAINED

ONE OF AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST UNIONS The wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) can be measured
by covering a standard thermometer with a moist cloth and
HAS A HEAT POLICY EXPLICIT IN THE shading it from sunlight. It is always below the dry bulb
(standard) temperature – and significantly below if the air is dry.
SLOGAN “35°C, THAT’S ENOUGH”. If the WBGT exceeds the skin temperature, it means that heat
removal becomes impossible. When playing sport in extreme
48

heat, the body undergoes significant stress and at a certain

point cannot recuperate quickly enough to function properly.

As heat records were broken throughout Australia in Governments across the country have guidelines Following criticism that players suffered “inhumane” the objective measurements used to assess heat
2014, so too were unprecedented moments marked for health in hot weather, 43-44 and unions such as conditions and that the heat policy lacked clearly stress.55 At the state level there is slightly more clarity,
in the sports arena. Almost every summer sport The Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy defined and understood temperature triggers, the with explicit recommendations when temperature
was affected by extreme heat. Athletes, spectators Union (CMFEU) make it clear that this is a matter of Australian Open released an updated extreme heat exceeds predefined thresholds, especially if children
and experts questioned the logic, safety and long- workplace safety. This union’s heat policy is explicit in policy in December 2014. are involved.56
term viability of scheduling events in the height the slogan “35°C, That’s Enough”.45
of summer.39 The new policy provides a framework for the Elite cycling also suffers from an inconsistent
With heatwaves intensifying and becoming more implementation of the policy – announcing that approach to managing heat risks. As the South
The dangers of extreme heat to the human body frequent into the future,46 there is a duty of care for the referee’s call to postpone a match will take into Australian State Emergency Service declared an
are well understood. Humans maintain a core sports organisations to adapt their heat policies for account when the ambient temperature exceeds “extreme heat warning” in the lead up to the 2014
temperature around 37°C. Above 38°C becomes future conditions. These should include allowing for 40°C and WBGT reading exceeds 32.5, whilst Tour Down Under, and bushfires threatened the
uncomfortable, and with each additional degree longer breaks, scheduling matches to avoid heat, considering the forecast and state of play. 49 first stage of the race, race director Mike Turtur
health problems progressively kick in. Organ and postponing and cancelling events when key duty told media: “We are governed by [Union Cycliste
damage occurs. From 40°C onwards death is of care thresholds are breached. AFL, NRL and A-League coaches and player International] rules. There is no heat policy at the
more likely.40 assocations have also called for improvements in UCI.”57
Heat policies vary significantly among sports and their respective leagues’ heat policies after
The risk of athletes’ body temperature rising across different levels of the same sport. Some have extreme heat impacted games during 2013, 2014 The absence of a heat policy under UCI jurisdiction
towards the 40°C limit in extreme heat, even with no heat policy at all. But even where heat policies and 2015 seasons. 50-52 also contradicts Cycling South Australia’s hot
moderate humidity is very real. In conditions of exist, a consensus is emerging that they are not weather policy – which has clear recommendations
over 40°C, like those experienced during the 2014 sufficient and are not being applied appropriately In February 2013, medical staff were on “high alert” for cancelling and postponing races above 37°C.58
Australian Open, it can become an “uncompensable or consistently.47 Figure 2 shows differing heat policies when Port Adelaide and St Kilda locked horns in
environment” where it is impossible to lose heat, in across sporting codes with threshold temperatures 38°C in Adelaide.53 The match went on without Elite sports must protect the health of their players,
essence overheating the body.41 Irrespective of the ranging from 32°C to 41°C. triggering the AFL’s heat policy, prompting a call for spectators and staff and support teams. They must
method of measure – whether ambient temperature, action from coaches. Collingwood coach Nathan also be moral leaders: highlight the increasing health
or the established wet bulb globe temperature The 2014 Australian Open was an example of Buckley told the press that “there's a duty of care to risks and give the imprimatur to local clubs to install
(WBGT) which takes into account temperature, a confused approach to heat policies. Tennis the playing group to make sure that we shuffle and follow realistic health policies.
humidity, wind speed and exposure to sunlight – if matches as long as six hours were played despite things a little bit to make sure players aren't under
body temperatures rise too high the risk of heat temperatures of 41°C for four consecutive days. undue duress.”54 Parents will increasingly demand more objective
stress, heat stroke and death become a reality.42 Officials deliberated enforcing the WBGT thermal tests rather than rely on subjective tests by local
stress measure, which is the most commonly used The AFL’s heat policy relies heavily on the discretion officials. Many of these officials are voluntary and
It is an employer’s responsibility – whether in the in Australia and the US. They only invoked the policy of officials. Quarters may be shortened, more trainers many not be trained in interpreting heat policies.
sports field or any other – to ensure safe working mid-afternoon on day three of the heatwave as the may deliver water and more player rotations may be
conditions. See Figure 1. mercury hit 43.3°C. permitted. However the policy does not outline

• 11 • 12
AFL CRICKET CYCLING TENNIS
AFL National Policy International Cricket Tour Down Under Australian Open
The AFL’s National Extreme Weather Policy59 and Rules are dictated by the International Cricket In 2014, race director Mike Turtur told media: “We The Grand Slam Committee governs the four
Guidelines for Prevention of Heat Injury 60 say to: Council (ICC).63 Umpires can allow for extra drinks are governed by [Union Cycliste International] rules. major tournaments, the Australian Open, French
intervals in hot conditions. However the ICC is not There is no heat policy at the UCI.” Open, Wimbledon and US Open. Significantly, the
+ Avoid scheduling matches in extreme conditions. explicit on heat. Australian Open updated its own heat policy in
Cycling South Australia December 2014.71
+ In matches already underway, implement more The ICC says that play can be suspended “If at any Racing will be cancelled or postponed on any race
breaks, shorten games, postponement/delay, and/or time the umpires together agree that the conditions day if the Bureau of Meteorology forecasts the Implementation of the policy is at the discretion of
more water delivery to the field. of ground, weather or light are so bad that there is Adelaide temperature to be 37°C or higher in the the referee, advised by when ambient temperature
obvious and foreseeable risk to the safety of any 4:00pm forecast issued the day before, unless it is exceeds 40°C and the WBGT reading exceeds
The measure and fixed triggers of the policy is player or umpire, so that it would be unreasonable clearly stated otherwise on the event information. 32.5°C, whilst considering the forecast and state
not set; it’s left to league officials. The policy gives or dangerous for play to take place, then they shall Racing may be modified on any race day by the of play.
responsibilities to players, clubs and medical officers: immediately suspend play, or not allow play to Chief Commissaire when temperatures are forecast
commence or to restart. The decision as to whether between 32-37°C, and racing will continue as Matches can be suspended at the end of an even
+ Players must monitor hydration, notify medical staff conditions are so bad as to warrant such action normal below 32°C. 68 number of games or completion of a tiebreak.
of stress, avoid playing if ill, and apply sunscreen. is one for the umpires alone to make following
consultation with the ICC Match Referee.” 64 Cycling Victoria Tennis Australia
+ Clubs must provide cooling aids such as ice vests, Under the Victorian policy races are halted at 41°C Tennis Australia, the national governing body,
report heat stress, and assign an official to monitor Cricket Australia and above, races are modified, postponed and updated its Extreme Weather Policy in September
heat stress during and after matches or training. Cricket Australia’s rules are also not explicit on heat, endurance events can be cancelled at 38-40°C.69 2014.71 More stringent rules are in place for
listing only rain in the dangerous or unreasonable matches involving people under 16, or seniors. For
+ Medical officers must identify and monitor vulnerable conditions clause. Under extreme heat, umpires can professional adults, the policy activates at the WBGT:
players’ hydration and performance, weigh players permit extra water breaks.65
to manage fluid requirements, manage symptoms of + At WBGT of 30°C+, extended breaks are given,
heat stress and report incidents of heat stress, and The South Australia Cricket Association and the number of sets in a game is reduced.
ensure proper medical equipment is on hand. Clearly defines extreme heat at temperatures of
37°C+, or 34°C+ for kids in their policy. It provides + At WBGT of 34°C+, matches can be suspended
South Australian National Football League for umpires to cancel play, vary the starting time and or delayed.
Policy kicks in if the weather forecast exceeds 32°C, length of a match, and increase hydration and rest
or conditions reach that temperature.61 The policy breaks under extreme heat.66
prescribes extra breaks at the 15-minute mark of
each quarter for two minutes following a next Cricket Victoria
break in play. Recommends cancelling play or if continued, for
matches to include hydration breaks every 30-60
At 26-32°C, training hours are cut back and extra minutes. However extreme heat is not specifically
breaks are implemented. At 31-35°C, matches can defined.67
be shortened, postponed, or cancelled. Above 36°C,
training and matches are not to be held between
10am-4pm without consultation with the league.

AFL Victoria Country

Regional leagues in Victoria have different heat policy
triggers for children, adolescents and adults.62

For forecasts of 34°C+, matches or training

involving kids and adolescents should be
postponed or cancelled. For adults, training
or matches can be rescheduled. But if they
continue, additional shading areas and water is
to be provided, sessions shortened, and more
interchange made between players. FIGURE 2
THE CLIMATE INSTITUTE REVIEWED HEAT POLICIES ACROSS SPORTS,
AND FOUND A VAST DIFFERENCE AMONG THEM. EVEN WITHIN A
PARTICULAR SPORT, REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL POLICIES VARY.
• 13 • 14
ATHLETES & COACHES
A ball-girl is assisted from the court after collapsing during the
first round match between Milos Raonic of Canada and Daniel
Gimeno-Traver of Spain during their first round match at the
2014 Australian Open on Jan. 14, 2014. (AP via AAP/Aijaz Rahi)

SPEAK UP

In Australia and around the world, extreme weather ... It might be something the NRL can have a look
has led to deteriorating conditions at sporting at for the first month of the competition, just playing
events in recent years. Athletes, coaches, sports night games.” 74
administrators and commentators have spoken up.
Perth Glory coach Alistair Edwards voiced concerns
Among the most vocal were Winter Olympians during following Glory’s match with Adelaide United. “Being
the 2014 games in Sochi, Russia, where unusually asked to play in those conditions is unacceptable;
warm temperatures led to less snow and hampered it ruins the spectacle ... We tried to get the game
many events. Athletes questioned their safety having changed all week, for player welfare issues ... The
to compete in such conditions.72 concern for us is literally the players’ welfare because
basically to play in 35 degree heat is dangerous.”75
US cross country skier Andy Newell led the writing
of a letter, signed by 105 Winter Olympians including The club’s bottom line also suffered, with only 8,574
three Australians, which called on world leaders to fans passing through the gates, 2,000 less than any
take action on climate change and to commit to a home crowd to that point of the season.76
global agreement at the Paris climate talks in 2015.73
During the sweltering 2014 Australian Open,
The letter called for leaders to “recognize climate Kazakhstani tennis player Galina Voskoboeva said:
change by reducing emissions, embracing clean “We were pushing ourselves so hard. It’s not healthy.
energy and preparing a commitment to a global Are we going to wait until someone dies on court?”77
agreement at the UN Framework Convention on
Climate Change in Paris 2015 ... The urgency ... Cricket Australia is among the sporting bodies
is not to be taken lightly since time is definitely that have taken steps to address that worry. Lead
something we do not have on our side.” See Case Sports dietician Michelle Cort told media last year
Study: Defrosting Snow Sports, page 25. that when matches are held under extreme heat, the
players have “to swallow a thermometer pill inside
In Australia, one of the primary concerns has been which monitors core body temperature” as a way of
the impact of extreme heat. keeping track how much heat they can handle.78

Last year, in particular, saw a growing chorus of Alex Rance, Richmond footballer and 2014 All-
concern for the players and spectators alike. There Australian centre half-back, talked to The Climate
have been changes to practices, and questions Institute about playing during the 2014 heatwave.
about whether matches should be held at different He said it affected training, recovery time, and game
times of the year, or day. performance. Rance said he worries about the
sustainability of playing in extreme heat in the long-
Melbourne Storm coach Crag Bellamy called for NRL run, for both players and spectators.
bosses to adjust scheduling to “do the right thing by
the players’ welfare” after the Storm’s season opener “Especially for finals, that’s when you want to see the
IT LOOKS TERRIBLE FOR THE WHOLE SPORT WHEN PEOPLE ARE COLLAPSING,
in 2013 in 34°C Melbourne sun. most elite teams play and if it’s going to be affected BALL KIDS ARE COLLAPSING, PEOPLE IN THE STANDS ARE COLLAPSING. IN
by an extreme heat wave … it’s a real balancing act THIS HEAT, THAT’S WHEN YOU’RE REALLY PUSHING YOUR LIMITS AND YOU
Bellamy said: “It just seems to be the heat is coming that the AFL has to play between burning us out and
later in the year than it used to. It used to come in making the game still good to watch, which obviously DON’T WANT TO SEE ANYTHING BAD HAPPEN TO ANYONE.
January and February and it's now coming in March the environment comes into consideration.” ANDY MURRAY
• 15 • 16
CASE STUDY:
THE RECORD HOT WEATHER EXPERIENCED DURING THE 2014 AUSTRALIAN
OPEN HAS HUMAN FINGERPRINTS ALL OVER IT, SCIENTISTS AT THE UNIVERSITY
OF MELBOURNE CONCLUDED, WITH ODDS OF 100 TO ONE AGAINST.

THE AUSTRALIAN OPEN

Russia’s Maria Sharapova cools off by pouring water over her head during her women’s singles match against Italy's Karin Knapp on day Frank Dancevic of Canada lies on the court after collapsing during his first round match against Benoit Paire of France as temperatures
four of the Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne on January 16, 2014. (AFP/AAP/Mal Fairclough ) topped at 43°C at the Australian Open on January 14, 2014. (AP via AAP/Aijaz Rahi)

Four consecutive days of temperatures above 41°C Players’ sneakers and water bottles melted. Ball kids Some 643,280 people attended the 2014 Australian Over 200 people died, more than double the average
during an already hot summer saw part of the 2014 and spectators collapsed, and fans left in droves to Open,83 down on the 2013 attendance of 684,457.84 for that time of year. There was a 20-fold increase in
Australian Open dubbed “hot as hell” by media.79 avoid the heat. More than 1,000 fans were treated for During the worst of the heat, daily attendances calls to ambulances and most Melbourne hospitals
One of the world’s biggest tennis tournaments, heat exhaustion, mostly on one particularly hot day.82 fell by 12,000 on Tuesday and 15,000 on Friday. were at capacity.87
heavily attended and watched on TV by millions The Australian Financial Review reported that the
across the world, became notorious for the The heat policy was not implemented until the third tournament was “set for a large financial loss from Melbourne is set to host the Australian Open
unbearable conditions in which athletes and day when heat rose above 41°C, despite players, the hot Melbourne weather” as ticket sales plunged every January through to the 2030s. Significant
spectators found themselves. officials and commentators expressing concern by 10 per cent, even though pre-sales had been up improvements in heat management are urgently
about the risk of extreme heat posed to players, 8.5 per cent on the previous year.85 required to keep players and spectators safe,
Players hallucinated, collapsed, vomited and labelled spectators and officials. Once activated, the policy and the city functioning.
the conditions “inhumane”, as matches as long as still required the roofs on both major arenas to remain Meanwhile, major infrastructure systems in
six hours were played in sizzling heat. Croatian Ivan open until the completion of a set underway. This Melbourne buckled, resulting in power losses
Dodig questioned if he would die on court.80 Jamie meant that, for instance, Italian Karin Knapp and and train and tram service cancellations. 86
Murray of the UK experienced painful cramps for Russian superstar Maria Sharapova played for nearly
several hours after playing.81 A record nine players an hour in unshaded 44°C conditions.
retired in the first round.
• 17 • 18
BUILDING GREATER
FIGURE 3
STADIUMS AND OTHER SPORTING GROUNDS AROUND AUSTRALIA ARE MAKING
VARIOUS ADAPTATIONS TO COPE WITH EXTREME WEATHER. THIS GRAPHIC

RESILIENCE
ILLUSTRATES SOME OF THE MOST COMMON ONES.

Renewable energy
Energy efficiency (for instance solar installations)
(for instance LED light bulbs) Retractable roofs for all
weather play

Integrated water
management and
water storage
Operating rooms
and essential
equipment raised
above flood level

Efficiency changes
to heating and
ventilation systems

Synthetic and
warm-season turf
resurfacing

Use of flood resistant Recycling Waste management

construction materials

If sport is to keep its fan base and continue earning of temporary dressing rooms.88 For four months But Melbourne has seen by far the most progressive Most recently, the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground
big profits, arenas and sports grounds across the the stadium didn’t run at full scale, suffering loss changes to its arenas. (MCG) partnered with technology giant Siemens AG
nation will have to make adaptations to keep players of income and the looming possibility of larger to minimise its energy consumption. Set to launch in
and fans safe. insurance premiums. The Victorian government is revamping the May 2015, the project will result in the MCG generating
Melbourne Park precinct at a tune of $338 million. enough energy savings annually to power 835 houses.
Various upgrades, from retractable roofs to flood The total repair bill mounted to $16 million.89 Flood One of the first improvements is a new roof to offer The upgrades include energy efficient lights, a new
proofing operating systems, are underway. These resistant construction materials were used wherever more than 3,200 square metres of shade over and building management system; changes to the heating
often come with additional programs on energy practical including block walls and elevated around three of the courts. The roof was fixed in an and ventilation systems; and a new chilled water
efficiency, renewable energy, water conservation, and relocatable fixtures and fittings.90 The main open position in 2014 and will be fully retractable for system and modernised room control.96
recycling and waste management. This has switchboard was raised above the flood level. Energy the 2015 Australian Open.93
undoubtedly been motivated by cuts to operating and water efficiency measures were put in place, and Like all major developments and infrastructure,
costs as much as by generating environmental the stadium now cuts carbon emissions by offering Melbourne Park already has energy efficiency stadiums and other large sporting grounds should
benefits. They are all part of attempts to increase free public transport with ticket sales.91 measures in place. Integrated water harvesting not be constructed or enhanced without clear
resilience to extreme weather events and changed across the precinct can store 4.5 mega-litres of consideration of climate risks. This should go beyond
rainfall patterns. Metricon Stadium on the Gold Coast has also made water for toilet flushing and irrigation, reducing assessment of current climate exposure to incorporate
operational adaptations. The glass edge of the the precinct’s water use by 72 per cent.94 future climate change. Appropriate future climate
An enduring image from the 2011 floods in stadium’s roof is made from high-efficiency solar scenarios to consider include the internationally
Queensland was the Suncorp Stadium field covered panels. In an Australian first, up to 20 per cent of the Nearby Etihad Stadium has a retractable roof, agreed goal of 2°C rise but also, where possible, the
by 1.5 metres of the muddy water that engulfed the stadium’s total electricity needs will be generated by ensuring that events can go on regardless of weather 4°C towards which we are heading.
city. While the stadium was back up and running this solar halo. Metricon also has water tanks with conditions. The roof, the only one of its kind in the
within four weeks, the damage that was done to significant capacity and recycles as much as 75 per Southern hemisphere, can open or close in eight Management strategies for community grounds
the operating systems and equipment meant the cent of its waste.92 minutes. The stadium has also reduced its water and sport fields should also consider these climate
Maroons (rugby league), the Reds (rugby union) usage by a quarter, by installing 17 rainwater tanks risks, and also incorporate consideration of the
and the Roar (soccer) all won national titles out on its roof.95 climate scenarios.
• 19 • 20
 HURTING LOCALLY

During the Millennium Drought of 2006-2009, ovals In response to the sustained hard, dry playing
and playing grounds across the country dried up conditions, the governing bodies of all major
and cracked. Impact injuries increased significantly. Australian football codes and Cricket Australia
While elite professional venues may be able to afford collaborated with a sports insurance company to
expensive upgrades, local grounds will struggle. develop a new synthetic turf for community fields.
There's evidence already of this struggle. This turf replicates the playing characteristics
of natural grass, and is arguably one of the first
Victoria was particularly hard hit. examples of climate change adaptation
in Australian sport.100
In 2007, three quarters of metro and rural AFL
leagues delayed or cut short their season due to Other responses to warmer, drying conditions
temporary and permanent ground closures. Over include the resurfacing of natural turf grounds
100 community cricket clubs in Geelong were with warmer season grasses, and investments in
forced to end their season three months early, and water efficiency and water-harvesting infrastructure.
football pre-seasons were affected by the lack of Some of these moves have been supported by
available training ovals.97 government and council grants.101

In nearby Dandenong, 74 sports grounds were Although innovative, some of these adaptations
damaged, costing $1.3 million to rehabilitate. present new problems. Synthetic grounds, for
Insurance premiums rose, and some grounds lost instance, are highly reflective of heat, raising
insurability altogether, as was the case for nine the ambient air temperature. They also require
cricket grounds in the City of Moonee Valley.98 more upfront capital as they are more expensive
to install, which may be an obstacle if clubs are
Water restrictions and rising water costs exposed already struggling financially.102
IN 2007, MORE THAN HALF OF COMMUNITY 1,700 water-intensive clay tennis courts throughout
the state. Local governments trucked in water for
SPORTING LEAGUES IN RURAL VICTORIA community grounds at significant cost: the city of
DELAYED OR CUT SHORT THEIR SEASON Boroondara, for example, spent $550,000 to keep
DUE TO DROUGHT. the grounds watered.99
• 21 • 22
THE ARTIFICIAL TURF PROJECT IS ONE
STEP IN THE BATTLE WITH CLIMATE ISSUES
WHICH IMPACT ON GREEN OPEN SPACE,
WHICH IS ESSENTIAL FOR THE SURVIVAL
OF THE GAME.
AFL, 2008

• 23 • 24
CASE STUDY:
SOCHI, RUSSIA: TEMPERATURES OF ABOVE ZERO DURING
THE 2014 WINTER OLYMPIC GAMES CAUSED CONSTANT
MELTING ACROSS THE COURSES AND VENUES.

DEFROSTING
SNOW SPORTS

Snow sports are particularly vulnerable in a warming US skier Andy Newell calling on world leaders
world. Warmer temperatures lead to less snowfall, to address climate change, which they say is
with consequences for ski seasons, alpine tourism, threatening winter sport.109
and athletic training.
In an interview with The Climate Institute,110 Newell
In Australia, snow conditions have been declining said: “Snow conditions are becoming much more
since the 1980s, with as much as 39 per cent of inconsistent, weather patterns more erratic, and what
snow cover lost in the last decade alone. By 2020 was once a topic for discussion is now reality and
that could rise to 60 per cent, according to a Griffith
fact. Our climate is changing and we are losing
University study.104 Other studies predict that ski
slopes could be mostly bare of snow by 2050.105 our winters.”

Alpine resorts make up 2 per cent of Australia's The conditions in Sochi were not an anomaly. A
tourism industry.106 Most of the industry consists of University of Waterloo study found that only six
small businesses, operating in winter. Australia is out of the 19 locations that have hosted the Winter
set to lose winter tourism worth around $1.8 billion, Olympics since 1924 would have a climate suitable
employing some 18,000 people.107 The decrease in for hosting them again in the late 21st century.
snow cover also has a profound impact on spring Among those that would not be suitable were
and summer water supplies and critical agriculture Sochi and winter favourites like Whistler, Canada.
areas like the Murray-Darling Basin that depend
on water from the Australian alps catchments for Snow sport industries have adapted by increasingly
around 30 per cent of its inflow.108 heavy reliance on artificial snowmaking, which
requires significant water and electricity consumption.
Overseas, the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, As temperatures rise further, snowmaking will
Russia, marked a new low in snow conditions during become not only more necessary but also more
a major sports event. Organisers had stockpiled expensive, inefficient and ineffective.
three years’ worth of snow, but temperatures above
zero caused constant melting across the courses Technological and economic thresholds of snowmaking
and venues, endangering the competitors. were reported to be the dominant limit to adaptation
in the Australian winter tourism industry.111
In Sochi, over 100 Olympians – including three
Australians – signed on to a letter penned by

• 25 • 26
Q + A:
MT BULLER, VIC, 2010: LYDIA LASSILA ENJOYING RARE
PROPER SNOW CONDITIONS. LIKE MOST AUSTRALIAN
WINTER SPORTS ATHLETES, SHE HAS TRAINED OVERSEAS

LYDIA LASSILA
SINCE 2009 DUE TO THE UNRELIABLE SNOW CONDITIONS
IN AUSTRALIA.

Australian freestyle skier Lydia Lassila, who has Q: What do you think are the major impacts of
won gold and bronze at the Winter Olympics, was climate change, as you’ve experienced them?
among the 105 Olympians who petitioned world
leaders to address climate change. Even over the last 14 years of my career, I have seen
a shift in pre-season training. It has become more
Q: In Sochi, over 100 Olympians signed on to the unpredictable and it keeps getting pushed back later
letter written by US skier Andy Newell warning into the season not leaving much time to prepare for
that climate change threatens winter sport and the World Cup circuit.
calling for action from world leaders. Why did
you sign? We have had to find ‘early snow’ on glaciers over
3,000 metres (which is not an ideal training altitude
Andy’s letter really resonated with me prior to Sochi. for our sport) or in the far north of Finland in order
As an athlete, it’s easy to get lost in the preparation to guarantee we get the pre-season training in. Less
and focus of an approaching Olympic Games but and less resorts will be able to host an Olympic
no one can deny the grim statistics and impacts of Games and it threatens winter sport in general
climate change. To think the Winter Olympics may which affects sporting cultures particularly in
not exist in years to come is a sad thought. But only the northern hemisphere.
a small piece in the big picture and there is a lot
more at stake, which is why I signed the letter. Q: What do shorter seasons and less predictable
conditions mean for you and other skiers and
Q: In the letter Andy said that “once-consistent snowboarders in Australia?
winters” no longer exist in Vermont where he grew
up. Can you comment on your own experiences? Our seasons are too short to get adequate amount
of on-snow training. Given the unpredictable nature
I didn’t grow up skiing in Australia and found winter of our Aussie winter, many Australian athletes already
sport when I was 17 years old. But since then my train predominately at overseas facilities or resorts.
family have enjoyed the benefits of being able to ski Although I would like to train on home soil, I haven’t
on Australian soil. Australian ski seasons are getting been able to since 2009 due to inconsistency of
shorter and more unpredictable and if it continues the conditions.
down this way, my children, my grandchildren and
their children won’t get to experience snow in the
Aussie alpine regions.
• 27 • 28
CONCLUSION

Among developed countries, Australia is the most reviewed to meet a higher duty of care, especially for
vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. These more vulnerable groups like children and seniors.
are already felt across many aspects of Australian
society, and their severity will increase. Sport, as a Some adaptations, although expensive, are
key part of Australian life, and a major contributor possible for elite sporting leagues that have deep
to economic activity, will need to adapt to this reality. pockets and community reach. But community
Without urgent climate action there will be limits to programs – some of which are already struggling –
the adaptation. will only become harder to sustain.

As this report documents, many sporting bodies The future holds questions around the viability of
are beginning to change in a wide variety of ways outdoor summer sport as we know it, and whether
and with varying effectiveness. Many sports bodies major international tournaments should be moved
have responded to past experiences of extreme to different seasons of the year, at great disruption
heat, drought and flooding by reducing their for host cities and organisers. Winter sports are
exposure to these risks. However, it is less clear perhaps the most vulnerable, as fewer parts of the
that these responses are being done with a world will sustain conditions allowing for sports
clear understanding of future climate change. like skiing, snowboarding and others in a world
that is getting hotter.
To ensure that investments in dealing with extreme
weather are sufficient to cope with climate change, Sport is an important enabler of our wellbeing and a
the management of sports infrastructure and key entertainment or pastime for our nation. If more
operations should incorporate climate change than 80 per cent of the nation is involved in sport at
projections. Tools are being created to facilitate least recreationally, then it is an element of life to be
prediction of climate conditions in specific areas, preserved for future generations.
such as the NSW Department of Environment’s
recently launched Adapt NSW tool, which gives All – from professional players and their management,
local projections through 2070.112 to spectators and commentators – need to be aware
of the risks posed by climate change to sport.
However, even in the short term there are clearly To manage the risks, we all, including political and
shortcomings in the ways that some sports manage business leaders, need to be off the bench and on
climate risks. Policies for dealing with extreme heat the field with our best efforts.
are variable and often inadequate. These need to be
• 29 • 30
NOTES
1 VicHealth, ‘Encouraging regular physical activity’, http://www. 23 Bureau of Meteorology, ‘Australia in spring 2014’, December
vichealth.vic.gov.au/our-work/encouraging-regular-physical-activity 1, 2014, http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/current/season/aus/ 40 Ibid. 56 SANFL, SANFL Heat Policy, http://sanfl.com.au/community_
summary.shtml engagement/policies/heat_policy/
2 NSW Department of the Arts, Sport and Recreation, Sport and 41 R. Tucker, ‘Melting in Melbourne: Thoughts on the heat’, January
recreation and community building, June, 2008, http://www.dsr. 24 L. Hughes and T. McMichael, The Critical Decade: Climate Change 16, 2014, http://sportsscientists.com/2014/01/melting-in- 57 R. Guinness, ‘Tour Down Under chiefs set to cancel stage one if
nsw.gov.au/assets/pubs/industry/study_communitybuilding.pdf and Health, Climate Commission, November, 2011, https://www. melbourne-quick-thoughts-on-the-heat/ fire threat continues’, January 19, 2014, http://www.smh.com.au/
climatecouncil.org.au/commission-climate-change-and-health sport/cycling/tour-down-under-chiefs-set-to-cancel-stage-one-if-
3 Australian Sports Commission, The future of Australian sport, 42 D. Green, ‘How heat can make your body melt down from fire-threat-continues-20140118-311kt.html
2013, http://www.ausport.gov.au/information/nsr/the_future_of_ 25 Ibid. the inside out’, The Conversation, January 16, 2014, http://
australian_sport/reports theconversation.com/how-heat-can-make-your-body-melt-down- 58 Cycling South Australia, Hot Weather Policy, July 14, 2010, http://
26 T.R. Knutson, ‘Multimodel assessment of extreme annual-mean
from-the-inside-out-22042 sa.cycling.org.au/Portals/15/PDF's/0005%20Hot%20Weather%20
warm anomalies during 2013 over regions of Australia and the
4 Ibid. Policy%202010.pdf
western tropical Pacific’, Bull. Amer. Meteor. Soc. 95 (9): S26-S30,
43 NSW Government, ‘Beat the Heat’, November 29, 2012, http://
2014.
5 Australian Bureau of Statistics, Value of Sport, Australia, 2013, www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/beattheheat/Pages/default. 59 AFL, Op. Cit.
http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/4156.0.55.002 aspx
27 S. Lewis and D. Karoly, ‘The role of anthropogenic forcing in the
60 AFL, Football in Extreme Conditions: Guidelines for Prevention of
record 2013 Australia-wide annual and spring temperatures’, Bull.
6 B. Stewart, ‘Why AFL grand final is the most successful event 44 Government of South Australia, ‘Stay healthy in the heat’, http:// Heat Injury, http://www.aflcommunityclub.com.au/fileadmin/user_
Amer. Meteor. Soc. 95 (9): S31-S34, 2014.
in Australia’, The Conversation, September 26, 2014, http:// www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/public+content/ upload/Manage_Your_Club/3._Club_Management_Program/1._
theconversation.com/why-afl-grand-final-is-the-most-successful- sa+health+internet/healthy+living/protecting+your+health/ Club_Policies___Guidelines/heat_policy.PDF
28 S. Perkins et al, ‘Increased simulated risk of the hot Australian
event-in-australia-31984 stay+healthy+in+the+heat/
summer of 2012/13 due to anthropogenic activity as measured by
61 SANFL, Op. Cit.
heat wave frequency and intensity’, Bull. Amer. Meteor. Soc. 95 (9):
7 Cricket Australia, Annual Report 2013-14, 2014, http://www. 45 CFMEU, ‘35° C, That’s Enough - CFMEU hot weather policy’,
S34-S37, 2014.
cricketaustralia.com.au/about/annual-report January 21, 2013, http://www.cfmeuvic.com.au/news/35%C2%B0- 62 WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country, Heat/Cold Policy, February 1,
c-that%E2%80%99s-enough-cfmeu-hot-weather-policy 2007, http://www.aflvic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/AFL-
29 J.M. Arblaster et al, ‘Understanding Australia’s hottest September
8 Footywire, ‘2014 AFL Attendance’, http://www.footywire.com/afl/ Victoria-Country-Heat-and-Cold-Policy.pdf
on record’, Bull. Amer. Meteor. Soc. 95 (9): S37-S41, 2014.
footy/attendances 46 Perkins et al, Op. Cit.
63 International Cricket Council, ‘Rules and Regulations’, http://www.
9 Stewart, Op. Cit. 30 A.D. King et al, ‘Climate change turns Australia's 2013 big dry into
47 R. Lovell, ‘Footballers can’t stand the heat? No sweat – just icc-cricket.com/about/91/rules-and-regulations/overview
a year of record-breaking heat’, Bull. Amer. Meteor. Soc. 95 (9):
fix the fixtures’, The Conversation, November 21, 2013, http://
10 Santos Tour Down Under, ‘Frequently Asked Questions’, http:// S41-S45, 2014. 64 Ibid.
theconversation.com/footballers-cant-stand-the-heat-no-sweat-
www.tourdownunder.com.au/frequently-asked-questions.htm
31 Australian Bureau of Meteorology, Annual Climate Summary 2011, just-fix-the-fixtures-20473
65 Cricket Australia, ‘Rules and Regulations’, http://www.
11 L. Evans, ‘Cricket Australia sets the field for a lucrative summer 2012, http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/annual_sum/2011/index.
48 S. Sherwood et al, ‘Heat Stress in a Warming World’, December, cricketaustralia.com.au/cricket/rules-and-regulations
of sport’, The Australian, November 21, 2014, http://www. shtml
2010, http://www.australasianscience.com.au/article/issue-
theaustralian.com.au/business/the-deal-magazine/cricket- december-2010/heat-stress-warming-world.html 66 Cricket South Australia, SACA Heat Policy, http://www.cricketsa.
australia-sets-the-field-for-a-lucrative-summer-of-sport/story- 32 Department of Infrastructure and Transport, State of Australian
com.au/library/SACA%20HEAT%20POLICY.pdf
e6frgabx-1227127294532 Cities 2013, Australian Government, July, 2013, http://www.
49 Tennis Australia, ‘Fine summer ahead for tennis fans’, December
infrastructure.gov.au/infrastructure/pab/soac/
2, 2014, http://www.tennis.com.au/news/2014/12/02/fine-summer- 67 Cricket Victoria, Cricket Victoria Extreme Heat Guidelines, http://
12 Australian Bureau of Statistics, Op Cit.
ahead-for-tennis-fans www.cricketvictoria.com.au/files/pages/laws-and-policies/Cricket_
33 Ibid.
13 Australian Sports Commission, Op Cit. Victoria_Extreme_Heat_Guidelines.pdf
34 L. Delworth and F. Zeng, ‘Regional rainfall decline in Australia 50 B. Guthrie, ‘Buckley calls for action on heat policy’, AFL, February
14 Frontier Economics, The economic contribution of sport to attributed to anthropogenic greenhouse gases and ozone levels’, 18, 2013, http://www.afl.com.au/news/2013-02-18/act-on-heat- 68 Cycling South Australia, Op. Cit.
Australia, January, 2010, http://www.frontier-economics.com.au/ Nature Geoscience 7: 583-587, 2014, doi:10.1038/ngeo2201. buckley
news/economic-contribution-sport-australia/ 69 Cycling Victoria, Extreme Weather Policy and Guidelines,
15 Ibid. 35 State of Queensland, Increasing Queensland’s resilience to inland 51 R. Gould, ‘Melbourne Storm turn up heat for new rule’, The Daily http://www.vic.cycling.org.au/Portals/17/Policies/Extreme%20
flooding in a changing climate: Final Report of the Inland Flooding Telegraph, March 15, 2013, http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/ Weather%20Policy%20and%20Guidelines.pdf
16 D. Mackellar, ‘My Country’, first published 1911. Study, 2010, www.ehp.qld.gov.au/climatechange/pdf/inland-flood- sport/nrl/melbourne-storm-turns-up-heat-for-new-rule/story-
study.pdf e6frexnr-1226597601026 70 Tennis Australia, Extreme Weather Policy, September, 2014, http://
17 Climate Council, Angry Summer 2013/2014, March 10, 2014, www.tennis.com.au/vic/files/2013/12/TA-Extreme-Weather-policy.
http://www.climatecouncil.org.au/angry-summer 52 B. Elborough, ‘Perth Glory couch Alistair Edwards blasts pdf
36 K.J. Bormann, ‘Satellite based observations for seasonal snow
A-League’s heat policy’, Sydney Morning Herald, November 17,
cover detection and characterisation in Australia’, Remote Sensing
18 Ibid. 2013, http://www.smh.com.au/sport/soccer/perth-glory-coach- 71 Ibid.
of Environment, 123: 57-71, 2012, doi:10.1016/j.rse.2012.03.003.
alistair-edwards-blasts-aleagues-heat-policy-20131116-2xo4r.html
19 Bureau of Meteorology and CSIRO, State of the Climate 2014, 72 A. McPherson, ‘Slushy Sochi: Warm weather shows challenges of
37 A.J. Dowdy et al, 'Fewer large waves projected for eastern subtropical snowmaking’, National Geographic, February 14, 2014,
2014, http://www.csiro.au/Outcomes/Climate/Understanding/ 53 R. Homfray, ‘St Kilda coach Scott Watters wants a review of heat
Australia due to decreasing storminess', Nature Climate Change http://news.nationalgeographic.com.au/news/2014/02/140214-
State-of-the-Climate-2014.aspx policy after scorching start to AFL's NAB Cup’, Fox Footy, February
4:283-286, 2014, doi:10.1038/nclimate2142 snow-conditions-melt-sochi-olympics/
18, 2013, http://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/news/st-kilda-coach-
20 Bureau of Meteorology, 'Annual Climate Statement 2014', January scott-watters-wants-a-review-of-heat-policy-after-scorching-start-
6, 2015, http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/current/annual/aus/ 38 CSIRO, ‘Projections of days over 35°C to 2100 for all capital cities to-afls-nab-cup/story-e6frf3el-1226580049660?nk=9bbb415ee5c 73 Protect Our Winters, ‘US ski team member Andrew Newell & 105
under a no-mitigation case’, 2008, http://www.garnautreview.org. 55ef61cd3b98da452d5d6 Winter Olympians call for climate action’, February 10, 2014, http://
21 S. Lewis and S. Perkins, ‘Human hands are all over Australia’s au/pdf/Garnaut_Chapter5.pdf. protectourwinters.org/newell-2890
hottest ever year’, The Conversation, September 30, 2014, https:// 54 Guthrie, Op Cit.
theconversation.com/human-hands-are-all-over-australias-hottest- 39 L. Hanna, ‘It’s time for Australia to change its attitude to extreme 74 S. Paxinos, ‘Coach raises concerns for players as heat is turned
ever-year-32267 heat’, The Conversation, January 21, 2014, http://theconversation. 55 AFL, National Extreme Weather Policy, June, 2013, http://www. up and opposition opts to play on’, March 11, 2013, http://www.
com/its-time-for-australia-to-change-its-attitude-to-extreme- afl.com.au/staticfile/AFL%20Tenant/AFL/Files/Schedule%207%20 smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/coach-raises-concerns-
22 Bureau of Meteorology, 'Annual Climate Statement 2014', Op. Cit. heat-22164 -%20National%20Extreme%20Weather%20Policy.pdf for-players-as-heat-is-turned-up-and-opposition-opts-to-play-on-
20130310-2fu75.html
• 31 • 32
NOTES
75 Elborough, Op Cit. 92 Metricon Stadium, ‘Metricon Stadium & The Environment’, http://
www.metriconstadium.com.au/the-stadium/metricon-stadium-
76 Ibid. and-the-environment/

77 P. Newman, ‘Australian Open 2014: Dizziness, cramp and fatigue 93 State Government Victoria, ‘Melbourne Park Redevelopment’,
as heat stops play at last - with Jamie Murray among the worst http://www.majorprojects.vic.gov.au/project/melbourne-park-
affected’, January 16, 2014, http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/ redevelopment/
tennis/australian-open-2014-dizziness-cramp-and-fatigue-as-
heat-stops-play-at-last--with-jamie-murray-among-the-worst- 94 State Government Victoria, ‘New water recycling system to reduce
affected-9065291.html Melbourne Park’s water use’, October 19, 2011, http://www.
majorprojects.vic.gov.au/new-water-recycling-system-to-reduce-
78 R. Earle, ‘Australia’s heat strategy in UAE to feature laser urine melbourne-parks-water-use/
tests, funky icy poles’, The Advertiser, October 14, 2014, http://
95 Etihad Stadium, ‘Design & Stadium Information’, http://www.
www.adelaidenow.com.au/sport/cricket/australias-heat-strategy-
etihadstadium.com.au/about/design-stadium-information
in-uae-to-feature-laser-urine-tests-funky-icy-poles/story-
fnii0bxe-1227090110975 96 MCG, ‘Sustainability hits a six at home of sport’, November 18,
2014, http://authoring.mcc.org.au/sitecore/content/MCG/Website/
79 A. Wills, 'It's Hot as Hell in Australia Right Now', Mashable News/News/2014/November/Energy%20Efficiency%20Upgrade.
Australia, January 15, 2014, http://mashable.com/2014/01/14/ aspx
australia-heatwave-photos/
97 Municipal Association of Victoria, Strategies for Managing Sports
80 G. Bishop, ‘At the Australian Open, it’s not the heat, it’s the Surfaces in a Drier Climate: Key Findings, 2007.
stupidity’, The New York Times, January 17, 2014, http://www.
nytimes.com/2014/01/18/sports/tennis/players-are-not-cool-with- 98 G. Dingle, ‘Climate change and sport in Australia’, La Trobe
australian-open-heat-policy.html?_r=0 University (video used as a teaching material).

81 Newman, Op. Cit. 99 S. Coverdale, Municipal Association of Victoria- Sports Surfaces

Task Force: Strategies for Managing Sports Surfaces in a Drier
82 K. Hagan et al, ‘More than 1000 tennis fans treatedfor heat Climate, July, 2007
exhaustion’, The Age, January 16, 2014, http://www.theage.
com.au/victoria/more-than-1000-tennis-fans-treated-for-heat- 100 AFL and Cricket Australia, ‘Synthetic Turf Program’, http://www.
exhaustion-20140116-30xba.html aflcommunityclub.com.au/fileadmin/user_upload/Play_AFL/
Multicultural/AFL_CA_Synthetic_Turf_Program_Brochure.pdf
83 Tennis Australia, ‘AO 2014: The final word’, January 27, 2014,
http://www.tennis.com.au/news/2014/01/27/ao-2014-the-final-word 101 The Climate Institute, Q+A: Ricky Bell, 2015.

84 Tennis Australia, ‘Australian Open 2013 – The final word’, January 102 Ibid.
28, 2013, http://www.tennis.com.au/news/2013/01/28/australian-
open-2013-the-final-word 103 Ibid.

85 J. Stensholt, ‘Tennis Australia feels the heat from slow ticket sales 104 S. Small, ‘End of Australian snow in sight’, Griffith News,
at Open’, The Australian Financial Review, January 20, 2014, http:// September 5, 2012, https://app.griffith.edu.au/news/2012/09/05/
www.afr.com/p/lifestyle/sport/tennis_australia_feels_the_heat_ end-of-australian-snow-in-sight/
vUMDisJInb2zRZksxvzHiL
105 G.L. Worboys and R.B. Good, Caring For Our Australian Alps
Catchments: Summary Report For Policy Makers, Department of
86 A. Carey et al, ‘Heatwave chaos: More of the same as trains, trams
Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, 2011.
go into meltdown’, The Age, January 17, 2014, http://www.theage.
com.au/victoria/heatwave-chaos-more-of-the-same-as-trains- 106 National Institute of Economic and Industry Research, The
trams-go-into-meltdown-20140116-30xt7.html Economic Significance of the Australian Alpine Resorts, December,
2012, http://www.arcc.vic.gov.au/assets/Uploads/research/2011-
87 J. Medew, ‘Deaths spark call to review state’s heatwave plan’, The
EconomicSignificanceStudy-FullReport.pdf
Age, January 23, 2014, http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/deaths-
spark-call-to-review-states-heatwave-plan-20140122-3196i. 107 C. Hackworth, interview with Cameron Wilson, Bush Telegraph,
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109 Protect Our Winters, Op Cit.
89 Suncorp Stadium, ‘Environment’, http://www.suncorpstadium.
110 The Climate Institute, Q+A: Ricky Bell, 2015.
com.au/The_Stadium/Environment.aspx

111 C. Morrison and C. Pickering, ‘Limits to climate change adaptation:

90 Suncorp Stadium, ‘Final siren sounds on Suncorp Stadium flood
Case study of the Australian alps’, Geographical Research 51 (1):
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11-25, 2013, doi: 10.1111/j.1745-5871.2012.00758.x
91 Suncorp Stadium, ‘Environment’, Op Cit. 112 NSW Government, ‘AdaptNSW’, Op. Cit.

• 33 • 34
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