All 24 expeditioners were evacuated from Macquarie Island in August after the federal environment department warned of the 'psychosocial' risks of witnessing a prolonged bird flu outbreak. But in a letter later obtained by the ABC, the expeditioners described the decision as 'unnecessary' and warned that leaving the island's aging fuel farm unmanned could cause major environmental damage. H5 bird flu has since been detected in an elephant seal and a kelp gull on the island, confirming the virus's presence.
organisation
Australian federal environment department
Australian government department responsible for environmental policy and protection