BY DAKOTA TAIT
New technology helping to keep beachgoers safe is being expanded to Newcastle.
The Smart Beaches program is already being used at Lake Macquarie, but the State Government is now extending it to five more council areas along the coast.
Digital Government Minister Victor Dominello says it will help both lifeguards and visitors feel more secure on the shore.
"We’ll be using wave detection buoys, artificial intelligence cameras and surf rescue boards fitted with GPS technology to gather accurate data on beach conditions so our lifeguards can be better prepared for the busy summer ahead," he said.
"These smart devices will provide real-time readings on tide conditions and wave patterns, as well as help predict how many people will visit the beach, how long they will stay and the most popular times for a swim."
The $1.6 million spend will also see the program expanded to Randwick, Sutherland, Wollongong, and the Central Coast.
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| Image credit: Visit Newcastle. |
