Surf safe is set to extend the reach of its beach patrols and coastal rescue responses, thanks to a $1.2 million grant from the AustralianGovernment’s ‘Clever Networks’ program, to a consortium of emergency service agencies in Western Australia. According to Chris Peck,Operations Manager at SLSWA, the grant will enable effective coverage of populated parts of the coast without the need for investment in infrastructure such as additional facilities for life saving operations. The strategies include:• Installing a new integrated communication management system – SurfCom• Connecting SLSWA’s 13 regional clubs intoSurfCom using radio over internet protocols• Replacing all hand-held analogue two-way radios with digital and GPS based units• Installing 30 CoastalComm intelligent web based surveillance cameras• Distributing 27 public emergency reporting points(ERPs) at locations in proximity to surf clubs“The grant will ensure that surf lifesavers can extend their coverage and reduce response times without placing further stress on its volunteer system,” Peck said. “There will some challenges, such as broadband connectivity in some regional locations, but with the assistance of project partners Fire and Emergency ServicesWA, the Department of Industry and ResourcesWA and CoastalWatch, this will benefit all coastal users in Western Australia.”The strategies will be rolled out as part of aphased strategy over the next three years.The move comes after the recent announcement of a strategic partnership with Coastal watch which will integrate Coastal watch’s CoastalConditions Monitoring System with Surf LifeSaving’s own coastal surveillance networks, resulting in more beaches under guard.More information Mo Contact your Surf Life Saving state centreMore than 100 people attended the inaugural Beach Safety and the Law Summit on theGold CoastSurf Life Saving has identified the better use of technology as a key priority to help expand life saving capacity around the coastline. Shown above is Coastal watch’s surveillance system which will be integrated with Surf Life Saving’s own networks.
