Gladstone Ports Corporation CEO Leo Zussino said the IP camera has been installed as a joint initiative of GPC and the Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ).
“GPC has provided the funding for the IP camera to be installed and maintained for the next 3 years,” Mr Zussino added.
“The installation of this camera will provide real benefits for the ocean loving residents of the Gladstone region.
“Not only will it assist in the saving of lives on our premier surf beach but also allow the Gladstone community to check out surf conditions before they make the long drive from Gladstone to Agnes.
The IP camera has been installed using the latest in technology from innovative Australian company Coastalwatch, using the Milestone XProtect video management system to provide live video surveillance and critical real-time data to marine safety and coastal management officials.
The camera system will be able to store up to 14 days of archived vision.
Surf Life Saving Queensland Chief Operations Officer George Hill welcomed the technology, saying it would be a vital tool for surf lifesavers as they seek to improve safety and prevent drownings on the region’s beaches.
“The cameras will be used in addition to SLSQ’s regular volunteer lifesaving patrols and lifeguard service,” Mr Hill said.
“It will also be used as a safety measure and has the capacity to provide tsunami alerts to beachgoers and monitor surf conditions such as wave heights and facilitate emergency rescues.”
Surf Life Saving Queensland already operates 22 coastal cameras across Queensland, which are strategically positioned in identified high risk and high population areas. The new camera will take the tally to 23.
