Infrastructure and Technology

Current research projects

Bank stabilisation trials - Hope Island

During 2005 the local community of Hope Island approached Gold Coast City Council seeking a solution to a foreshore erosion problem along the Coomera River frontage of Charles Holm Park. This area of foreshore has experienced erosion problems for a number of years, predominately as a result of wave action generated by boating activity. A trial of bank stabilization techniques commenced. The stabilization is provided by sections of geotextile fabric provided by Soil Filters Australia Pty Ltd, A-jacks concrete armor units provided by Besser Masonry, and standard rock rip-rap installed by Gold Coast City Council.

Renewable energy - waves

As part of the development of a renewable energy strategy for the Gold Coast, there is a need to assess a range of energy sources and their viability. This project investigated wave energy and the means of harnessing it on the Gold Coast. The project will provide Council with an overview of the scope and applicability of wave derived energy and will also quantify the Gold Coast wave energy resource; assess the feasibility of harnessing that resource; and recommend to Council the suitability of wave energy sites and technologies for possible future investment.

Predicting beach condition using video imagery and neural networks

The Beach Condition Index Project utilises video cameras mounted in the Surf Lifeguard towers to provide an assessment of the change that occurs on a beach throughout the day and over a time scale of months and years. Artificial intelligence techniques applied to the data obtained from real-time video images of beach conditions are used to develop a predictive capability for changes in conditions. To this end a prototype monitoring station has been established at Narrowneck to undertake beach and surf assessments.