GLADSTONE Ports Corporation and CSIRO have teamed up to better understand the environment and improve safety systems with a new water quality and wind monitoring station at the Port of Bundaberg.
The equipment is located on top of a pylon in the mouth of the river and is expected to collect an in-depth reading of the water and deliver comprehensive data.
The data collected will offer GPC and CSIRO scientists a better understanding of the environment surrounding the Port of Bundaberg.
The new equipment is an upgrade on what CSIRO was previously using at the Sir Thomas Hiley Wharf to measure water quality and wind.
CSIRO research scientist Geoffrey Carlin said the pylon is well positioned for monitoring the effects on coastal waters and the effects on reefs.
“The installation of water quality monitoring instrumentation is a collaborative effort that provides key data to CSIRO, GPC, Maritime Safety Queensland, and Queensland Sugar Limited to improve our management of Australia’s marine areas,” Mr Carlin said.
As well as keeping an eye on the environment, the monitoring technology will be able to send real-time updates to help GPC pilots navigate ships safely in and out of the port.
GPC acting CEO Craig Walker said the technology is a win for the environment and for safety systems at GPC.
“Our employees and their expertise are our greatest assets and they are continuously working to improve every facet of our operations,” Mr Walker said.
“Environmental sustainability underpins everything we do and this technology upgrade will enable us to closely monitor the environment we operate in.” Raw data will also be accessible in real time on the CSIRO website.
