Technology is already helping solve some of the world’s toughest problems, from spreading internet access more evenly, to making roads safer.
But what if it could be used to help tackle a situation a little closer to home? Optus is teaming up with Shark Mitigation Systems, an Australian company, on a project that aims to help spot sharks at our beaches, and then alert lifeguards so they can take action.
How will they do it? Their idea is to place newly-developed sonar technology on a series of ‘clever buoys’ around popular beaches. If the buoys detect a shark-like object in the water, they can give lifeguards a heads up using a combination of the Optus Network and Google+ technology.
The idea for the project came about in a brainstorm between Optus, Google, and M&C Saatchi. We think it’s a great example of what happens when creativity and technology get together (and go to the beach).
The project is still in a proof-of-concept R&D phase, and is being tested in WA and NSW. Optus have big plans for this project, and we’re delighted to be supporting them.
Posted by Roberta Macdonald, Head of Creative Agency Engagement, Google Australia and New Zealand