Catching Oz Waves

The Challenge

Wave dynamics are critical to ocean industries, coastal development and leisure activities. While real-time and delayed mode surface wave buoy data are already available on the Integrated Marine Observing System’s Australian Ocean Data Network (AODN) Portal, there is much more data that could contribute to understanding and monitoring waves.

The Response

This project will develop a national data asset of Australian in-situ wave observations and facilitate improved data delivery to national and international stakeholders.

The expanded  range of data outputs will include wave spectra information (frequency and direction) and raw displacement of the surface elevation in addition to the existing time series of common parameters (for example, significant wave height and peak wave period).

The implementation of governance and key processes, metadata standards and other guidance will enable new partnerships and additional data contributions, including observation buoys.

Who Will Benefit

Government agencies, researchers, research organisations, commercial marine organisations will benefit from:

• improved and documented workflows for real-time and delayed mode data
• expanded data coverage including wave spectra information (frequency and direction) and raw displacement of the surface elevation, in addition to existing time series of common parameters (for example, significant wave height and peak wave period)
• consistent data outputs through the implementation of quality control/assurance procedures and data/metadata standards.

The Partners

Our partners are:

• IMOS
• NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment
• The University of Western Australia
• RPS MetOcean Pty Ltd
• CSIRO
• Bureau of Meteorology
• Deakin University
• The University of Melbourne
• Pilbara Ports Authority
• Queensland Department of Environment and Science
• University of Tasmania
• Australian Institute of Marine Science
• Western Australia Department of Transport
• Manly Hydraulics Laboratory.

Target Outcomes

The project will deliver a harmonised, standardised and trustworthy collection of wave measurements, and provide a foundation for additional data contributions from the deployment of wave buoys in new locations.