National coastal observation

The Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH), the Integrated Marine Observing System (IMOS) and the Oceans Policy Scientific Advisory Group (OPSAG) hosted a workshop at the Sydney Institute of Marine Science (SIMS) on 6 August 2010 to discuss a new, national approach to marine coastal observation. The workshop focused on the needs and drivers for a national coastal observing system, on the global context, and on the current state and future opportunities for coastal observation in Australia.

The workshop was opened by the NSW Chief Scientist and Scientific Engineer, Professor Mary O'Kane, and attended by 50 participants from 24 organisations around Australia that are interested in coastal research including universities such as University of NSW, Sydney University, as well as Industry and Investment NSW, SIMS, the CSIRO, Royal Australian Navy and Australian Institute of Marine Science, members of the OPSAG and the Director of the IMOS. OEH’s research vessel, the RV Bombora, was moored at SIMS during the morning for inspection.

The Oceans Policy Scientific Advisory Group (OPSAG) was a co-host of the workshop. OPSAG comprises representatives of major marine science providers. It reports to the Federal Minister for Innovation, Industry and Science and provides national leadership in marine science infrastructure. In the Marine National Research Framework policy document, Management and protection of the coastal zone was identified as one of five priority areas, so OPSAG has a clear role in making recommendations about coastal observing infrastructure.

The Integrated Marine Observing System (IMOS) was also a co-host of the workshop. IMOS is a prominent example of what can be achieved when the marine science community works together. Current IMOS infrastructure is deployed mostly offshore, so there are gaps in our information and ability to measure changes in the nearshore. The experience gained and networks established through IMOS are relevant for considering any potential future nationally coordinated approach to coastal observation. 

The workshop identified actions towards a common approach for coastal observing around Australia. A report from the workshop [NatlCoastObsSystemWkshopRreport.pdf, 395kb] is available.