Artificial intelligence cameras will be tested to see if they can detect crocodiles in waters across northern Queensland.
The Queensland Government is teaming up with James Cook University (JCU) to test AI-linked cameras mounted on a trailer that will be tested across the state’s north.
Qld Senior Conservation Officer Daniel Guymer said JCU researchers analysed thousands of hours of their footage to train artificial intelligence to identify crocodiles from other objects in the water.
“The aim is to create a reliable detection system that could be deployed on fixed or mobile infrastructure in high recreation-use areas,” Guymer says.
“This is a significant step forward as we continue looking … to improve public safety in areas where crocodiles live.
“If successful, this technology could revolutionise how we monitor crocodiles, providing real-time data to help us manage crocodiles as effectively and efficiently as possible,” he says.
ARTIFICIAL DETECTING
The project leader, Senior Lecturer Dr Tao (Kevin) Huang, said baseline tests have already shown that artificial intelligence can detect crocodiles.
“We now need to check that it can detect crocodiles in the water in real time,” he says.
“If the program is successful, it could lead to the technology being used at public locations such as boat ramps or in marinas.
“Our aim is to detect crocodiles, while also considering future extensions of the artificial intelligence to estimate their size, which could assist wildlife rangers in investigating sightings.”
OLYMPIC VENUE IN CROCODILE HABITAT
The news follows state government insistence that the 2023 Brisbane Olympics flatwater rowing and canoeing events scheduled for the Fitzroy River at Rockhampton remains on course.
The river is a known crocodile habitat with four crocodile sightings reported in the last 30 days, according to the government’s dashboard (click here to use the dashboard); concerns have been raised over the choice of site.
World Rowing and International Canoe Federation delegates visited Rockhampton to inspect the river; the competition will be held over a two-kilometre course with a southern finish line downstream.
The government says no other venues will be considered for the events with detailed planning now going ahead.
World Rowing President Jean-Christophe Rolland says they are appreciative about the engagement with the project.
“We look forward to continuing to work with stakeholders to undertake further technical assessments of the Fitzroy River for a final position.”
International Canoe Federation President Thomas Konietzko is also looking forward to finishing their assessment process.
“We welcome the feasibility work completed so far and will continue to provide practical technical guidance as planning progresses,” he says.
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