Kiama's treacherous coastline has become the testing ground for new artificial intelligence surveillance technology aimed at preventing further rock fishing tragedies after eleven people lost their lives over the past fifteen years.
Deadly History Prompts High-Tech Response
The popular fishing location has witnessed multiple drownings, including the heartbreaking loss of father and son Nelson and Joshua Chan, aged 47 and 17, who were swept from the rocks in August last year. Official statistics reveal seven rock fishing fatalities have occurred in Kiama during the past decade, with the total reaching eleven deaths over fifteen years.
This grim tally has earned Kiama the unfortunate distinction of being classified as one of New South Wales' highest-risk coastal locations for rock fishing activities.
How the AI Surveillance System Works
The newly installed artificial intelligence cameras represent a significant advancement in coastal safety technology. These sophisticated systems can detect the exact moment when someone is swept off the rocks and immediately trigger an alert to emergency services.
Kiama joins Little Bay in the Randwick local government area as one of only two NSW locations participating in the 14-month trial, known as the SAIL Project (Surveillance AI for Lifesaving) operated by Surf Life Saving NSW.
The technology has already proven its worth during testing at Malabar, where cameras identified fishermen being swept into the water during heavy swell conditions. A jet-ski was promptly dispatched to rescue them, demonstrating the system's potential to save lives in real emergency situations.
Community and Government Support
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib expressed strong support for the initiative, stating that any technology capable of helping emergency services respond faster to prevent tragedies deserves exploration.
"Both Kiama and Little Bay have sadly seen too many heartbreaking incidents," Mr Dib said. "By working with Surf Life Saving NSW, we're taking practical steps aimed at making the NSW coastline safer, and already, we are seeing lives saved."
Kiama MP Katelin McInerney acknowledged the profound impact these repeated tragedies have had on the local community.
"It's encouraging to see innovative safety solutions being trialled to help save lives," she said. "I encourage everyone to stay alert to conditions and always wear a life jacket while enjoying our coastline."
Surf Life Saving NSW chief executive officer Steve Pearce reinforced the importance of safety measures, noting that rock fishing remains one of the highest-risk coastal activities.
"I urge rock fishers to wear a life jacket every time they fish and avoid situations where they put their lives at risk this summer," Mr Pearce emphasized.
The AI camera trial represents a collaborative effort between government agencies and surf life saving organizations to address the persistent danger facing rock fishers along Australia's beautiful but unpredictable coastline.
