Rock fishing is one of Australia's most dangerous recreational activities, responsible for around 13 deaths each year. Since 2004, more than 190 lives have been lost—185 from drowning and several others due to injuries related to hazardous conditions. Many of these deaths occur in well-known hot spots like Sydney’s eastern beaches, where high swells, slippery rock platforms, and fast-changing weather make fishing from the rocks an exceptionally risky pursuit.
The latest Australian Easter weekend tragically underscored this danger. A string of fatalities across New South Wales and Victoria was directly linked to extreme surf and rapidly shifting coastal conditions. Despite repeated warnings and mandatory life jacket laws, several lives were lost in preventable circumstances. 👉 Read the full story
What these events make clear is that we need better tools—not just warnings or regulations—to help people stay safe. That's where Unleash live’s Smart Beaches app comes in.
How Unleash live’s Smart Beaches App Works
Unleash live’s Smart Beaches solution uses real-time Machine Learning AI video analytics to monitor hazardous surf conditions with greater speed and accuracy than ever before. Using existing infrastructure like CCTV cameras and drone feeds, the platform continuously scans the environment to detect risks that human eyes can miss.
Here’s what it does:
- Monitors live video feeds from coastal cameras and drone footage
- Detects dangerous conditions such as rogue waves, strong surges, and slippery surfaces
- Alerts Surf Life Saving teams and councils in real time
- Supports faster response times by providing actionable intelligence instantly
- Enhances long-term safety planning by collecting data on recurring risks and seasonal patterns
Traditional methods like manual observation or signage often come too late or fail to deter people from entering dangerous areas. With Smart Beaches, authorities can identify risks before they escalate and take immediate, targeted action—whether that’s dispatching a lifesaver, closing off a hazardous area, or issuing public alerts.
Why Technology Matters in Coastal Safety
Rock fishing accounts for roughly 4% of all drowning deaths in Australia. What makes it particularly tragic is that many victims are visitors or migrants unfamiliar with local conditions and unaware of safety rules. Cultural and language barriers often mean vital warnings go unheeded.
Although some areas have introduced mandatory life jacket laws for rock fishers, compliance remains inconsistent. Enforcement is difficult without real-time visibility. Smart Beaches can bridge that gap.
By combining Machine Learning AI with accessible visual data, Smart Beaches empowers local councils, emergency services, and Surf Life Saving teams to make faster, more informed decisions. It’s not just about reacting to emergencies—it’s about preventing them in the first place.
Learn More
At Unleash live, we believe technology should serve people and protect lives. Smart Beaches is just one way we’re using AI to support public safety across Australia’s coastlines.
🔗 Explore more public safety solutions via our Public Safety blogs.
📞 Talk to us to learn how Smart Beaches could help in your area.
