For the first time in Australia artificial intelligence will be commercially used to detect and monitor bushfires, as the State Government upgrades vital infrastructure to protect the South East – along with its $860 million forestry industry – in time for summer.
Delivering on the Malinauskas Labor Government's $2.346 million election commitment to upgrade the towers – Pano AI was today announced as the successful tender of the full camera-based fire detection system.
The project is being implemented in partnership with Green Triangle Forest Industries Hub (GTFIH), with $1 million of the funds targeting the new technology.
This plus substantial contributions from industry will enable this transformative technology.
The transition to the AI powered bushfire detection and monitoring system, will result in an Australian first fully integrated active bushfire detection platform utilising satellite technology, ultra-HD 360-degree panoramic cameras and AI aimed at improving early detection of fires.
Early detection is the key element of the Green Triangle Forest Industry's rapid response fire management process, helping to identify and extinguish any potential fire outbreaks before they become a threat.
The new system follows technology trials conducted at The Bluff, Penola North and Mt Burr towers along with a further industry funded camera at Centenary Tower during the 2022–23 fire season. Installation work on the cutting-edge system is expected to commence shortly and be in place in time for the 2023–24 fire season.
Other tower upgrade works including access infrastructure is already underway with the design for the new Penola North Tower now complete. The new tower is also expected to be operational in time for the forthcoming fire season.
