A Smartphone Rip-Detection Tool to Improve Rip Current Awareness in Australia
Harley, Mitchell D Qian, Shenyang Song, Yang Razzak, Imran Walsh, Toby Brander, Rob Peden, Amy Irvine, Rachel Lawes, Jasmin Daw, Shane
Harley, Mitchell D
Qian, Shenyang
Song, Yang
Razzak, Imran
Walsh, Toby
Brander, Rob
Peden, Amy
Irvine, Rachel
Lawes, Jasmin
Daw, Shane
Supervisor
Department
Computational Biology
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Conference proceeding
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Abstract
Rip currents claim more lives annually in Australia than floods, bushfires, cyclones, or shark attacks, with fatalities disproportionately affecting young males and occurring at unpatrolled beaches. Despite ongoing investments in surf lifesaving, safety infrastructure, and educational campaigns, rip current-related deaths are rising, highlighting the need for innovative solutions. Addressing this challenge, the “RipEye” project leverages computer vision technology to detect rip currents via smartphone cameras. This collaborative initiative, involving Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) and multidisciplinary university researchers, focuses on three objectives: (1) compiling a rip current detection dataset specific to Australian beaches, (2) optimizing image and video analysis techniques for accurate rip detection, and (3) evaluating the framework’s feasibility to enhance public awareness and safety practices. By targeting unpatrolled beaches and high-risk demographics, the RipEye project seeks to supplement traditional lifesaving methods, providing accessible tools for rip current identification. This paper outlines the methodology behind RipEye, presents preliminary findings, and discusses its potential impact in improving beach safety.
Citation
M.D. Harley, S. Qian, Y. Song, I. Razzak, T. Walsh, R. Brander , et al., "A Smartphone Rip-Detection Tool to Improve Rip Current Awareness in Australia," 2026, pp. 717-721.
Source
Coastal Research Library
Conference
Coastal Dynamics 2025
Keywords
33 Built Environment and Design, 3303 Design
Subjects
Source
Coastal Dynamics 2025
Publisher
Springer Nature