Marine science in the Northern Territory is unique, and we provide the state’s only local, independent oceanographic advisory and monitoring service.
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We use local, experienced operators who have a deep understanding of the environment, equipment and processes that work in the Top End. Importantly, we listen to what the challenge is and draw on our specialist skills to create solutions tailored to clients’ requirements.
In the wake of a rapidly changing climate, improving our understanding of Australia’s northern oceans is critical. We are actively working to address this by building strong collaborative partnerships with local organisations and stakeholders, including Indigenous groups and researchers, building long-term capability in the Top End and pioneering innovative and cost-effective ocean monitoring techniques.
Key services
We deliver tailored, innovative, cost-effective and culturally appropriate solutions, including:
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Designing short and long-term ocean data collection, analysis and interpretation for environmental impact assessments and strategic environmental assessments
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Commercial advisory services on oceanographic processes
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Instrument-based water quality and hydrodynamic monitoring to support environmental impact assessments, hydrodynamic, water quality and sediment transport modelling , compliance monitoring and determining baseline conditions
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Advanced oceanographic monitoring using robotics and autonomous systems, such as Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USVs)
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Strategic review of hydrodynamic, water quality and sediment transport models along the Northern Territory coastline
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Strategic planning to deliver purpose-built and locally appropriate oceanographic monitoring networks
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Physical and ecological oceanographic advisory services and research relevant to climate change impacts, cumulative impacts, and industry
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Connecting industry and researchers, local and interstate, to boost capability in the Northern Territory.
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These services can be procured collectively or individually as required.
Lead by experts
Lead
Dr Ruth Patterson
Doctorate of Philosophy, Charles Darwin University, Bachelor of Engineering, civil, Charles Darwin University,
Bachelor of Science, the University of Melbourne, Unrestricted Coxswain (2012)
Dr. Patterson is a local leader in physical and ecological oceanographic research with over 17 years of experience in the Northern Territory, spanning government, industry, research and Defence. Ruth is internationally recognised in her leadership of advancing ocean observing using uncrewed surface vessels. Ruth is a subject matter expert in the design and operation of appropriate technology for marine environmental monitoring, particularly in remote locations across the Top End. She has applied those skills to environmental impact assessments, Indigenous knowledge transfer on sea country, and data collection for hydrodynamic and biophysical modelling in the Northern Territory marine domain.