Opinion Piece in IHR, Issue 21

In the vast and diverse marine landscapes of Australia, the importance of accurate and up-to-date hydrographic data is becoming increasingly clear. As the country gears up for a significant contracted hydrographic survey program in 2020 (subject to final government approval), it looks to the experiences of other nations for guidance.

Lessons learned from hydrographic offices in countries like New Zealand, the United States, and the United Kingdom, who have undertaken major contracted survey programs, offer valuable insights for Australia. These lessons highlight the importance of adopting rigorous data quality assessment and classification standards, using modern technology, establishing clear survey specifications, providing continuous skills training, integrating hydrographic data with environmental modeling, and ensuring transparent communication and collaboration.

One such system that Australia might consider adopting is the Zones of Confidence (ZOC/CATZOC) system used by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This system categorizes survey data quality by parameters like survey date, position accuracy, and depth measurement quality, enabling informed decision-making about data reliability and navigational safety.

The hydrographic industry is also evolving rapidly, with more use of autonomous vehicles and increased Research & Development into machine learning and artificial intelligence software solutions.

Meanwhile, the Philippines are conducting research on the impact of cyclones on storm surges and water level heights. This research, while not directly related to Australia's hydrographic survey program, underscores the importance of understanding the ocean's role in our climate.

In Australia, two cyclones, Veronica and Trevor, are currently affecting the top end, causing evacuations, shutdowns, and ships to move to safer waters. The ocean's role in these weather events serves as a stark reminder of the potential havoc and destruction that storm surges can cause in an archipelagic island nation like the Philippines.

The new IHR Edition, a collection of papers for readers' enjoyment, has been brought to you by Editor Ian W. Halls. This publication, a privilege for Halls in his role, contains a discussion about contract hydrographic surveys from Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) and other insightful articles. Halls expresses his gratitude to the authors, reviewers, and IHO staff for their contributions.

The IHR, a resource of learned articles about hydrography, was first published in March 1923. As Australia embarks on its own hydrographic journey, the lessons from the past and the insights from the present will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping its future.

The science of nautical charting, as integral to hydrographic survey, is a field that regularly benefits from advancements in technology, such as data-and-cloud-computing and machine learning.
In the realm of health-and-wellness, understanding the effects of climate-change on weather patterns, like cyclones, is critical for preparing and protecting coastal communities, as demonstrated by recent events in Australia.
The Philippines are actively conducting research in environmental-science, specifically investigating the impact of cyclones on storm surges and water level heights, which offers valuable insights for nations like Australia.
As Australia prepares for a significant contracted hydrographic survey program, it's essential to adopt modern hydrographic data management practices, such as the Zones of Confidence (ZOC/CATZOC) system, to ensure data quality and safety.
Mental-health is an often overlooked aspect of the hydrographic industry, with the demanding work and high stakes requiring continuous skills training and fostering a supportive work community.
In addition to hydrography, the IHR Edition also offers articles on travel, landscape, sports, and sports-betting, showcasing the diverse interests of its authors and readers, and providing a broader perspective on the interconnectedness of our world.