This month we provide an update on the Earless Dragon species, put AI to the test for detecting bushfires, and provide a summary of Rawlinson’s latest Cost Management quarterley update.
The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) has updated the habitat distribution model for the Victorian Giant Earless Dragon.
See link here: Victorian Grassland Earless Dragon habitat distribution model
Habitat distribution models (HDMs) collect and compare information on where a species has been recorded, and relate those data to environmental variables, such as soil, climate and topography. They can then use this data to estimate the distribution of a species’ habitat.
- Next steps:
This map and the HDMs will inform environmental
assessments that will provide clarity to the planning and
development sectors. - The VPA will facilitate advice to landowners in the PSP areas
that include potential habitat for this species. - The recovery team is leading conservation and recovery
TEsting AI's potential for early bushfire detection
See the original post:
Forest Fire Management Victoria stated that they are exploring how Artificial Intelligence (AI) could be used to help early detection of bushfires in Victoria.
Both the Victorian and Australian Government are contributing $1.5 million each to a Remote Sensing Bushfire Detection project. This project will assess the reliability and timelines of smoke-detecting AI software using ground cameras mounted on specific fire lookouts across Victoria.
The software and cameras are to be trialed in complementing and supporting the work of specially trained Fire Lookout Observers who work across 64 fire lookouts – especially during time when lookouts are not staffed after hours or due to health and safety concerns such as operating or climbing in the dark or during extreme weather conditions.
Phase 1 of the trial took place during 2023-2024 fire season. Now Phase 2 will run through the 2024-2025 fire season. Cameras are proposed to be installed on fire lookouts at Big Hill in Stawell, Mt Mittamatite, and Mt Ida.
Depending on the results from Phase 2, these trials may be extended to fire lookouts on third-party infrastructure, and a remote detection strategy may be developed which will be to help plan future investment in technology as such.
Rawlinson’s Cost Management – Quarterly Update
This report provides insights into the current state of the construction industry, focusing on cost movements, challenges and industry activity levels.
Market activity is currently steady, with dwelling approval rates increasing in all states except QLD. Approvals for private sector housing have been mixed with Victoria experiencing a decrease. The high interest rates, contractor insolvencies, industrial relations issues, lack of skilled labour and geopolitical issues have all been factors listed as contributing to market sentiment being low.
The value of total buildings approved ($M) in Victoria in 2024 = $26, 954 007. 2023 = $46, 319, 368
