# Victorian Wave Buoy Network

Discover Victoria's wave patterns with the VCMP's Spotter buoys. Real-time ocean data for surfers and climate monitoring.

Aug 30, 2020

In August 2020, as part of the [Victorian Coastal Monitoring Program (VCMP)](https://www.marineandcoasts.vic.gov.au/marine-and-coastal-knowledge/victorian-coastal-monitoring-program), the government of Victoria deployed six Spotter buoys along its coastline, marking one of the most significant investments in continuous ocean observation within the state.

This deployment of wave buoys marks the largest single investment aimed at gathering comprehensive wave data, empowering real-time monitoring and enhanced wave climate modeling while integrating shoreline dynamics. Leveraging this network's data, the program aims to assess climate change impact on Victoria's wave patterns and assist surfers in locating optimal surf breaks, emphasizing the broader utility and significance of this initiative.

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## Additional Information  
### Customer Stories  
October 25, 2021  
Spotter buoys deployed in South Australia to provide real time wave data for the Adelaide Metropolitan Coast

### White Papers  
September 19, 2023  
White paper: Why deploying a network of marine sensing systems is the key to collecting ocean data at scale

### Ocean Science Reports  
- May 17, 2024: Spotter Platform outperforms peer wave buoys in independent field comparison  
- September 5, 2023: Airdropped Spotters make direct observations of Hurricane Idalia to improve existing forecasts  
- May 3, 2023: How accounting for instability in the lower atmosphere improves forecasts of extreme waves