Our project is called Aqualert; consisting of an app to assist lifeguards and a tracker band for beach-goers. It focuses on helping reduce the cases of drownings at beaches. The app helps lifeguards to locate each beach-goer with the tracker and rescue those in danger more efficiently.

Once our problem was identified, a variety of ideas were brainstormed. From them, we decided to draft the Aqualert app and tracker, which we had modified and developed our first prototype of the app, created on Jotform.com and modelled the tracker design on Canva. We tested this prototype on other students and community members. We also contacted Reina Song from Suncorp who advised us to make changes on the features and widgets of the app and tracker for greater convenience for the lifeguards. With the feedback from users, we inserted a simpler background to the “beach overview” and added vital signs to the “alert” page.

The aim of our project was to build a fully working prototype app to show to businesses and try to get funding to increase the scale of the project. In terms of upscaling we are limited by coding expertise and funds, but we are learning everyday and continuing to grow.

This project will be an essential in saving lives. Constant tech-supported supervision will reassure beach-goers and allows them to enjoy their recreation time with alleviated concern. We’ve realised the severity of drowning on Australia’s shores and learnt that it must be prevented with new innovative methods.