7. Noise

This theme is looking at both the baseline and future underwater ‘soundscapes’ of Cockburn Sound in order to understand, and ultimately manage, the potential effects of underwater noise. The current soundscape will be recorded, containing the sounds of marine fauna (dolphins, fishes, and crustaceans), weather (wind and precipitation), and humans (boats and ships).

Sound propagation, in particular from the port and ships, will be measured and modelled and the susceptibility of key species to the range of frequencies emitted by vessels and port operations investigated. The findings will be used to develop mitigation methods for the potential effects of underwater noise on marine species.