Novel aquatic habitats deployed at Lorimer Beach
Photos by Shane Hunt, Haptera Design.
An innovative aquatic habitat trial has been deployed at Lorimer Beach. Supported by a grant from FB IDEAs, the Novel Aquatic Habitats project aims to explore the role of design in providing artificial habitats across intertidal areas in Fishermans Bend.
The project was designed and fabricated by Haptera Design, an independent design studio run by Shane Hunt. Inkind contributions from partners have also been in vital to bring this project to life - with Port of Melbourne provided access to the site and RMIT University supporting the project through access to workshop space and supporting the associated research and ongoing monitoring of the project through Shane’s PhD.
The habitats were designed to respond to local conditions and target bivalve (oyster and mussel) communities to support habitat function. Sitting in the intertidal zone, the habitats will interact with tidal variances undergoing periods of submersion and exposure adding habitat complexity and the potential for broader interaction with species found across the site.
The habitats were fabricated using generative CAD technologies and has included a range of digital and manual fabrication approaches. Each habitat was constructed using a modular approach to allow for easy deployment and retrieval without the need for heavy lifting equipment, safety and cost efficiency.
The site was selectively chosen to maximise exposure to the public and engage the community in a discussion around the role of design across highly urbanised aquatic ecosystems.
As you wander the Bay Trail or jump on and off the Punt - have a look across the waterline to see the habitats in action.
Stay tuned for further updates.
