University In The Brewery

Tsunamis and Coastal Real Estate

Nov 26, 2003

Associate Professor Ted Bryant and ABC Illawarra's Peter Riley check out the waves at Wollongong Beach following their discussion about Tsunamis.

A large crowd of people from the local community gathered to hear Associate Professor Ted Bryant speak about Tsunamis.

Topic Information

Tsunamis (sometimes incorrectly termed tidal waves) have been wreaking havoc around the Pacific Rim for thousands of years, yet they remain a confusing phenomenon. There is some scientific and historical evidence to suggest that the Illawarra region has experienced the impact of large tsunamis in the past and is likely to at some time in the future. Associate Professor Ted Bryant, the Associate Dean of the Faculty of Science at the University of Wollongong, will explain:

• what are tsunamis
• what causes tsunamis
• what evidence exists for large tsunamis having occurred in the Illawarra (including a possible 130m wave off Jervis Bay)
• indigenous and historical accounts or legends of tsunamis (including how Chinese treasure ships may have been wrecked along our coast by the last big event).
• how other cities and countries plan for tsunami emergencies
• and how coast-loving Australians are in line for a front row view of a tsunami anytime.

Special Guest Peter Riley, popular host of the Breakfast Show on ABC Illawarra, will compere this event and invite audience participation/input.

Last reviewed: 16 February, 2007