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GPS marker literally puts USC on the map
A small concrete structure built just outside the University of the Sunshine Coast’s Chancellery has literally put USC on the map.
The 50cm tall structure is a permanent survey mark (PSM) which provides precise location information for surveyors and map makers, and enables accurate calibration of satellite-based navigational equipment like global positioning system (GPS) devices.
It is one of five PSMs on the Sunshine Coast and one of more than 40 being built across Queensland as a Q150 project to celebrate the work of early surveyors in the State’s development.
The PSM at the University honours Cyril Guy (1887-1953), who was born in Buderim and worked for 15 years from Nambour surveying the hinterland area.
The not-for-profit Surveying and Spatial Science Institute of Queensland is installing the marks which accurately depict latitude and longitude, and provide the public with a means to check the accuracy of hand-held or in-car navigation devices.
The Institute staged a special ceremony at USC on Wednesday 2 December to celebrate the unveiling of the Sunshine Coast’s five PSMs.
USC’s Geospatial Analysis Lecturer Dr Sanjeev Srivastava said the PSM on campus would have many benefits.
“This will have good implications for the teaching and learning of geographical information systems and remote sensing at the University,” he said.
“Students in programs like Urban Planning, Environmental Science, Engineering, Education and Communication will be able to relate spatial data, collected through different geospatial techniques, with this accurately marked location.”
Dr Srivastava said the PSM also would help in accurately mapping different features of the University and for the future development of USC.
“Now, officially, the University is on the global map,” he said.
— Terry Walsh