Boosting Australian Marine Research

Showcasing how AIMS is opening its world class Sea Simulator to scientists around the globe through the new CESIM Funded Access Program.

Client & Context

The Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) engaged Redboat to create an animation promoting its Sea Simulator, one of the world’s most advanced marine research facilities. The animation also introduced the CESIM Funded Access Program, which enables researchers from Australia and overseas to access the facility. AIMS needed a clear and engaging way to highlight the opportunities the program offers and raise awareness of SeaSim’s capabilities.

Challenge

SeaSim is highly sophisticated, and its research applications can be difficult to explain quickly. The challenge was to present a complex scientific facility in a way that was accurate, engaging, and appealing to a broad research audience.

Objectives included:

Clearly communicating what SeaSim offers and why it is globally significant.
Highlighting the opportunities available through the funded access program.
Showing realistic marine species and technology without exceeding budget constraints.
Delivering content suitable for social media, events, and partner channels.

Redboat’s Approach

Redboat worked closely with AIMS’ communications team and research staff to understand the facility’s scientific detail and ensure accuracy. A discovery and strategy process clarified key messages and shaped a concise narrative that introduced the facility and the new program. AI assisted the visual development, enabling the team to create detailed underwater species and environments within scope. The style was aligned with AIMS branding, and all scientific details were carefully reviewed.

The solution

Redboat produced a two and a half minute animation showcasing SeaSim’s capabilities, the types of research it supports, and the benefits of the CESIM Funded Access Program. High quality, AI enhanced visuals brought marine species and technologies to life while maintaining scientific credibility. The animation was delivered in landscape, square, and vertical formats to support broad digital use.

Results & Impact

The animation provided AIMS with a versatile communication tool to promote both the facility and the new access program. It clearly conveyed the value of SeaSim and helped build interest among researchers who may not have been aware of its capabilities. Early feedback suggested that the animation improved understanding and strengthened AIMS’ ability to promote the program across events, social channels, and partner networks.

Why it matters

SeaSim is a critical national asset that supports research into reef systems, climate resilience, and marine ecology. By making the facility’s purpose and opportunities easy to understand, the animation helped AIMS attract more scientists and expand global engagement.

The project: