A push is underway to strengthen the information and communication technologies (ICT) sector in the State’s North-West.
The University of Tasmania, in partnership with the Australian Computer Society (ACS) and Cradle Coast Authority (CCA), presented a forum on Thursday, 22 November exploring the role of ICT in shaping the region’s future.
The event formed part of Tasmania’s inaugural Techstars Startup Week, a movement building momentum and opportunity around entrepreneurship.
James Riggall from the University’s Community, Partnerships and Regional Development portfolio, and Managing Director of Bitlink, was the guest speaker.
His presentation shared insight into projects the Cradle Coast campus has been leading in the North-West to support the development of ICT literacy.
“The University recognises the increasing importance of ICT, and the need to equip future generations with entrepreneurial skills that ready them for jobs of the future,” Mr Riggall said.
“This year’s North-West projects have included a SumoBot competition, exposing participants to robotics; Hackerspace workshops that immersed students in advanced manufacturing, electronics, the Internet of Things (IoT) and computer programming concepts, and also the Big Idea Challenge which empowered entrants to embrace entrepreneurship in ICT.
“We are also working with Burnie Primary School on a project that is teaching students how to program a ‘Farmbot’ – a machine that combines traditional agricultural practices with modern technology.”
Dr Tristan Richards, ACS Tasmanian State Manager, said the event was the second in a series of four being delivered in North-West Tasmania.
“These are about bringing together the region’s ICT professionals working across all sectors with a view to connecting and building relationships and developing an understanding of the collective capability needs that will support regional development,” Dr Richards said.
Daryl Connelly, Regional Economic Development Manager at the CCA, highlighted the increasing importance of ICT in the State.
“A strong ICT sector is a crucial enabler to regional economies. These events are about strengthening the sector as well as connecting ICT firms with the broader business community”.
The North-West Tasmania ICT Networking event was held at Makers’ Workshop in Burnie and attracted interest from ICT professionals, graduates, start-ups, entrepreneurs, educators and members of the community.
Pictured from left; Event partners Dr Tristan Richards, Australian Computer Society, Daryl Connelly, Cradle Coast Authority, James Riggall, Bitlink and University of Tasmania, and Lyndal Bond, University of Tasmania Strategic Projects Officer.
