Bundaberg Regional Council is throwing its support behind a collaborative space that will spark innovation, drive job creation and fuel economic growth.
Council has committed a $60,000 support package of financial and in kind contributions to Community Lifestyle Support (CLS) as part of a collaboration with Central Queensland University that will develop the AgTech and Assistive Technology Incubator (AT_Incubator).
The funds and in kind assistance will support programs and initiatives that are planned to be delivered through CLS’s existing Makerspace.
This prototyping facility provides the equipment, technical expertise and staff to promote education, collaboration and the development of unique solutions.
Mayor Jack Dempsey said the AT_Incubator would help turn the ideas of Bundaberg Region innovators into reality.
“This facility, together with the planned programs and expertise, will support any Bundaberg Region resident who has a brilliant idea to develop,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“Future programs and initiatives are focused on supporting the growth of local business through advanced manufacturing and commercialisation and will provide skills and learning opportunities for the region’s students,” he said.
“In addition to containing all of the resources needed to develop an innovative concept, the AT_Incubator will provide programs and workshops for students, startups and entrepreneurs with an emphasis on the healthcare and agriculture industries.”
CLS is recruiting a community manager to assist with the delivery and coordination of programs.
Mayor Dempsey said Council had a goal for the Bundaberg Region to become an intelligent community.
“Council is committed to ensuring the Bundaberg Region is known for innovation and fosters collaboration that will grow our local industries,” he said.
“This facility can certainly launch us in the right direction. Intelligent communities are so much more than smart cities.
“Intelligent communities use the technology that comes with being a smart city to foster an economy built on creativity and innovation.
“The vision is to provide a holistic solution which will facilitate programs locally while also connecting stakeholders throughout Australia.”
To find out more about the AT_Incubator contact CLS chief executive Damien Tracey by email damien.tracey@cls.org.au.
