Award-winning entrepreneur, engineer and inspirational speaker Felicity Furey has been announced as the keynote speaker for the next Hinkler Innovation Series event.
Hosted by Bundaberg Regional Council, this year’s event will be held at the Multiplex Sport and Convention Centre on Thursday, 5 December.
Mayor Jack Dempsey said the Hinkler Innovation Series revealed the region’s economic scorecard and showcased local and world-renowned speakers allowing residents to hear their views and ideas first-hand.
“The aim of the series is to bring well-known thought-leaders from across Australia and the globe to drive discussion on matters relevant to the Bundaberg Region,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“We’ll take a look at the region’s economic outlook, providing an overview of the last 12 months and looking to the future.
“These elements combine to make this the most important event of the year on the Bundaberg Region business calendar.”
As keynote speaker, Felicity will share her approach to innovative practices, having founded two social enterprises that continue to shift the perception of engineering with thousands of young people and companies.
“Innovation starts within, with an innovative mindset,” Felicity said.
“But it lives through people and communities.”
In 2016, Felicity was named a Financial Review BOSS Magazine Young Executive of the Year and was also recognised as one of Australia’s ‘100 Women of Influence’ at just 26 years old.
The event will feature a panel discussion of local leaders that will be led by Felicity on the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly in regional Australia.
Felicity said she was looking forward to attending the event in December.
“As a proud Queenslander, I am excited to be in Bundaberg for the Hinkler Innovation Series to start a creative conversation about change and innovation,” she said.
“Events like this provide the opportunity for fresh thinking, new perspectives and connected community — essential ingredients for innovation.”
The upcoming event will be delivered in partnership with Bundaberg Regional Council, The Generator, Bundaberg Business Enterprise Centre and Bundaberg and District Chamber of Commerce.
Prestigious award presented at Hinkler Innovation Series
The prestigious 2019 Hinkler Innovation Award will also be awarded at the Hinkler Innovation Series event.
Presented in collaboration with Bundaberg Regional Council, Bundaberg Businesses Enterprise Centre and The Generator, the award honours the spirit and legacy of Bert Hinkler.
Bundaberg Business Enterprise Centre manager Marcus McCormick said the award recognised and celebrated Australians with a pioneering spirit who had contributed locally and globally to innovation and entrepreneurship.
“The award commemorates the transformation from local innovation to global expansion with the intent to stimulate further innovative accomplishments within a local community,” Marcus said.
It will be the second Hinkler Innovation Award to be presented.
Last year’s recipient Eleanor Carey was recognised for her efforts when her Pacific Terrific team made a world record breaking 4000km journey across the Pacific Ocean from California to Hawaii.
Held at the Multiplex Sports and Convention Centre, the venue will open at 6.30am for an official start time of 6.45 am. Breakfast is included in the ticket price.
- Read more: Leaders in innovation visit for Hinkler Innovation Series
