Local students with big ideas and a passion for all things innovation are being encouraged to apply for the 2022 Mayor's Telstra Innovation Awards.
The annual competition encourages innovation and entrepreneurship by helping students in the Bundaberg Region unlock their problem-solving potential while taking their technology projects to the next level.
Mayor Jack Dempsey said in a world that was constantly evolving, there were endless opportunities available for MTIA participants to explore.
“In previous years we have seen teams come together to produce amazing project ideas including food waste solutions, a water membrane creation and even a carbon sequestration system!” he said.
“This program not only fosters creativity, it is also a chance for our young innovators to put their brain power together to research and develop big ideas today that will ultimately help us tomorrow.
“Our younger generation are our future leaders and the Mayor's Telstra Innovation Awards is designed to encourage them to explore their passion for innovation while gaining real-life experience that will assist them for years to come.”
Phase 1 of the 2022 event will begin on Monday, 14 February with participants asked to submit entries for their innovative idea or project.
Finalists will then be announced during Phase 2, on Thursday 31 March, before mentoring sessions begin with members of the region's business community.
The mentoring sessions will help guide each team as they finetune their innovative project entries.
2022 Mayor's Telstra Innovation Awards mentors include:
- Telstra
- Queensland University of Technology
- CQUniversity
- Regional Business HQ / The Generator
- Queensland Computers
- Ulton
- Community Lifestyle Support / MAKI SPACE
- TAFE Queensland
Scott Mullaly, Telstra Regional Engagement Manager said he was excited to see what each team would present during this year's MTIA.
“Through the past MTIA Bundaberg programs we have seen some amazing ideas generated from the very talented students in the region,” he said.
“It's been so fun and exciting to be a part of the previous awards programs and see how these ideas develop and change during the program.”
May Boisen, Telstra Regional General Manager added while the world was facing new challenges, it was programs like MTIA that were exploring the what, when, where, how and why of innovation.
“Innovative technology continues to be so critical in keeping us all connected,” she said.
“Telstra is committed to keeping Australia connected, that’s why the MTIA’s are so important to us in Queensland.
“It’s one way we can support regional areas in uncovering and fostering the talent we need to ensure a sustainable future for us all.”
Find out more about the 2022 Mayor’s Telstra Innovation Awards here.
