Advance Queensland Summit event comes to Cairns

Innovators and entrepreneurs in Cairns will hear the thoughts of global innovation experts and tips from internationally renowned speakers with sessions from the Advance Queensland Innovation and Investment Summit to be livestreamed this week.

Cairns will host one of three regional Summit events, where local startups, innovators and entrepreneurs can come together to hear from local and international thought leaders thanks to TelePresence Partner Cisco while also having an opportunity to network.

Minister for Innovation, Science and the Digital Economy Leeanne Enoch said it was important to support Queenslanders in all corners of the state who were turning new ideas and technologies into the jobs and industries of the future.

“Queensland has a strong innovation and entrepreneurial culture,” Ms Enoch said.

“This summit provides a fantastic platform for some of the world’s visionaries in technology and innovation – including some of Queensland’s best and brightest minds – to share their ideas and advice and we’re delighted to be able to provide access to this knowledge to anyone in Queensland who wants to be involved.

“The summit has been a sell-out success with an overwhelming response from across the state, with people eager to showcase ideas, collaborate and network with entrepreneurs.”

Member for Barron River Craig Crawford said the regional event was the perfect opportunity for local entrepreneurs and startups to make the connections which could lead to the next big business idea to be developed in Far North Queensland.

“The Palaszczuk Government is committed to ensuring regional communities are an important part of the shift towards the knowledge economy of the future,” Mr Crawford said.

“I’m delighted to have been able to work with Minister Enoch to bring this regional event to Cairns.

“The summit sessions will explore what innovation means for Queensland business and how it is shaping markets here and around the world and Far North Queensland has a critical role to play in these new economies.”

Keynote speakers include Steve Wozniak, the co-founder of Apple Computer Inc, who will be presenting on the power of disruptive innovation. There is also a panel session with innovators in agricultural technologies who will showcase their expertise in drone application, data management, biotechnology, and the future of farming enterprises.

For those unable to attend the event, select sessions will also be livestreamed on the Advance Queensland website.

Cairns: Room 3.42, Thursday 28 April, 9:30-12:00, 16:30-17:30
Room 3.27, Friday 29 April, 10:00-17:00
Central Queensland University Australia, Cairns Square, corner Abbot and Shields streets, Cairns
Open event, RSVP to cairns@dsd.qld.gov.au

Media contact: Daniel Lato 0438 830 201