Secret world of the Internet of Things opens up

Young people in Toowoomba have the chance to learn about creating Internet-connected devices, thanks to a financial boost from the Energex-Ergon Community Fund.

Canvas Coworking is seeking applications for a series of 12 free workshops starting next month that will show participants how to set up a Long Range Wide Area Network and build and code Internet-connected devices.

Energy Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said the $5000 allocation for the workshops was among 25 grants totalling more than $100,000 awarded to groups across Queensland.

“Coding is the new literacy, and it’s critical that young Queenslanders have these skills as part of their quality education in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM),” Dr Lynham said.

“STEM knowledge, including coding and robotics, prepares our young people for the jobs of the future, which is why the Palaszczuk Government has invested so strongly in STEM, and coding, including establishing an online hub to develop schoolteachers’ skills in coding.”

The funds will support workshops on Saturdays during school terms from August to June next year.

Canvas Coworking community manager Joy Taylor said the funding would benefit the current and next generation across a multitude of industries, from applications in agriculture, manufacturing, resource management, environment, transport and logistics, education, entertainment, health and wellness to finance.

“The participants will learn how to safely use the tools and equipment involved, such as basic hand tools like wire cutters and screwdrivers, and more sophisticated tools like soldering irons and electric drills,” Mrs Taylor said.

“They will also learn about a range of existing Internet-connected device components, such as sensors that react to temperature, pressure, moisture, light, infrared and ultrasonic.

“Other topics will include how to write and edit the code required for the sensors to function and how to identify future opportunities for the application of Internet connection devices.”

Dr Lynham said Ergon’s community fund had invested about $1 million over the past 10 years to support hard-working local not-for-profit groups such as Canvas Coworking.

For more information on the workshops visit canvascoworking.com.au or following CoderDojo Toowoomba on Facebook.

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Media inquiries:

Dr Lynham: Jan Martin 0439 341 314

Ergon: Rod Rehbein 0407 031 072