Innovating green growth in Gladstone
A new generation of innovators have tested and grown their ideas for a greener future, in a bid to boost Central Queensland’s innovative economy.
The Enhancing renewable innovation in CQ initiative hosted a three-day innovation incubator at CQUniversity Gladstone, with teams developing ideas for more sustainable energy generation and use.
It’s part of the three-year Gladstone Regional Enablers Program, delivered by CQU and funded by the Queensland Government.
Doing business better
Across 1-3 September, the incubator was led by Impact10x from the James Cook University (JCU) Ideas Lab, and attracted participants from across Queensland.
Six teams participated, including local regional businesses, JCU Brisbane students, and secondary students from Trinity College in Gladstone.
Award-winning entrepreneur and educator Nicole Amey travelled from Bundaberg to participate, and said the initiative was a game-changer.
"As an educator and community builder with a deep interest in regional youth innovation, the program delivered exactly what early-stage thinking needs – structured skills development across design thinking, the business model canvas, pitching frameworks, and expert zoom sessions that pushed every concept further than where it started from," she said.
Ms Amey highlighted the impact of CQU education innovator Associate Professor Linda Pfeiffer, who leads the Regional Enablers Program and CQU's STEM Central innovation hub, along with Queensland Government Regional Engagement Lead for Innovation, Sean Cranny.
"Their energy and commitment to regional innovation is genuinely inspiring," she said.
Innovation to inspiration
The incubator culminated with an Ideas to Impact networking and pitch event on Thursday 3 September, hosted by CQU's Regional Enabler Program team.
Guest speakers included JCU Innovation and Industry Lead Dr Samantha Horseman, AusIndustry Central Queensland Regional Manager Jen McGuire, and State Member for Rockhampton Donna Kirkland MP.
The gathering also heard from students representing Trinity College, who formed the Carbon Cut team to win the recent BOP Industries schools challenge.
The schools challenge series was also presented by the Regional Enablers Program.
Mr Cranny said the participants showcased plenty of talent, creativity and ambition.
"Gladstone is one of the state’s major energy and industry hubs and it was inspiring to see local students from Trinity College Gladstone presenting new energy solutions, and entrepreneurs exploring new opportunities, researchers sharing their knowledge and industry, and education and government coming together to support innovation at CQUniversity," he said.
"Queensland’s Science and Innovation Strategy focuses on activating partnerships and places that create new opportunities to grow industries, boost productivity and strengthen our economy.
"The Regional Enablers Program helps connect these opportunities with local problem solvers, young talent and emerging founders so new ideas can grow into capability, jobs and enterprise across the region."
Based in Gladstone, Assoc Prof Pfeiffer said the program was helping shape a green new future.
“The Regional Enablers Program truly enhances innovation in regional Queensland, and increases collaboration, particularly in renewables," she said.
Assoc Prof Pfeiffer is also CQU's Deputy Dean Research for the School of Education and the Arts.
Learn more about the Gladstone Regional Enablers Program.
