Smart Precinct NQ

Get your tickets to the ‘Navigating Risk and Opportunity in the Regions: Public, Private, and NFP Governance’ event!

Hear from leading risk and governance experts working across public, private, and NFP sectors as they tackle the hottest topics in governance and risk management.

Hosted by Dave Schenk, QLD State Manager, Governance Institute of Australia who will be joined by Michael Brennen, Director, SV Partners, John Weaver, Risk Management Partner Deloitte’s, Sean Johnson Managing Director and Risk & Governance Advisor, Lakefield Drive and Christine Mushaya, Risk & Governance Advisor from Lakefield Drive.

What to expect?
Gain actionable insights into governance and risk management from experts who understand the unique challenges faced by regional organisations as they help you discover new ways to build resilience and improve governance practices.

📅 Date: Thursday, 24 October , 2024
⏰ Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm AEST (Networking from 5 pm)
📍 Location: Smart Precinct NQ , Townsville North Queensland.
🎟️ Don’t Miss Out! Secure your tickets! https://hubs.li/Q02QT6h-0

One week to go!!! We are getting ready to welcome two wonderful speakers who will share their unique and powerful stories.

It's time to get your tickets! 🎫

🌟Stephanie Bofinger, Founder of Fempro Armour, will take us through her journey of revolutionising protective gear for women. After crossing the Simpson Desert during a motocross Dolly’s Dream fundraiser, the problem was clear. The female body just doesn’t fit into a male designed garments and a splash of pink, doesn’t mean “unisex”. After extensive research and knock backs from over 15 global manufactures, Stephanie was determined to bring her vision to life.

🌟Candy MacLaughlin, General Manager of Skybury Farms, will share her journey of driving growth and diversification in agriculture and agri-tourism, leading one of the most progressive farming operations in North Queensland. Proudly family owned, Skybury Farms produces over three million pieces of fruit annually and supplies on average of 50% of all the Papaya domestically.

🌟We will also introduce you to our amazing cohort 1 of our new Accelerating Female Founders Program and enjoy a night of networking, new connections and inspiration.

📅 Date: Tuesday 1st of October 2024
📍 Location: Smart Precinct NQ
🎟️ Don’t miss out – grab your tickets now: https://hubs.ly/Q02QSvc30

Thanks to the generous support of Advance Queensland

🚀 Exclusive opportunity for manufacturing leaders!

Join the Leadership Excellence Series by Manufacturing Skills Queensland and Australian Industry Group (Ai Group). Enhance your leadership style and boost team performance.

Topics covered:
• Leadership vs. management
• Mindful leadership
• Building positive organisations
• Handling adversity.

This course is presented by David Tiller and is ideal for small to medium-sized business owners and managers.

It’s happening in Townsville on
Wednesday 16 October, 9 am – 4.30 pm

👉 Learn more and register: https://lnkd.in/g24fABYG

*Free for eligible attendees. Non-eligible participants are welcome to access the course at a cost. Places are limited.

Congratulations to Carked It for being awarded the prestigious Green Tick for design excellence in the Social Impact category at the 2024 Good Design Awards. 

This accolade celebrates the game’s success in sparking meaningful conversations about death, life, and end-of-life planning in an accessible, humorous, and engaging way.

The 2024 Australian Good Design Awards are the pinnacle of design excellence in Sydney.
 
This year’s theme, “The Design Effect” underscored the crucial role design plays in shaping better products, services, spaces, and experiences while driving the transition to a more sustainable, less carbon-intensive future.

Carked It was recognised for its creative approach to facilitating discussions about life and death. This card game combines humor with sensitivity, providing a unique way to initiate conversations on often-taboo topics. The design’s ability to balance light-heartedness with meaningful dialogue makes it a valuable tool for breaking down barriers and encouraging open discussions about life’s end. Well done, Leone and all the team involved.

$5 million is now available in round 4 of the Manufacturing Hubs Grant Program.

Grants ranging from $10,000 to $500,000 are available to help boost productivity and innovation in our regional Queensland manufacturing sector. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to take your business to the next level.

Find out more about the Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water’s Manufacturing Hubs Grant Program and check out the criteria on page 3 https://lnkd.in/gNb_Yeav

We're shining the spotlight on the remarkable journeys of TWO regional business leaders!

Hear how they have both disrupted their sectors and made their mark with their incredible products.

Event Highlights:

- Hear from Trailblazers: Meet Candy MacLaughlin, General Manager of Skybury Farms, and Stephanie Bofinger, CEO and founder of Fempro Armour, as they share their powerful stories of growth, resilience, and innovation.

- Launch of the Accelerating NQ Female Founders Program: Connect with the first cohort of 30 dynamic female founders and get a firsthand look at the next wave of North Queensland’s business leaders.

- Network & Collaborate: Engage with a vibrant mix of entrepreneurs, SMEs, government organisations, and innovators to explore new opportunities and forge valuable connections.

📅 Tuesday 1st October, 5.30-7.30pm
📍 143 Walker Street, Smart Precinct NQ
🎟️ https://hubs.li/Q02QnHqh0

Don’t miss this opportunity to be inspired, network, and help shape the future of innovation in our region. RSVP now and join to celebrate innovation and transformation in North Queensland!

👏👏👏

😍 Townsville-based swimwear brand, won silver at the Clean + Conscious Awards 2024 for its commitment to ethical, sustainable fashion and local manufacturing in Australia. 📌 STORY 👉 https://bit.ly/3MHYTmm

Huge thanks to Graham Ross and Torsten Witt from Blocktexx for visiting Smart Precinct NQ and sharing their incredible journey!

Graham, co-founder of BlockTexx, a clean tech company transforming textile recovery, gave us a unique look into his founder story. BlockTexx, winner of AuManufacturing’s Top 10 Gold Award for Australia’s most innovative manufacturers, is tackling textile waste by recovering valuable materials like polyester and cellulose, keeping them out of landfills.

Our local innovators had an exclusive opportunity to learn, engage, and ask questions during a private session. We also hosted an “On the Couch” session, where Graham took a deep dive into BlockTexx’s cutting-edge tech, the power of collaboration, and their innovative approach to scaling.

Key highlights included:
- Graham’s founder journey
- Overcoming challenges
- Pioneering solutions for a circular economy
- Breaking barriers with innovation

A big shoutout to Jason Lange from Atlas Soils for hosting! 🙌

Calling All Female Founders in Regional Queensland!

Do you have an innovative idea or business? Our program is designed to help you turn your vision into a thriving reality. With hands-on support and powerful networking opportunities, we provide the tools you need to succeed.

Who Can Apply?
Female-founded businesses that are at least 50% female-owned or led.

Last Chance!
Apply now to secure one of 30 fully subsidised spots, valued $4,995 (ex GST) – closing soon!

Take the Leap!
Find out more and apply today: https://spnq.org/accelerating-nq-female-founders/

Proudly supported by the initiative.

Are you a female founder with an innovative idea or business you're ready to scale?

Our program is here to help you turn that idea into a thriving business. From hands-on support to powerful networking opportunities, we’ve got the tools you need to succeed.

30 fully subsidised places available thanks to the Advance Queensland initiative!! —let’s turn your vision into reality! 🚀

Apply now - https://hubs.li/Q02MtZ-Z0

🌟🌟CONGRATULATIONS🌟🌟

Safety Culture has been valued at $2.5 billion after a $165 million funding round….yes you read that correctly!!!

A workplace operations platform, SafetyCulture counts 85,000 businesses and close to 2 million users around the world and it started in our wonderful city of Townsville!!!

The platform has seen record growth in sign-ups, and its average customer has doubled in size over the last two years. The company has also added 100 new roles in the last 6 months, and counts more than 800 employees across its six offices including Townsville.

Massive congratulations to Luke Anear and all the SafetyCulture Team!

“We’ve built the world’s largest repository of workplace data, containing over 5 petabytes of data and billions of images,” Founder Luke Anear said. “AI is the way we can make sense of that information, and if we can harness it properly, we’ll effectively be able to give frontline teams superpowers that will completely change the way they work.”

SafetyCulture is on track towards its goal of 100 million users by 2032.

Takes us back to last years screening when Luke returned to Townsville and partnered with Smart Precint to shared the first public premier of Founder, The Luke Anear Story. You can check it out on Prime ✨

Read the above and more in the feature story on FORBES Australia.

Image 1 (L-R) Luke Anear, CEO & founder and Joh Blake, COO/CFO.

Our cities first 🦄

🎟️ Innovating for a Circular Economy with BlockTexx!

Joining us for an exclusive ‘On the Couch’ session, co-Founder of BlockTexx - textile recovery facility, Graham Ross, an entrepreneur and environmentalist with a world-leading focus on textile sustainability and innovation!

- Hear Graham’s journey as co-founder
- Learn the challenges they’ve faced
- Decisions that shaped their path
- How they innovate
- The power of collaborations
- How to scale, break through barriers and solve problems
- Ask your questions!

Check out this video from Tourism Australia 'Australia Innovates' series https://hubs.li/Q02P3-vL0

📅 Wednesday 11th September
🕠 5.30pm - 7.30pm
📍 143 Walker Street (Smart Precinct NQ)
🎟️ https://hubs.li/Q02P3_lQ0

Be a part of the conversation that’s shaping the future!

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🌟 Join Our Team as a Business Growth Advisor! 🌟

Smart Precinct NQ is looking for a dynamic Business Growth Advisor to join our team part-time and make a real impact on North Queensland's entrepreneurial ecosystem.

About the Role:
As a key player in the Accelerating NQ Female Founders Program, you'll mentor and guide female-led businesses, helping turn innovative ideas into successful ventures. With flexible hours and the opportunity to work closely with industry leaders, this is your chance to shape the future of startups in our region.

What You'll Do:
- Mentor and support program participants
- Co-deliver sessions and advisory boards
- Build strong relationships within the entrepreneurial community
- Drive the growth of female-led businesses

Why You'll Love It:
- Professional development opportunities
- Flexible working hours
- Networking with industry leaders
- Make a meaningful impact on female entrepreneurship in North Queensland

Ready to inspire and be inspired? Apply now to join us on this exciting journey! https://hubs.li/Q02NyqfS0

🛋️ Exclusive On The Couch Session: Innovating for a Circular Economy with BlockTexx!

Join us for our next 'On the Couch' session with Graham Ross, Co-Founder of BlockTexx - textile recovery facility the clean tech company revolutionising textile waste into sustainable products in Australia.

📅 Wednesday 11th September
🕠 5.30pm - 7.30pm
📍 143 Walker Street (Smart Precinct NQ)
🎟️ https://bit.ly/4gbfLQ4

🚀 What’s In It for You?

- Insightful Q&A: Engage with Graham Ross and Torsten Witt, Product Development Manager at BlockTexx, as they share their game-changing journey.
- Award-Winning Innovation: Learn how BlockTexx became an industry leader in sustainability, earning top honors in Australia.
- Actionable Insights: Discover how to integrate circular economy principles into your ventures and drive impactful change.
- Network and Connect: Make new connections within our incredible ecosystem of SME's, entrepreneurs, researchers and organisations.

Be a part of the conversation that’s shaping the future!

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Are you a Female Founder in North Queensland ready to take your innovative idea to the next level?

Our Accelerating NQ Female Founders Program is packed with comprehensive support designed to empower female entrepreneurs across NQ. Here’s a glimpse of what’s included:

✨ Expert Mentoring & Tailored Support: Gain hands-on guidance from experienced advisors
✨ Inclusive Community: Connect with a powerful network of like-minded women who will inspire and support you
✨ 9-Month Comprehensive Program: Enjoy structured support through mentoring, advisory board sessions, and industry networking events
✨ Flexible, Accessible Learning: Join us in person or online, with sessions recorded for convenience
✨ Ongoing Support: Our commitment doesn’t end with the program—we’re here to continue supporting your business growth

Apply for a fully funded place by 13th September 2024, thanks to the support of the Advance Queensland initiative! https://bit.ly/3Z4vZ7q

🎂 Wishing our incredible Operations Manager, Caitlin a spectacular Birthday! 🎉

Celebrating not just your special day (week!) but also the incredible impact you bring to our team and organisation. You go above and beyond for us and our community and we're so grateful for you!

Happy Birthday Caitlin! 🎂🤩

Are you ready to accelerate?!! 🚀

Our Accelerating NQ Female Founders Program is designed for female entrepreneurs in North Queensland who are ready to take their innovative ideas to the next level. Here’s who should apply:

- Female Founders leading a business with a focus on innovation.

- Entrepreneurs with a vision to scale beyond North Queensland.

- Those seeking hands-on support from experienced advisors.

- Women looking to connect with a powerful network of like-minded peers.

- First Nations Female Founders and women in regional or remote areas seeking tailored resources.

If you’re committed to growth and ready to innovate, this program is for you! 🚀

Apply now and start your journey to success.

http://spnq.org/accelerating-nq-female-founders

Proudly supported by the Advance Queensland initiative

Townsville City Council Queensland

We’ll be back in the office Friday!

Email [email protected] or head to our website spnq.org

Want to know how your business can do business with Council?

Learn:
▪️ How the quoting and tendering process at Council works
▪️ The requirements of being a supplier
▪️ Upcoming opportunities
▪️ Health & Safety Requirements (optional)

You can meet the team in person, over the phone or virtually!

Meetings are now available every Tuesday & Thursday (until 3 October 2024) with the TCC procurement team.

Register now: https://bit.ly/3LEZgxm

Doing Business with Council Sessions - 2024 Townsville City Council invites Townsville businesses to meet with our procurement and/or health & safety professionals.

Have you ever wondered how to get your school leaver into a job of the future?

Happening this Wednesday... Come along to Simulation in the Tropics at the to learn more about opportunities in Simulation and interactive technologies.

Hear from industry leaders about career opportunities, and how Townsville-based high school students and Defence veterans can apply for fully funded scholarships to undertake the nationally recognised Certificate III in Simulation and Interactive Technologies.

At least 30 fully funded scholarships are available under a pilot program proudly supported by the Queensland Government’s Advance Queensland initiative.

📆 Wednesday 28 August 2024
🕠 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM
📍143 Walker Street (SPNQ)
🎟️ Register: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1245045

Cubic Defence Australia & New Zealand Advance Queensland

Keen to collab with Boeing on an innovative idea around autonomous vehicles? 😮🙋‍♀️

Calling all Queensland-based innovators 📢 Here is an exciting challenge around data visualisation!

This challenge will see your business collaborating with Phantom Works Global, a division that reports into The Boeing Company (Defence, Space and Security division) to develop a visual display to assist with the control of autonomous vehicles.

Autonomy is beginning to play a large role in the civilian and defence arenas across space, air, land, and sea. The use of autonomous vehicles is increasing with many benefits including the ability to have people managing multiple vehicles at the same time.

The goal of this challenge?

➕ Create a visualisation tool to display multiple autonomous vehicle state and sensor data. This visualisation capability will run on a base station and provide a person with appropriate situational awareness to enable quick decisions over the management of multiple vehicles.

➕ Reduce the people power and enable better experience in managing autonomous vehicles (allowing each person to operate more vehicles while still maintaining situational awareness).

The successful solution? 👉 Co-create a display environment that has the ability to ingest autonomous vehicle status and senor data and present them visually that assist quick decisions by an operator!

Funding of up to $100,000 from Boeing and Advance Queensland will help you to co-create a solution Boeing can use!

To find out more about this incredible opportunity, eligibility criteria and how to apply 👉 https://lnkd.in/gcdpB8_Q

Applications close 23rd August