Innovative endeavours in spotlight
Combating internet fraud, developing software to assist the Australian Defence Force and leading the way in wind turbine energy are just some of the innovative technology-based projects and services happening in Ballarat at the largest technology park in regional Australia.
Located at Mt Helen, the University of Ballarat Technology Park is the innovative hub for many IT-focused businesses.
It supports ‘start-up’ and existing businesses that are developing clever approaches to operating in the digital age.
Ballarat will showcase the research and development activities happening at the Technology Park and invite businesses to discover how to tap into these developments when the City of Ballarat hosts the Ballarat Innovation Festival.
A key event on the city’s calendar, the festival celebrates innovative work across the region to industrial, social, environmental, educational and sustainability sectors.
The event features forums, interactive information sessions, tours and inspirational networking entertainment functions.
Technology Park director Mal Vallance said there would be a diverse range of innovative enterprises working on globally significantly projects and services.
“We are proud to be supporting technology-based businesses with their innovative endeavours – happening right here in the heart of Ballarat and having a major impact on employment and the local economy,” he said.
“Some of the enterprises are home grown, however we are now attracting individuals and enterprises from metropolitan areas because of the attractive tenancy terms, supportive culture and added appeal of living and working in a regional centre,” he said.
A key attraction for businesses is the park’s collaborative environment; a supportive, nurturing culture is evident, with almost 1500 employees across 30 enterprises located at the Park. These businesses range from small start-ups to large corporations such as IBM.
The park holds regular forums, panel discussions and conferences.
A monthly breakfast is also open to individuals and businesses and features a prominent guest speaker.
The Courier, 12 May 2009
