Tech-savvy high school students across the Bundaberg Region are encouraged to sign up for the Mayor’s Telstra Innovation Awards for a chance to win a share in $10,000 worth of prizes.
A great app, gaming concept, robotics or even a smarter smart phone — if you have an innovative idea for new technology, this competition is for you!
Mayor Jack Dempsey said the inaugural awards highlighted creative uses of technology or the next technological idea — from a new style of digital camera to a revolutionary concept for transport, health, recreation or more.
“The possibilities are truly endless,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“The Mayor’s Telstra Innovation Awards provide the springboard for young minds to take ideas – shake them and shape them and to provide concepts that are fresh, innovative and marketable.
“The competition will comprise three phases and provide an opportunity for teams to receive mentoring to support their entrepreneurial thinking.”
Applications are now open and schools are being urged to draw together their innovators from Years 9 to 12 and enter teams of three into the awards.
“As a region we strive for Smart City status. Development of that Smart City ideology is being carried in the fertile minds of our young scholars and entrepreneurs,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“We need innovators. We need thinkers. We need people with a desire to accept challenges.”
“I urge all eligible local schools to enter multiple teams and encourage our innovators of tomorrow to explore their own creativity and the value and satisfaction of developing creative ideas through a team strategy.”
Phase 1 of the competition kicks off on February 11, allowing teams six weeks to develop an original technological idea.
From there, teams will be allowed further time to develop their strategies during phase 2 before the final pitch and presentation night on 15 to 19 of July.
Mayor Dempsey said the competition was the perfect opportunity for students to explore the boundless opportunities of the technological world.
“It’s great to launch this innovative competition, with the support of Telstra, that will no doubt unleash some amazing and creative projects from the young minds of the Bundaberg Region,” he said.
Telstra sponsors competition
Telstra Regional General Manager May Boisen said Telstra was proud to be working with the Mayor and Bundaberg Regional Council to bring these awards to life.
“The Bundaberg region is a great region that’s fostering talent and really looking to show young people new ways of thinking through technology and innovation,” Ms Boisen said.
“The awards aren’t all about winning.
“They offer a wonderful opportunity for students to network, explore and develop their passion for entrepreneurship and gain real life experience, skills and knowledge to prepare them for the next step in their journey.
“We are excited to see what ideas the students of the Bundaberg Region have in store for us”
Project partners also include Bundaberg Brewed Drink, AT_Makerspace, TAFE Qld and CQ University and Ulton.
Visit here for more information and an entry form.
