Innovators celebrate investment

Published 5:00am 23 March 2022

Words by Kylie Knight

Tinkers and thinkers from across the Moreton Bay Region gathered to celebrate a massive Moreton Bay Regional Council investment in innovation on March 16.

They came together at North Lakes Sports Club for the Innovate Moreton Bay event, which doubled as their monthly social catch up.

During the event Councillor Tony Latter, Council’s Head of Industry Advancement Anne Lawrence and Moreton Bay Region Industry and Tourism General Manager, Tourism and Investment Oriana Wyrozebska explained the new $300,000+ Council-funded innovation program

The revised Innovate Moreton Bay program will support the Moreton Bay Region as it strives to become a top 10 regional knowledge and innovation hub as outlined in the Regional Economic Development Strategy (REDS).

Existing businesses and entrepreneurs will be encouraged, and bright young minds will be nurtured under the updated program.

Cr Latter thanked innovators in the room for being an inspiration for others in the region.

“Thank you for testing the boundaries and trying new things, exploring new markets and tackling the big challenges,” he said.

He explained council was there to support them under the Regional Economic Development Strategy (REDS) for the region.

“This is why we have signed a multi-year contract with MBRIT to continue the work of Innovate Moreton Bay. We have worked with MBRIT as well as many of you in the room to refresh and revitalise this program,” he said.

“Council’s commitment is built on the back of a prior commitment by the State Government under the Advancing Regional Innovation Program.”

He thanked the State Government and other collaborators for creating a vibrant and connected ecosystem.

Ms Wyrozebska said significant work had occurred during the past four years including major projects, showcases, storytelling, and engagement with youth thanks to regional innovation co-ordinator Steve Butler.

She also thanked partners and supporters including USC, RDA Moreton Bay, Samford Commons, SRJ Walker Wayland, Grace Lutheran College, SBIM, SMS Law, Coastal Protection Core and the Hills and District Chamber of Commerce.

“Without those organisations, we would not be here today. Innovate Moreton Bay wouldn’t have been as successful as it has been,” Ms Wyrozebska said.

“We’re delighted by the investment council has made in the innovation ecosystem and it’s not a small investment. You should all take strong confidence that this council is very much committed to entrepreneurship, innovation and knowledge and there’s a fantastic suite of programs and initiatives that Steve will be single-handedly delivering.”

She said Innovate Moreton Bay was excited to continue working with local innovators and seeing them grow and access new markets.