Clean energy, new fuels, Ag tech, and medical research are among the themes in focus at this year’s Hunter Innovation Festival on 17 October 2024.
For the first time, the festival will also hold a live debate – “Should we all live to 150?” featuring experts from the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI).
Hunter Innovation Festival Chair, Alex Brennan said the debate was an exciting way to canvas different perspectives and asks us to think critically about what kind of future we want.
“This debate brings together leading minds to tackle one of the most thought provoking questions of our time. Exploring the possibilities of living to 150 offers not just a glimpse into future technologies but forces us to reimagine the way we think about health, society, and the ethics of advancements in this space.”
Integrity and ethics is a key thread for the Festival this year, with Worimi man and integrity expert, Prof Deen Sanders, providing an opening keynote on the profound role of integrity in business and innovation success.
Mr Brennan said this would be a thought provoking presentation that should not to be missed.
“Professor Sanders’ has a rare perspective, interpreting ancient indigenous systems thinking for modern day practice. He is one of the leading experts in this emerging field, and gaining global notoriety, so we’re incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to hear from him,” he said.
“We are all aware of integrity issues in the tech and innovation sector, including data breaches, cyber security threats, artificial intelligence anxiety, and misuse potential. These issues directly impact the bottom line and can mean the difference between a business or an idea flourishing or flopping,” said Mr Brennan.
“As we continue to mature as a region and perhaps look to leverage more ambitious opportunities under the Australian government’s Future Made in Australia package, Prof Sanders’ brand of thinking embedded early on will be crucial to the Hunter’s success,” said Mr Brennan.
Event details:
The Hunter Innovation Festival is the largest event connecting industry, innovators and start-ups to grow the Hunter economy. It includes:
A conference & showcase on 17th October (Newcastle City hall)
A week long roadshow commencing on 21st October
A post-festival action summit on 31st October.
For interviews contact Alex Brennan: 0424 756 233
The Hunter Innovation Festival, held 17 October 2024, will provide a stage for those working in advanced manufacturing, clean energy, technology, wellness at work, and more to make valuable connections and engage in discovery.
As a national innovation hotspot, the Hunter has a thriving startup ecosystem, fostered through initiatives such as the Hunter Innovation Festival.