New ag tech on show
Forum showcases the future
WATER produced from thin air and freeze-dried foods were just some of the products attendees at the 400M Ag and Food Innovation Forum got to experience yesterday.
The forum, hosted by Food Leaders Australia and held in the Empire Theatre precinct, focused on new innovations that are growing agribusiness in the Toowoomba region, the global trends in agriculture and how local businesses can capitalise on these global trends to drive sustainable local economic development.
The keynote speaker was Ian Mason, co-creator of Virgin StartUp, Sir Richard Branson’s not-for-profit company for entrepreneurs.
“It was great to meet so many attendees and learn more about their work and their challenges and to share my experiences of working in Ag and Food in the UK,” Mr Mason said.
“(That was) how supporting startups can catalyse the growth and adoption of innovation for the benefit of the whole sector.”
Food Leader’s Australia General Manager Bruce McConnel said this year’s forum, held on National Agriculture Day, enabled attendees to sample new food technologies provided by innovative Australian businesses.
“We have worked with innovators from around the world to bring the best new technology relevant for our regions and industry including bringing new innovation from other sectors that could have significant impacts in regional communities and agricultural industries,” Mr McConnel said.
The forum included 10 presentations from innovators ranging from startups to commercialised innovations and leading global technology new to Australia.
There was also the chance to experience the new technologies live on the day and not just hear about them from speakers on a stage.
A range of topics were explored including the new digital economy in Toowoomba, innovation support mechanisms and new innovations in the field of food waste, augmented reality, data analytics and drone efficiency.