APPLE iCON COUP
Global tech legend Wozniak headed to Geelong.
GEELONG’S growing tech and start-up culture will be given a national boost when Apple icon Steve Wozniak headlines a public event in the city.
The Apple co-founder and technology entrepreneur has been secured as a guest speaker for the third Pivot Summit on December 8.
Highlighting the significance of the coup, Pivot Summit is one of just two public appearances that Wozniak has committed to in Australia.
It is also understood to be the only regional event Wozniak has ever attended in the country.
Pivot founder Leighton Wells said the inclusion of Wozniak, the designer of the hugely successful Apple II computer, was exciting evidence of the summit’s momentum.
“Entrepreneurial thinking is a global currency and Geelong is incredibly competitive in this space,” Mr Wells said.
“To have someone with the international profile of ‘ Woz’ addressing a future-focused technology event in regional Victoria is reflective of where Geelong is at as a start-up and tech community.
“Woz’s focus on innovation and disruption captures the spirit of Pivot and I’m sure he will be delighted by the startup culture he discovers here in Geelong.”
Wozniak, who co-founded Apple with Steve Jobs in 1976, will share his insights on innovation and emerging technologies in business.
He will also discuss the technology of the future and what exciting developments he has seen globally.
Mr Wells said Wozniak’s presentation would form part of the day-long summit and would not attract an extra entry cost.
“We think the whole day will be full of great content,” he said.
“Effectively you are paying for him, while getting everyone else or vice versa, it makes for a pretty good ticket.”
Mr Wells is the chief operations officer of start-up accelerator Runway Geelong, which is based at the Federal Woollen Mills.
Runway Geelong is aiming to establish the city as a major hub for innovative technology businesses.
The third Pivot Summit will also be held at the historic woollen mills in North Geelong.