The Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Hub is set to host an informative workshop on advanced manufacturing technologies on Thursday, 17 October 2024. 

This hands-on workshop aims to help Queensland manufacturers navigate the latest advancements in robotics, artificial intelligence, and 3D printing, essential for scaling their operations in an increasingly digital landscape.

The event will kick off with a welcome address followed by an introduction to the ARM Hub, renowned for its role in accelerating industry digital transformation. 

Attendees can look forward to a series of technology presentations, starting with a focus on collaborative robots, commonly known as cobots.

The workshop will then explore 3D printing and delve into the applications of artificial intelligence in manufacturing.

Participants will have the opportunity to engage in interactive demonstrations of each technology and gain insights from a panel discussion. 

The workshop will conclude with a summary and a networking session from 4:00 PM.

This event is tailoured for companies looking to scale operations, educators, and anyone with an interest in advanced manufacturing technologies. 

Specifically, it targets businesses that have already automated processes, those considering automation, and technology companies seeking to expand their capabilities.

The workshop is organised in collaboration with the Queensland Government Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing, and Water, aligning with the Queensland Government’s Advanced Manufacturing 10-Year Roadmap and Action Plan.

For more details, click here.

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As the tech world converges in Sydney for SXSW Sydney 2024, the National AI Centre (NAIC) is highlighting the event as a key feature during Australia’s AI Month. 

This year’s gathering follows the inaugural SXSW Sydney held in 2023, which marked the beginning of a 10-year agreement to host the festival outside the United States.

The week-long celebration of innovation will unite small and medium enterprises (SMEs), startups, technology innovators, thought leaders, industry decision-makers, academia, and government agencies. 

Participants will have the opportunity to engage in various experiences, including exploring the NAIC #AIAustralia experience space at the SXSW Tech & Innovation Expo, connecting with Australia’s AI Adopt Centres, and learning about the burgeoning AI industry in Australia.

Attendees can expect to delve into topics such as AI music and image creation, AI safety, and their personal AI journeys. 

The conference will also feature leading AI experts discussing significant themes.

Notable sessions at the SXSW Conference include “Perceptive Robots Are Coming – Look Busy!” and “AI for Good Is Good for Australia.”

Additionally, the NAIC will host sessions at the Discovery Stage within the SXSW Tech & Innovation Expo, focusing on the impact of AI on human creativity and a debate titled “Australia Should Be a Leader in AI.”

The event will also support the Build Club AI Hackathon, which will include brainstorming sessions on key hack themes, further fostering collaboration and innovation in the AI sector.

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Lenovo will host its tenth annual Global Tech World event on 15 October 2024, in Bellevue, Washington, celebrating a decade of innovation under the theme “Experience the Future of Smarter AI for All.”

The event will highlight Lenovo’s commitment to advancing artificial intelligence (AI) through a range of end-to-end solutions. 

Attendees can expect to see ground-breaking AI for Good projects, hybrid AI applications designed to empower both individuals and enterprises, and strategies for fast-tracking and deploying generative AI technology.

Lenovo will also emphasise its ongoing investments and collaborations with leading partners to provide comprehensive AI-ready, AI-enabled, and AI-optimised devices, infrastructure, solutions, and services. 

Key partners set to join Lenovo on stage include industry leaders from Intel, AMD, Qualcomm, Microsoft, and NVIDIA, who will discuss the future of AI and recap product launches earlier this year.

Some of the notable collaborations include:

• Intel: Lenovo was one of the first companies to introduce AI-enabled PCs featuring Intel Core Ultra processors.
• AMD: The launch of AI laptops powered by 3rd Gen Ryzen AI processors, catering to consumers, commercial sectors, and small-to-medium businesses.
• Qualcomm and Microsoft: The introduction of the first Copilot+ PCs powered by Snapdragon X Elite, specifically the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x and ThinkPad T14s Gen 6.
• NVIDIA: New Hybrid AI solutions that leverage generative AI applications for enterprises, enhancing transformation capabilities across various industries.

Lenovo Chairman and CEO Yuanqing Yang will deliver a keynote session outlining the company’s latest innovations and strategic direction in pursuit of “Smarter AI for All.” 

Yang will showcase how hybrid AI technology is set to benefit users in various settings—be it at home, in the office, or on the move.

The event will cater to both in-person and virtual attendees, highlighting how Lenovo’s hybrid AI solutions support organizations of all sizes. 

Participants will learn about technologies that accelerate AI outcomes, enhance private AI scalability, and provide cost-effective access to GPU resources.

Additional speakers at the event will include Lenovo’s new Chief Technology Officer Dr Tolga Kurtoglu and President of the Emerging Technology Group Dr Yong Rui, alongside prominent figures such as AMD’s Lisa Su, Intel’s Pat Gelsinger, Microsoft’s Satya Nadella, Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg, and NVIDIA’s Jensen Huang.

For those unable to attend in person, Tech World ’24 will be live-streamed and available on-demand across multiple time zones. 

Interested participants can register and view the full agenda by visiting the Lenovo Tech World ’24 website.

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The 2024 Workplace Health & Safety Show is set to take place in Sydney from 23 to 24 October, coinciding with National Safe Work Month. 

As Australia’s leading event for workplace health and safety professionals, the Show aims to foster networking, education, and innovation in workplace safety.

According to organisers, the event comes at a critical time, with Safe Work Australia reporting 200 workplace fatalities in 2023 and 139,000 workers’ compensation claims for serious injuries or diseases during the 2022-2023 period. 

Nathan Lee, director of High Risk Work and Industries Policy at Safe Work Australia, stressed the importance of prioritising workplace safety: “Workplace deaths in Australia are something we should see as completely unacceptable. No one should leave for work in the morning and not come home safely to their family at night.”

Lee also highlighted that work health and safety (WHS) should be a core part of business operations, regardless of the company’s size. 

This message aligns with the goal of National Safe Work Month in October, which seeks to promote a strong safety culture in Australian workplaces.

The Show, which is organised to coincide with this national initiative, is designed to support WHS professionals through access to industry-leading resources. 

“It’s an event designed for the safety community, providing them with the tools and support they need to make Australian workplaces safer and healthier,” said Stephen Blackie, Portfolio Manager of the Workplace Health & Safety Show.

This year, the Show will also introduce the Champions of Safety Awards, an initiative to honour individuals who go the extra mile in protecting workers’ safety and wellbeing. 

“We recognise that everyone can be a champion of safety—this aligns perfectly with this year’s National Safe Work Month theme: Safety is everyone’s business,” Blackie added. The winners of the awards will be announced at the event.

Another major highlight of the Show is its extensive educational program, offering over 40 hours of content delivered by 75 experts in the field. 

Attendees can earn Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points and enhance their knowledge of safety practices through seminars, workshops, and summits. 

These sessions will cover a range of topics, from safety technology and injury prevention to worker wellbeing. 

Nathan Lee will also present a seminar focused on making WHS laws easier to understand and implement, particularly for smaller businesses.

The Show will feature over 160 exhibitors, showcasing more than 200 brands and cutting-edge safety innovations. 

“You won’t find such a comprehensive, in-person directory of service providers anywhere else,” Blackie emphasised, noting the event’s ability to combine education with hands-on experiences of the latest safety solutions.

For more information about the Workplace Health & Safety Show, visit whsshow.com.au.

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Sleeptite was honoured with three awards at the 2024 Australian Good Design Awards, held at the International Convention Centre Sydney on Friday night. 

The company’s SIRIUS Assistive Technology Bed and world-first REMi System earned accolades for their innovative contributions to the aged and disability care sectors, the company said in a news release. 

“To receive not one but three Australian Good Design Awards in recognition of the products we are creating for the aged and disability care sectors is an incredibly exciting and humbling experience for the entire Sleeptite team,” Sleeptite CEO, Cameron van den Dungen, remarked.

Sleeptite’s products were designed with extensive consultation with care workers, with a focus on providing respect and dignity to end-users, including the elderly and those living with disabilities. 

“We design to bring respect and dignity back to the end user, be they elderly or someone living with a disability at any age,” van den Dungen added.

The company’s recognition underscores its collaboration with esteemed partners. “I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our incredible Collaboration Partners, RMIT University…Monash University, and Sento Solutions,” van den Dungen said, highlighting the role of these institutions in the product’s development.

The Australian Good Design Awards, which celebrate innovation, functionality, and societal impact, recognised Sleeptite’s SIRIUS Bed with a Good Design Award Winner Accolade in the Product Design (Medical and Scientific) category.

“Sleeptite’s SIRIUS adjustable bed combines clean aesthetics with seamless clinical functionality,” the Jury commented. 

“It was designed to provide respect and dignity to users while ensuring safety for both the user and their caregivers.”

Sleeptite’s REMi® system also received two awards in the Design Research category—one for hardware development and another for the REMi Dashboard. This system addresses a critical issue in aged care, where falls pose a major risk, especially during overnight hours.

“Sleeptite’s REMi system addresses the critical issue of falls among the elderly in residential aged care facilities by utilising non-invasive sensors to discreetly monitor fall risk,” the Jury said.

The Jury also praised the REMi Dashboard, noting its focus on accessibility, usability, and reducing notification fatigue for carers. “The dashboard offers actionable insights for improving health outcomes,” they added.

The 2024 Good Design Awards recognised excellence across 12 disciplines, celebrating projects from architecture to emerging fields like design strategy and social impact. 

Over 80 Jurors from around the globe rigorously evaluated each entry, focusing on three core criteria: Good Design, Design Innovation, and Design Impact.

Rachel Wye, managing director of Good Design Australia, reflected on the broader significance of the awards, saying, “This year’s Awards reflect the profound ripple effects that exceptional design can have on people, place, and planet… These projects exemplify how thoughtful design can drive meaningful change.”

“The Australian Good Design Awards celebrate the transformative power of design in solving complex business, environmental, and societal challenges,” Wye added, emphasising the importance of innovation and sustainability in today’s design landscape.

Founded in 1958, the Australian Good Design Awards remain the country’s most prestigious international accolade for design and innovation. 

“We are honoured to celebrate this year’s Winners… These projects stand as a testament to the power of good design and its ability to make a significant, positive impact in our world,” Wye concluded.

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The Hunter Manufacturing Awards (HMA) has revealed the finalists for its 2024 awards, coinciding with the organisation’s upcoming 20th Anniversary Gala Awards Night scheduled for Friday, 18 October 2024, at NEX Newcastle.

According to HMA, over the past two decades, the manufacturing sector in the Central to Mid-North Coast and Hunter regions has experienced changes. 

Once primarily focused on traditional production methods, the industry has adapted to new technologies and innovative practices, gaining recognition for enhanced productivity and creativity.

HMA Chair Jacqui Daley noted the expansion of the sector since the inaugural awards, highlighting the integration of advanced manufacturing into various fields, including defence, aerospace, mining, chemical processing, construction, and energy generation.

In particular, the 2024 awards will acknowledge the contributions of companies and individuals who have played pivotal roles in this evolution. 

“The 20-year journey of manufacturing through the eyes of past HMA winners and finalists shows us that we’re just getting started,” Daley stated, referencing advancements in automation, sustainability, and global competitiveness.

Among this year’s finalists are several first-time entrants, including Process Automations and Controls, Agrana Fruit, NET Modular, Nova Team Australia, and Wobble-Tee Sprinklers. 

The inclusion of start-ups such as Allegro Energy Pty Ltd and Australian Electric Vehicle Specialists reflects the region’s growing diversity in manufacturing.

Judging Convenor Michael Murray highlighted Allegro Energy’s innovative approach to Long Duration Energy Storage (LDES) technologies, which aim to support net-zero emissions. 

“This innovation is transformative. It addresses critical safety, scalability, and performance issues that current battery technologies can’t overcome,” Murray explained.

Established companies like Tomago Aluminium continue to demonstrate excellence within the sector. Murray remarked on Tomago’s longstanding participation in the HMA since 2006, noting its commitment to ongoing improvement and adaptation in a rapidly evolving market.

Wobble-Tee Sprinklers, another first-time finalist, has been operating in the region for 26 years. 

Murray expressed satisfaction in recognising such companies that contribute to the local manufacturing landscape.

The 20th Anniversary Gala Awards Night will feature guest speakers, HMA judges, board members, and the 2024 finalists.

“Twenty years is a significant milestone for the HMA, and it’s a testament to the resilience and innovation of Hunter manufacturers,” Daley noted. 

“As we celebrate this anniversary, we’re proud to showcase the incredible work being done in the region and look forward to even more success stories in the years to come.”

Event Details:

• Date: Friday, 18 October 2024
• Location: NEX, King Street, Newcastle
• Tickets: $220 per person
• Dress Code: Black tie with a splash of gold
• RSVP: Friday, 11 October 2024

Tickets are currently available for purchase here.

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More Sydney shoppers will soon have their groceries delivered by battery electric vehicle (BEV) trucks, thanks to an Australian-first project backed by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA). 

The project, led by global fleet electrification specialist Zenobe, aims to integrate electric vehicles into Woolworths’ grocery delivery services, the agency said in a news release.

ARENA is providing $8.5 million from its Driving the Nation Fund to support the development of a BEV truck charging hub in Mascot, NSW. 

This initiative will help demonstrate the benefits of electrifying the transport sector, particularly for grocery deliveries.

“This Australian first project is showing the heavy transport sector how electrification can be integrated into their existing business models and drive down the high emissions from transporting goods our roads,” said ARENA CEO Darren Miller. 

“As customers become more used to having their groceries delivered, it makes sense to find renewable energy solutions to do so.”

The project includes the construction of a $19 million charging hub and the leasing of 60 BEV trucks to Woolworths for its grocery delivery fleet. 

The hub, featuring 22 dual-port chargers and second-life EV batteries for stationary power storage, will also have the capacity to accommodate additional trucks for a multi-user facility.

“Transport plays a vital role in Australia’s economy and contributes to 20% of emissions,” Miller added. “ARENA is excited to fund projects like this that find solutions to the problem.”

Zenobe’s innovative business model—electric vehicles as a service (EVaaS)—will allow businesses like Woolworths to overcome barriers such as high capital costs and lack of experience in fleet electrification. 

According to ARENA, the trucks will be leased to Woolworths, showcasing the viability of BEVs for last-mile deliveries.

“Green finance is key to unlocking flagship projects like this, accelerating the decarbonisation of transport,” said Nicholas Beatty, Founder and Director of Zenobe. 

“Collaboration remains key, and together with ARENA and Woolworths, we are showing that the truck sector can electrify today.”

Construction on the charging hub is set to begin in September 2024, with completion expected by early 2025. 

This project follows Zenobe’s earlier success in NSW, where it worked with ARENA on the $37.2 million Next Generation Electric Bus Depot in Leichhardt.

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Fine Food Australia has concluded its 2024 event with a remarkable turnout over four days at Melbourne’s Convention and Exhibition Centre, celebrating 40 years of the iconic expo. 

This year’s event attracted industry experts, chefs, baristas, and visitors from around the globe, showcasing cutting-edge products and innovations in the foodservice and hospitality sectors.

The expo featured over 875 exhibitors from both Australia and abroad, highlighting a diverse range of categories including catering equipment, bakery, beverages, food products, hospitality technology, meat and seafood, and packaging. 

Sinead Kavanagh, Event Product Manager, reflected on the event’s success, stating, “The excitement and buzz at Fine Food this week shows that while the past years have been challenging, the industry’s thirst for knowledge, innovation, and connection remains strong.” 

She added, “The large number of international visitors and over 200 buyer meetings are a testament to the global reputation of Australian products.”

Key competitions added excitement to the event. The Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award, aimed at recognising emerging culinary talent, saw Archer Houghton crowned as the 2024 Golden Chef of the Year. 

Additionally, the Great Aussie Pie Comp celebrated its 35th anniversary, with Buddy Bakery from Melton, VIC, winning the Plain Meat Pie category, and Orange Spot Bakery from Glenelg, SA, taking first place in the Plain Sausage Roll category.

Other competitions included the ACF Culinary Challenge, where Victoria’s Bivushan Bhandari was named 2024 Most Outstanding Chef, and the Bake Skills Australia competition, with Ryan Wu from Victoria claiming the Champion Baker title.

The Fine Food Australia Expo will return to Sydney’s ICC from 8 to 11 September 2025, as organisers continue to drive innovation and creativity in the foodservice industry.

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Ethical Clothing Australia Week 2024 is scheduled to take place from 7 to 13 October, celebrating the people and businesses driving the ethical and local production of textiles, clothing, and footwear in Australia. 

The week-long event will feature a blend of in-person and online activities designed to engage consumers, industry professionals, and government bodies.

Rachel Reilly, National Manager of Ethical Clothing Australia, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming events, noting a surge in interest surrounding ethical and sustainable fashion. 

“Right now, there are calls for change and a groundswell of interest – from consumers, industry, and government bodies – focused on transparency and accountability in ethical and sustainable fashion and manufacturing. It’s exciting for us to see,” Reilly stated.

As more consumers inquire about the origins of their clothing, Ethical Clothing Australia Week offers a platform for accredited businesses to respond. 

“More people are asking questions about their clothing: who made it, where and how,” Reilly added. 

“Ethical Clothing Australia Week gives accredited businesses a nationwide platform to answer those questions and show their commitment not just to producing locally but also to protecting and upholding the rights of all the amazing and skilled workers in their supply chains.”

Throughout the week, accredited brands and manufacturers will host various events, providing consumers with an opportunity to explore ethical brands and manufacturing practices. 

The events will also serve as a platform for businesses interested in manufacturing within Australia to connect with like-minded entities.

“Whether it’s a consumer looking to purchase with confidence or government agencies preferencing local and ethical options in their procurement policies – Ethical Clothing Australia Week 2024 is a chance to see what manufacturing and fashion in Australia looks like when it is done ethically,” Reilly emphasised.

The week will officially launch on 3 October with an industry event in Melbourne. 

Details on upcoming events and ticket registrations will be available through Ethical Clothing Australia’s social media channels and newsletter.

For more information, visit Ethical Clothing Australia.

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Enable, a rebate management firm, is set to host Elevate 2024, the premier rebate strategy conference in the APAC region, in Sydney and Melbourne this September. 

The summit will take place at the Sheraton Grand Hyde Park in Sydney on 3 September 2024 and at The Melbourne Marriott on 5 September 2024.

As a leading collaborative rebate management platform, Enable supports manufacturers, distributors, and retailers in optimising their rebate programs. 

With a growing presence in Sydney and Melbourne, Enable collaborates with prominent Australian companies including David Jones, Chemist Warehouse, Coles, Bapcor, Super Retail Group, and One NZ.

Elevate 2024 aims to address these challenges by bringing together experts from finance, procurement, sales, and merchandising. 

Attendees will gain insights from industry leaders who have successfully transformed their rebate management strategies and learned how to enhance trading relationships, maximise earnings, and streamline the rebate management process.

The conference will feature a range of activities including case studies, best practices sessions, research briefings, interactive discussions, and networking opportunities. 

Sessions are scheduled from 11am to 5pm, with networking drinks extending until 6:30pm.

Registration for Elevate 2024 is free, but spots are limited. 

Interested parties can secure their place by registering at Enable Elevate 2024 Registration.

Enable is a company dedicated to empowering manufacturers, distributors, and retailers by enhancing their rebate management processes and driving business growth.

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