Brissie medtech firms aim for global expansion

A cohort of medtech startups will be supported by the city of Brisbane to fast-track their global expansion through an accelerator program.

Brisbane’s medtech sector on growth trajectory.

Brisbane’s burgeoning medtech sector continues to grow.

Eleven homegrown medtech startups will be supported by the city of Brisbane to fast-track their global expansion through an accelerator program attracting investment and supporting job growth. Inventors of 3D bio-printed wound dressings, AI-powered digital health app developers and innovators in immunology are among the businesses selected to join Brisbane Economic Development Agency’s (BEDA) third-year cohort part of its medtech global accelerator program.

Delivered in partnership with US-based investment facilitator Life Science Nation, the cohort will participate in a six-month intensive syllabus led by leading local industry experts and mentors, who will help the companies attract commercialisation funding

The program culminates in January next year with the founders pitching to global investors at J.P. Morgan Healthcare Week in San Francisco.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner says Brisbane’s reputation for pioneering life-changing health technology was supported by a thriving start-up culture and world-class research and healthcare facilities.

“Brisbane is at the forefront of innovation and this year’s cohort represents the next wave of groundbreaking health solutions,” Schrinner says.

“Their success will not only benefit lives, but also contribute significantly to Brisbane’s economy by creating jobs, attracting investment and top-tier talent to our city.”

This year’s cohort includes health sector AI firm Akunah, AP1 Longevity, which aims to reignite youthful immune-cell function in the elderly and Cardihab, which is developing a digital platform for cardiac rehabilitation and the management of chronic diseases.

Fantastic 40

You could never accuse Brisbane architect Ray Pini of job hopping. Pini is set to celebrate 40 years with PDT Architects next month after a career that has seen him involved in some of the state’s landmark developments. Pini joined PDT in 1984, rising to become a partner and senior associate. During his long stint, he has worked on numerous government and commercial projects including the restoration of 109 Edward St and The Corso at North Lakes. City Beat hears the popular Pini is not only known for his architectural skills but his terrible jokes and Christmas skits as well as his love of the Broncos and Queensland in general. While he doesn’t have his own children, he has “raised” hundreds of architects and interior designers who all stay in touch with him and see him as an important mentor.

PDT director Miranda Sheehan describes PIni as “consistently treating everyone with respect, regardless of gender or background.” Well done Ray!

`Ray Pini celebrating 40 years in the architecture business

Charity pool

Rugby great Tim Horan and inspirational swimmer Gerrard Gosens head a star-studded team for an upcoming charity fundraiser hosted by GRT Lawyers and the GRT Foundation. GRT Lawyers managing director Glenn Vassallo says about 300 people are expected to attend the event at the Victoria Park Function Centre on Thursday, July 24.

Funds raised will go towards the GRT Foundation’s Great Dreams program, which provides financial support and mentorship to talented young people.

One of the highlights of the evening will be the recognition of Gosens, who is preparing for a world record attempt to become the first blind person to swim the English Channel.

Born completely blind, Gosen’s determination to undertake such a daunting challenge embodies the spirit of overcoming adversity and following your dreams.

Gosen’s upcoming swim is strategically timed between the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics. A former Paralympian, Gerrard will collect the Australian flag from the Paralympics office in Brisbane on Tuesday, 23rd July, to carry with him on his journey.

After completing his channel crossing, Gerrard will deliver the flag to the Athletes’ Village in Paris ahead of the Paralympics opening ceremony.

Brisbane based paratriathlete Gerrard Gosens