FKG Group to lead USQ and TSBE in establishment of AgTech and Logistics Hub
The hub will bring together industry, start-ups, SMEs, agribusiness, training providers, supply chains to drive productivity, create jobs and stimulate the economy.
Development
Don't miss out on the headlines from Development. Followed categories will be added to My News.
FKG Group will lead a consortia including Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise and the University of Southern Queensland in the establishment of the $3.3 million AgTech and Logistics Hub.
The forward-thinking project is funded by a State Government Advance Queensland Grant.
Under questioning in parliamentary estimates this week, Minister for Tourism, Industry, Development and Innovation Stirling Hinchcliffe said the hub would bring together industry, start-ups, SMEs, agribusiness, training providers, supply chains – including manufacturers and investors – to drive productivity, create jobs and stimulate the Darling Downs economy.
“It will give a direct opportunity for start-ups to pitch their ideas in solving a problem faced by agribusiness,” he said.
“The hub will allow the testing of robotics and autonomous technology like drones and support workshops, mentoring programs and industry forums that will help across the board.”
The AgTech Hub was the focus of last night’s final TSBE Enterprise Evening for the year.
Guests heard from AgriFood Connect interim director Thomas Hall and Institute for Resilient Regions executive director Professor John McVeigh.
“The hub will accelerate the transfer of knowledge and real-world solutions enabling Queensland producers to scale and export our success across Australia and beyond,” Mr Hall said.
“It will also create more diverse regional capabilities, and also create high value skilled jobs which is great for the future of the region.
“The ecosystem will promote an open innovation approach, counter to the traditional siloed mentality.”
TSBE CEO Ali Davenport said the discussion was an exciting opportunity to hear about the positive impacts for the region.
“The AgTech Hub will grow our reputation as an agriculture innovator and help us become leaders in this space,” Ms Davenport said.
‘Horrifying’: Residents take council to court over new childcare centre
The Toowoomba Regional Council has been taken to court by residents opposing a new childcare centre on a major intersection, which locals say has been the site of serious crashes.
‘Step forward’: Focus of next Toowoomba leaders summit revealed
Toowoomba’s leaders from three levels of government will finally meet again for the first time in nine months — and one major issue will be on the agenda.
Revealed: What could be coming to Highfields’ new town centre
A planned town centre for one of the region’s fastest-growing communities has been updated for the first time in seven years, with residents now able to give feedback on it. What’s new in the plan.
Up to 700 lots: Major inner-city project revived in big housing boost
Toowoomba’s depleted housing stocks are set for a boost in the coming years, after a developer revived plans for a project near the new hospital. Here’s when lots could be available:
Revealed: When Toowoomba’s new $30m Officeworks will open
Queensland’s second-largest Officeworks precinct will include two new fast food outlets and a national chain’s first entry into Toowoomba.
‘Clear imbalance’: 221-lot estate planned as housing crisis laid bare
More than 200 lots could be added to one of Toowoomba’s key growth areas as evidence mounts of the growing need for new housing across the city.