Calling all Central Queensland bright sparks

Media Release 07.08.18 - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The call’s gone out for bright sparks of all ages to bring their ideas, energy and passion to a huge brainstorming weekend in the Central Highlands.

HACKCQ will be a fun-filled, action-packed 54 hours of collaboration with skilled and experienced mentors to pitch, brainstorm and develop business plans that launch real, working startups.

The region’s first-ever hackathon will run in Emerald from Friday, 21 September, to Sunday, 23 September.

Register at chdc.com.au. Tickets are just $20 for students, $20 for teachers and other student guardians, and $40 for professionals, which includes all activities, meals and drinks for the whole weekend.

HACKCQ is an initiative of the Central Highlands Development Corporation (CHDC) and River City Labs, a Brisbane-based company that fosters the growth of startups, and has been supported by the Local Buy Foundation and Advance Queensland.

CHDC General Manager Sandra Hobbs says it’s the first time this exciting opportunity for passionate, motivated startups and budding entrepreneurs has been made available locally.

“HACKCQ is your chance to learn from the best, test ideas and take the first steps towards launching your own startup, right here in the Central Highlands,” Ms Hobbs says.

“Simply bring your passion, enthusiasm, and your laptop, and we’ll supply the expertise and fuel to keep you powering through the weekend.”

HACKCQ will feature workshops, one-on-one mentorships and presentations from well-known, skilled and proven entrepreneurs, including SiteSee’s Lucio Piccoli and Mark Phillips from Business in Bare Feet.

"River City Labs has run over 30 hackathons, bringing together mentors and strategy workshops to help participants work on their business ideas,” River City Labs Programs and Partnerships Manager Sam Joyce says.

“I'm looking forward to facilitating HACKCQ and seeing what ideas will be pitched and worked on.”

The focus will be on applying technology to grow business in four key areas – resources, agriculture, advanced manufacturing, and environment.

“We’re so excited to offer HACKCQ to the region and the support it will give to entrepreneurship, fostering high-tech industries, boosting the engagement of young people, and providing early skill development.” Ms Hobbs says.

EDITOR’S NOTE: For further information, please contact CHDC Media Officer Nicky Fisher 0414 360 697 or media@chdc.com.au