Following the success of the 2019 event, Split Spaces have brought back the hackathon that threw innovation at mining industry issues - MackHack.
Regional businesses, start-ups, and entrepreneurs with Mining Equipment, Technology and Services (METS) ideas are invited to take part in a three-day hackathon event at Split Spaces in Mackay.
Come March 6, 7 and 8, local innovators, problem solvers and disruptors will spend the weekend on concept development and prototyping solutions to industry challenges presented by local mining houses and METS sector enterprises.
The weekend will culminate at a final pitch and judging event on 8 March. Teams will present to industry experts and potential mining customers, showcasing their technologies, solutions and their developing business models in front of a live and relevant audience.
The event is part of a series of regional accelerators funded and supported by the Queensland Government and METS Ignited to enhance regional business capability development and accelerate the commercialisation of Australian innovation.
This event is made possible through collaboration and participation of local stakeholders, including Mackay Regional Council, CSIRO, BHP, Glencore, Mastermyne Group, Central Queensland University, Bowen Basin Mining Club and Resources Industry Network.
MackHack will run from 6-8 March 2020, to coincide with CQ Uni Orientation Week activities, providing participants with deep-dive workshops, mentoring and support from industry leaders, entrepreneurs and subject matter experts helping to develop their hacks in response to key mining and METS grassroots industry challenges.
At the conclusion of the weekend teams will pitch to an elite panel of judges. In 2019, the winning pitch resulted in an offer to onsite product trial.
In 2019, the winning solutions included:
- Lightbound - An IOT class 1 laser boundary illumination system with the judges loving the innovative approach to marking boundaries.
- Bretfree Deflector - This technology proposes to increase safety and improve production through a device the team have prototyped that deflect debris falling off conveyors.
- Your Mining Hub - An integrative community hub approach to buying mining safety gear online combined with other products and services for miners and site visitors.
2019 Judge, Jarred Stanes from Mastermyne Group noted about the inaugural event; “Mastermyne was a proud partner of this event which attracted over 30 competitors to the opening night and ultimately led to pitches from five groups with unique solutions to local industry problems. Over $5000 in prizes was awarded after the 54-hour hackathon with several groups now positioned for industry partnerships and funding. As a leading employer of local and regional talent, Mastermyne was buoyed by the capability and dedication shown by all competitors. Congratulations to the winning team “Light Bound” with their pitch including a business model and working laser prototype."
METS Ignited CEO, Adrian Beer says regional businesses have a critical role to play in driving technology and innovation into Australia’s mining industry. “Australian companies have a long history of providing reliable and innovative solutions to the mining sector, METS Ignited is proud to be a supporting partner in another regional program providing training and commercialisation pathways to local businesses. We are looking forward to seeing the calibre of the digital and technology-focused solutions coming out of this year’s event,” said Adrian Beer.
Split Spaces Community Manager Deb Allan is excited to see what MackHack 2020 will bring; “The collaborative approach to problem solving is challenging and rewarding for all involved. We have so many capable people in the region with amazing ideas and this event is a great way to give them a chance to develop the skills they need to succeed in the realm of entrepreneurship.”
To find out more about the events and happenings at Split Spaces visit www.facebook.com/splitspaces or for membership enquiries go to www.splitspaces.com.au
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/split-spaces/mackhack-2020/2789692921123504/
MackHack www.mackhack.com.au
