Central Coast Council will host a four-part series aimed at looking how innovation could improve the region and generate local solutions.
The first of the four sessions, Big and Bold Ideas, will be held on February 20 at The Entertainment Grounds, West Gosford.
The free event will be open to anyone, including students, who have ideas for how to improve innovation on the Central Coast as well as surrounding areas, including Sydney, the Hunter region and Lake Macquarie.
Council’s Executive Manager, Innovation and Futures, Ricardo Martello, said the flagship series of events will use a new open engagement model to explore the big question, what are the big opportunities on the Central Coast?
“The format of the events aims to encourage two way conversations and diverse thinking with opportunities for break-out sessions, networking and group discussions, fuelled by disruptive and thought-provoking keynote speakers,” Martello said.
“Whether you’re a business owner, an entrepreneur, a school student or just someone who’s passionate about the growth of our community, this event is for you.
“We want people to bring their ideas and open their eyes to potential growth, collaboration and opportunities.”
To kick off the event, attendees will hear from Belinda Campbell Comninos and Michael Comninos, from Sydney-based Astrolabe Group, a strategic consultancy firm which uses strategy, engagement, research and technology to work with clients to manage change and deliver a positive impact for people and places.
Attendees will also hear from Richard Duncan, of Liminal Solutions, who will share his insights and practical tools to help deliver innovation in communities whilst empowering attendees to think out of the box.
The final speaker will be Jessica Christiansen-Franks, co-founder and CEO of Melbourne-based Neighbourlytics, a global urban tech company drawing on public social data to capture the digital footprint of cities, giving real-time insight into neighbourhood life.
She will outline what’s possible for the Central Coast’s urban and modern landscape.
“We’re excited to be bringing this series to the Central Coast community,” Mayor, Lisa Matthews, said.
“It’s the perfect platform for our residents to have their say and bring their innovative ideas to light.”
The Big and Bold Ideas will be held from 8-11.30am on February 20 in the Panorama Room, The Entertainment Grounds, 4 Racecourse Road, West Gosford.
Source:
Media release, Feb 7
Central Coast Council