More than 1,500 visitors submerged themselves in the innovative spirit of the Casey Cardinia Region’s INNovation Summit on Sunday 28 April.
A mix of experiences were on offer, including inspirational talks on the library’s big steps, shark-tank style business pitches and our region’s first ever eSports Competition.
City of Casey Mayor Amanda Stapledon was energised by the day’s entrepreneurial spirit, beginning with a socially conscious breakfast held under the eaves of Bunjil Place.
“I was so proud to share in an event like this and to hear that by doing so we raised $2,000 for the Casey Cardinia Foundation’s Bunyip Fire Emergency Relief Fund is truly special,” Cr Stapledon said.
“Whoz Cookn should be commended for their efforts to create motivational experiences like this that are accessible to all.”
But it wasn’t just the breakfast that inspired those who visited.
Dozens also settled into the Bunjil Place Library’s big steps to enjoy 16 Fireside Sessions, short inspirational talks, on everything from how to motivate staff, and living with visiobibliophobia (a social anxiety disorder associated with social networking platforms) to their own very personal business journeys to success.
Hundreds of people also gathered in the Bunjil Place Studio to compete for more than $1,000 cash in the eSports tournament, Smash @ Bunjil Place.
Hosted by the not-for-profit Couch Warriors, the event showcased the popularity and growth potential of the booming tech-sport.
Jack from Couch Warriors was thrilled to bring eSports to Bunjil Place.
“We were thrilled to be able to host this tournament at Bunjil Place. The studio was perfectly suited to us and we hope that this will be the first of many tournaments held here,” Jack said.
Throughout the day, visitors were also able to get up close with virtual reality, artificial intelligence and wellness applications at Experience Kiosks dotted throughout the plaza.
As if that wasn’t enough, excitement levels were raised to their limits at the Pitchfest, where ten local business people presented their new business, or new business idea, shark-tank style to a panel of judges and potential investors in a winner takes all battle.
Dr Saiyi Li and his team at Bayes Tech took home the ultimate prize of almost $12,000 worth of prizes for their Tele-Rehabilitation Platform which helped patients stick to their exercise regime and improved communications between therapists and their patients.
