The Rockhampton Region is on its way to becoming Australia’s first Smart Regional Centre with the implementation of a new digital strategy.
The ‘Rockhampton Region: The Smart Way Forward’ (digital) strategy is predicated on the use of technology and real-time data created by sensors and smart devices.
The main aim is to help improve public services, grow employment and get the most out of resources to provide a city where residents want to work, live and play.
The concept also focuses on the next generation of technology and steering towards new technology based jobs.
Rockhampton’s CBD Smart Technology and Hub project, an initiative under the Smart Way Forward Strategy, recently won the Economic Development Australia 2016 Award for Excellence in the Digital Entrepreneurs Category.
The project includes the establishment of a Smart Working Hub and the installation of smart poles and lighting, free public Wi-Fi and support for the university EduRoam, smart CCTV, digital signage; and a smart parking solution.
The Smart Hub on the riverfront on Quay Street is central to the project connected by a $2.1 million investment in Australian-first state-of-the-art smart technologies.
This digital infrastructure and Smart Hub forms the core of the proposed $4.54 million ‘Rockhampton CBD Smart Technologies & Working Hub’ project.
The Smart Hub launched in May, with two start-up businesses moving into the space on opening.
Now there are seven soon to be eight, and a number of the start-ups have put on additional staff.
It has morphed into a thriving little ecosystem with some of the businesses collaborating or seeking advice on their tech ideas.
An Australia first will see Rockhampton partnering with an American company, Illuminating Concepts, to install their Intellistreets smart pole post top modules throughout the Rockhampton CBD to light the way with new smart poles and LED lights.
Rockhampton Region Mayor Margaret Strelow said Council’s passion to source innovative and new technologies as part of the Smart Way Forward Strategy will in turn provide safer streets for the community.
“We received an overwhelming response from residents during consultation last year to create a riverfront that is well lit and safe for CBD workers and families,” said Mayor Strelow.
“As a result, we have adopted the very best in technology as we create a new beginning for our iconic Riverfront.”
The Rockhampton Region is acting now to make sure their residents have access to great, well-paying jobs and that future generations see their future in Rockhampton.
Council is working to position the region as a great place to start and run a business, attract future residents to relocate to the region, and encourage tourists to return again and again.
