Calling all innovators: Hack the Reef

The Cairns Institute at James Cook University will host the second Hack the Reef event as part of Queensland’s annual Myriad Festival.

This creative hackathon is dedicated to finding solutions to problems facing the Great Barrier Reef.

Last year the theme was water pollution and this year’s challenge is for participants to come up with novel ideas to help turn the tide on plastic and other marine debris.

“We’re looking for innovators of all sorts, in fields from IT and research to local knowledge and the law,” said Professor Allan Dale, one of three mentors who will work with participants to bring their ideas to life.

“It’s a free event and we encourage people from all walks of life to take part, including entrepreneurs, students, researchers and reef lovers.

“In addition to brainstorming ideas that could directly benefit the reef, the event also builds skills in networking, free-range thinking and collaboration.”

Hack the Reef will be held at The Cairns Institute at James Cook University in Smithfield on Saturday, April 21^st. It will be delivered in partnership with the Great Barrier Reef Foundation and the Queensland Government.

Registration is free, but places are limited.

Further information and registration details are available at www.myriad.live/hackthereef/