The program features keynote insights from Tim Jarvis — polar explorer, environmental champion and award-winning filmmaker — sharing his extraordinary journey and insights into leadership, resilience and sustainability.
We’re also delighted to confirm Richard Beaumont, New Zealand Founder & CPO of Govor from Agovor, who will bring a global perspective on agtech, robotics and regional innovation leadership. As an added highlight, Agovor will lead an on-farm robotics demonstration on 12 March, offering a rare opportunity to see cutting-edge technology in action.
An interactive futures session facilitated by Jason McFarlane (GreenTech Hub) will invite participants to actively explore the question: “From the regions, for the world: what greentech moonshots will Western Australia’s regions lead beyond 2040, and how will local innovation, investment and agency unlock new forms of prosperity, capability and influence?” This hands-on activity is designed to surface bold ideas, shared priorities and practical pathways for regional-led innovation.
Showcasing the powerful collaboration between Indigenous knowledge, ecology and biotechnology, Dr Pia Winberg will share the journey of Rosanna Angus, a Jawi woman from the remote Kimberley, and their work developing a new marine-based product range. Together, they demonstrate how cultural knowledge and science can combine to unlock fresh therapeutic breakthroughs.
Neville Poelina will share a powerful, real-world case study exploring how Indigenous bush medicine has positively impacted the life of someone living with illness. Grounded in cultural knowledge and lived experience, Neville’s presentation offers a deeply human perspective on healing, resilience and the value of traditional medicine.
Darren Holland will present groundbreaking work uncovering anticancer compounds from WA’s marine sponges, highlighting the South West as a globally significant natural laboratory for biomedical discovery.
Adding a creative dimension to the program, Joe Crossley will speak to Astralprojekt — an immersive light and art installation that transforms biological data and scientific concepts into a powerful sensory experience — exploring how art, science and innovation can intersect to spark new ways of thinking about our future.
Minister Stephen Dawson will lead a relaxed, end-of-day Q&A, focused on real regional examples of innovation, collaboration and emerging opportunity.
