Innovators help create new visions for Melbourne precinct

Pilot stream finalists

• the dating-style app for buildings prototype will invite locals and visitors to swipe their way through Fishermans Bend to learn about existing and proposed buildings
• the Solar-powered Gumnut project will draw on emerging technology to improve wayfinding and storytelling in Fishermans Bend through a series of 4.5 metre gumtrees
• the Recycled Material Raingarden pilot aims to increase biodiversity, reduce the risk of flooding and repurpose waste, while helping to educate Melburnians on raingarden design.

The Ideas stream finalists will receive a prize to support their project’s development, which may include funding, mentoring, business development or entry into an incubator programme.

“This emerging technology testbed provides a unique opportunity to help shape Australia’s largest urban renewal project. With the help of our challenge winner, Melbourne is set to make its mark as the innovation capital of Australia”

The Pilot stream winner will receive $70,000 to bring their idea to life in partnership with the City of Melbourne. Melburnians can vote for their favourite pilot online to help determine the winner.

“Each of these fantastic concepts has the potential to help us reimagine Fishermans Bend – Melbourne’s oldest innovation precinct, which has seen the creation of Australia’s first Holden and black box recorder,” said Sally Capp, lord mayor.

“We look forward to hearing from these creative minds on Pitch Night and learn how they propose to use data and technology to drive Melbourne towards a more sustainable and resilient future.”

She continued: “We encourage Melburnians to join us on Pitch Night to hear more about these incredible ideas and vote for the pilot they’d like to see brought to life in Fishermans Bend.”

“It’s great to see such a high calibre of submissions for the Fishermans Bend Innovation Challenge from talented entrepreneurs, students and start-ups,” added Davydd Griffiths, education and innovation portfolio lead councillor.

“This emerging technology testbed provides a unique opportunity to help shape Australia’s largest urban renewal project. With the help of our challenge winner, Melbourne is set to make its mark as the innovation capital of Australia.”

For more information about the finalists, visit the Participate Melbourne website.