- Published:
- Saturday 25 June 2016
Virtual reality, drones, robots, 3D printing and wearable gadgets are just some of the world’s most exciting technology innovations on display in Melbourne this weekend at Australia’s first Technology and Gadget Expo.
Minister for Small Business, Innovation and Trade Philip Dalidakis officially opened the inaugural Technology and Gadget Expo today at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, praising the event as the first-of-its kind in the Asia Pacific region.
The family-friendly expo is uniquely set up to cater for consumers, entrepreneurs, retailers and tech manufacturers, allowing them to engage with the exhibitors and view, try or buy the products on display.
Supported by the Andrews Labor Government and presented by Telstra, the expo is expected to attract more than 20,000 people over the next two days, cementing Melbourne’s reputation as the events capital and Australia’s tech hub.
More than 100 of the best tech brands will be on display with products including drones, electric skateboards, phone watches, GPS and fitness trackers, 3D body and face scanners, the latest in virtual and augmented reality, smart phones and TVs, computers and tablets, home technology, gaming, wearables, robotics and automotive.
The expo also features product trial areas, demonstrations and interactive zones where visitors have an opportunity to trial new gadgets including drone technology and a children’s robot building station.
Exhibitors include big name brands such as Telstra, Oticon, Bridgestone and Just drones, as well as local Victorian tech companies including Skynanny, Virtual Reality Ventures, Future Tech Concept and Aurarum.
Victoria’s tech industry is leading the country in attracting major global tech leaders to base their regional headquarters here and generating revenues of more than $34 million annually for the state’s economy.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Small Business, Innovation and Trade Philip Dalidakis
“Melbourne is Australia’s undisputed tech hub and startup capital so it is appropriate that the first-of-its-kind Technology and Gadget Expo is held here, showcasing the very best of what this industry has to offer.”
“We have some of the best innovators and entrepreneurs in the Asia Pacific region and this expo is a great opportunity for them to network with industry experts and show off their family-friendly products.”