The Greater Whitsunday region has a new flagship innovation event. Tech Verge, delivered in May 2025 by Greater Whitsunday Innovation (GWI) with support from the Queensland Government’s Regional Enablers Program (REP), brought together more than 140 participants to spotlight digital tools and practical transformation for regional businesses.
The event unfolded in two phases, building momentum throughout the year. The Tech Verge Preview in February engaged over 50 stakeholders, setting the stage for the main event in May that drew over 90 attendees, featuring workshops, keynotes, and a live innovation showcase. The combined events successfully connected local SMEs, startups, government representatives, and innovation partners from the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsundays (MIW) region with industry-leading speakers on AI & Digital Transformation to help stimulate business adoption and regional digital transformation.
Digital innovation
Tech Verge 2025 was designed to increase engagement in digital innovation across the MIW region, and it delivered on its objectives. Over 14 expert speakers and facilitators shared insights on critical topics, including:
- AI and automation for regional business.
- Cyber readiness for SMEs.
- Innovation funding readiness.
- Digital storytelling and social media marketing.
The event also saw the launch of the REP-funded Digital Mindshift Collection, a new YouTube series aimed at extending digital adoption.
AI-powered workflows
A major success catalysed by the REP funding is the Microsoft Suites Automation Program, an 8-week course that helps regional businesses implement AI-powered workflows using Microsoft 365 and Copilot tools. This program, a strategic partnership between GWI, Copilot HQ, and Frontrow Technology, has already sold out for 2025 (join the waitlist for 2026), demonstrating a strong regional appetite for digital upskilling. GWI is also developing a complementary Digital Toolkit to further support businesses beyond the program participants.
The success of Tech Verge has also opened doors for broader collaboration, including the first-ever live Mine Pitch event at the Resources Centre of Excellence Innovation Expo and a presence at the Whitsundays Business Conference.
Greater Whitsunday Innovation also brought a delegation of seven innovative businesses and leaders to Something Tech in Brisbane in September that provided many new connections and knowledge insights back to the Mackay Whitsunday region for sharing with the local business and innovation community.
Looking Ahead
Building on the success of 2025, GWI has already released tickets for Tech Verge 2026 – the focus of the two-day event is ‘Tech for Good’ and will explore how digital tools and emerging technologies can unlock time-saving solutions, reduce costs, and drive sustainable growth.
Early bird registration is now open with special pricing until December 31, 2025.
Details:
- Dates: Thursday 28 May to Friday 29 May 2026
- Location: Ocean International Hotel, Mackay
- Register via the website.
About the Regional Enablers Program
The Regional Enablers Program is amplifying local opportunities for Innovation Driven Enterprises to accelerate growth in regions and activating a more connected network of regional innovation organisations.
For more information and to find out what programs and events are offered in your region visit Regional Enablers Program.
Last updated: 21 Oct 2025