North Queensland is emerging as a leader in the circular economy, driven by initiatives like the inaugural Circular Futures NQ – Innovation and Sustainability Summit held in Townsville in May 2025. This landmark event, powered by Smart Precinct NQ and supported by various key partners, brought together experts and innovators to accelerate sustainable solutions.
The three-day summit highlighted the transformative potential of circular economy principles, focusing on innovation, inclusivity, and resilience. A key highlight was the high-energy pitch night, where 14 entrepreneurs from across Queensland presented their circular solutions to potential partners and investors.
Inspiring stories and practical actions
Attendees gained valuable insights from leaders in circular innovation:
- Graham Ross (BlockTexx): shared his journey of building the world's largest commercial-scale textile resource facility in Queensland, emphasising the importance of partnerships and government procurement.
- Rebecca Innes (Boody Underwear): discussed tackling fashion's end-of-life challenges, showcasing a collaboration with Townsville's Atlas Soils to transform coffee waste into soil products.
- Steve Tiley (Wandarra): introduced innovative homegrown materials, including hemp-based construction materials and PFAs-free compostable packaging.
- Ken Bellamy (VRM Biologik): unveiled The Circle, a 16-hectare system built in the Saudi Arabian desert that turns wastewater into irrigation-grade water through technology using sunlight, gravity, and microbes, without pumps or chemicals.
The summit also focused on practical insights and actions:
- A Q&A session, "Disruption for Good: On the Couch," addressed barriers to scaling circular solutions, from technology to policy.
- Townsville City Council showcased its commitment to cross-sector collaboration for circular solutions in partnership with Smart Precinct NQ and the wider community.
- Updates were provided on the Queensland Government’s Draft Queensland Waste Strategy 2025–2030 and the recipients of the Circular Economy Investment Program.
Ongoing commitment and what the future holds
These initiatives at local and state levels demonstrate a strong commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability, with Smart Precinct NQ playing a crucial enabling role for SMEs transitioning to a circular economy. The Queensland Government's Regional Enablers Program supports Smart Precinct NQ with nearly $300,000 over three years for initiatives like the summit and other innovation programs.
The Circular Futures NQ Summit successfully positioned North Queensland as a leader in circular economy innovation. Its insights and ideas were captured in the Smart Precinct Time Capsule, capturing the region’s thought leadership and commitment to a sustainable future and making it accessible to everyone.
Looking ahead 2026, the program will accelerate founder success through a Founder Capability Development Program on 28–29 May. Culminating in a Founder Pitch Showcase, the event will connect participants directly with investors and ecosystem leaders across industry, research and the North Queensland business community. The experience is enhanced by a curated Reef City Innovation Tour, bringing founders, investors and key stakeholders together to see regional innovation and sustainability in action. Find out more about these 28–29 May activities by visiting Founder Pitch Showcase.
Last updated: 24 Apr 2026