The University’s leading industry partner event celebrated collaborative breakthroughs and facilitated networking and exploration of future opportunities.
The evening was opened by Dr Megan Fisher, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Industry Engagement), with Vice-Chancellor and President of La Trobe University, Professor Theo Farrell, serving as keynote speaker. Among industry and government guests were CSIRO, Agriculture Victoria Services, VivaZome Therapeutics Pty Ltd, Global Health, Quantum Victoria, Breakthrough Victoria, the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions, and Nillumbik Shire Council.
In his address, Professor Farrell highlighted the crucial role that industry partnerships play in driving innovation and fostering real-world impact.
"It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach.
“Partnerships are multi-dimensional, and have multiple benefits – for the University, for our students, for our partners, for the community, and in addressing national and global problems," he stated, underscoring the event's significance.
A lineup of esteemed La Trobe researchers and industry partners showcased their groundbreaking projects:
- Victorian Virtual Emergency Department and the Digital Innovation Hub
Featuring Professor James Boyd, Chair of Digital Health, and Jeff Jones, Digital Innovation Hub Manager at La Trobe University, alongside Dr Jennifer Hutton from the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department and Rebecca Jessup, Director of Research and Evaluation at Northern Health - Animal Vaccines and Health
Highlighted by Professor Travis Beddoe, Head of the Department of Animal, Plant and Soil Sciences, and Dr Chris Richards, Managing Director of Apiam Animal Health - Recycling and Repurposing Agricultural Waste
Presented by Associate Professor Dr Ing Kong, Deputy Head of Engineering at La Trobe University, and Dr William Ritchie, Alumni and Founding Director of Ritchie Technology.
Earlier in the day, event attendees were given the option to tour two of the University's cutting-edge facilities: the La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science (LIMS) and the La Trobe Digital Innovation Hub. Showcasing La Trobe’s world-leading capabilities across sectors; digital, digital health, AI, as well as cancer, infection and immunity, molecular design and nanoscience.
The La Trobe Partner Showcase also functioned as an invaluable networking opportunity for guests to connect and seek collaborative opportunities. The close of formalities and presentations signalled the beginning of a dedicated networking session, during which industry representatives and researchers were encouraged to engage and establish connections.
“We want to continue building the ecosystem, supporting the growth of companies, and the economic development of our communities more widely,” said Dr Fisher.
Select academics and industry representatives played a pivotal role in the networking session, exhibiting with stands on behalf of the Care Economy Research Institute, the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, the School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, the Baker Institute, Data Biome represented by Dr Steve Petrovski, and i-scribe represented by Randi Thanthiriwattage.
“The take-home message is the University is open for business – and we’re receptive to exploring different ways of collaborating.
"Importantly, it’s not just about working with established businesses or big companies. No matter how big or small, we’re keen to collaborate with smart people who have smart ideas – we can help you scale your project over time,” said Professor Farrell.
The annual La Trobe Partner Showcase is a conduit to witness groundbreaking research and a strategic networking platform, enabling attendees to connect with the University’s extensive partner ecosystem, collaborators, and world-renowned researchers.
La Trobe University seeks to be a partner of choice for industry.
We look forward to continued partnership and innovation.
Connect with La Trobe Industry
Stay up-to-date with the latest news and events from La Trobe Industry via LinkedIn and the Industry website.
For general enquiries or more information, please contact industry.engagement@latrobe.edu.au
