Innovations as diverse as environmentally-friendly metal processing, automated weed control, life-saving oil rig robotics and vertical bike racks are among the winners in the 2019 WA Innovator of the Year Awards.
The awards, now in their thirteenth year, acknowledge outstanding Western Australian companies that have developed an innovative product, technology or service.
Last night Mining & Process Solutions (MPS) received the overall WA Innovator of the Year award for their development of a non-toxic, biodegradable and reusable liquid to extract certain metals (including gold, silver, copper and nickel) from ore.
Partnering with Curtin University, MPS is continuing the State’s outstanding history in the development of technologies that support an efficient, safe and environmentally sustainable mining industry, with global potential.
In an Awards’ first, snaring a total of three awards, was Tensa Equipment’s Roborigger machine – that manages heavy and dangerous loads on oil and gas platforms protecting workers from injury.
The WA Young Innovator of the Year was awarded two students from Seton Catholic College who created a platform that helps people keep in touch with and able to care for, elderly loved ones.
Other award winners include:
- UWA’s Weed Chipper system that manually identifies and removes weeds in cropping fields, reducing the need for herbicides;
- Steadyrack Bike Parking that uses an easy-to-use vertical storage system to save space; and
- ISOL8’s digital ‘Lock Out Tag Out’ isolation system that makes the operation and maintenance of industrial plants and equipment safer, quicker and more efficient.
More at https://www.newindustries.wa.gov.au/opportunities/ioty
As stated by Innovation and ICT Minister Dave Kelly:
“The winners and finalists of this year’s Awards showcase world-leading innovation and technological advancement happening right here in Western Australia.
“The Innovator of the Year program is an important part of the State Government’s broader strategy to help emerging businesses commercialise their technologies, diversifying the economy and creating new jobs.
“The 16 semi-finalists and finalists received a suite of training, including mentoring, pitch-presentation training, a legal health check and advice about business development, and finance, to help commercialise their innovations.
“I would like to thank everyone involved in the program this year including the programs primary sponsor Rio Tinto and major sponsors Woodside, South32, Business News and DXC Technology.”
Minister’s office – 6552 6100
