A new chapter has begun in Burnie for an iconic building transformed by the University of Tasmania into a technology and innovation hub to serve the North-West region.
The $4+ million interior refurbishment of The Makers – located at West Park in Burnie – is now complete, and hosting teams from the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture and Tech Solutions Hub, which forms part of the College of Business and Economics (CoBE).
In 2024, a Business Incubator will begin operating in the space, and a central demonstration area will be hosting a range of community activities and events focussed on the themes of drones, agriculture and technology and artificial intelligence.
This will culminate in a one-day public extravaganza later in the year when the building presents ‘MakerX’ - a festival showcasing all things ‘making’ through hands-on demonstrations that link with STEM education and the region’s workforce.
Associate Professor Sonya Stanford, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Cradle Coast) said it was exciting to have reached such an important milestone for the space.
“The Makers is more than just a building. It is a place where people will be working collectively to shape a bright future for the North-West region by developing innovative solutions to complex problems the communities here are experiencing,” Associate Professor Stanford said.
“The space will be open to the community on a programmed basis, and we are really looking forward to sharing an exciting line-up of educational events where folks can also discover and explore the new space in the New Year.”
The Makers building, which continues to be owned by Burnie City Council, now features state-of-the-art laboratories supporting TIA’s globally-relevant research, collaborative areas for business and industry activities, specialised spaces hosting the Tech Solutions Hub’s manufacturing technology and equipment, and also staff working environments.
The reinvigorated interior was designed by architects Liminal with refurbishment activity undertaken by local construction firm Fairbrother.
The work was funded entirely by the University as part of a continued investment to advance the diversity of opportunities and positive outcomes in the North-West region.
