Reflections on Our Latest Innovation Lunch

By Zara Crichton, CEO, Hunter iF

If you want to see the future of the Hunter region, you just had to be in the room last Friday. What started as our monthly innovation lunch felt more like a masterclass in local brilliance. With so many passionate creators, manufacturers, and emerging leaders coming together, the energy was electric. It was more than just a successful gathering — it was a powerful reminder of the thriving, collaborative ecosystem we are building right here in our own backyard.

Showcasing Local Brilliance

We were privileged to spotlight the incredible talent and industry operating right here in the Hunter:

Design Anthology: Josh Jeffress and Nat Andrew demonstrated their brilliant work in helping creators materialise, visualise, and commercialise their products. They are an absolute gem of a company to have in our region.
Australian EVS: Edwin Higginsonopened our eyes to the advanced electric vehicle retrofitting and manufacturing happening locally. Many attendees were amazed to discover this level of sustainable innovation is right on our doorstep.
Manufacturing Pride: Jacqui Daleyshowcased her ongoing work promoting local manufacturers, highlighted by the exciting upcoming launch of her new 'BRAG book'.

Fostering the Next Generation

A thriving ecosystem relies on nurturing new talent, diverse voices, and hands-on skills.

UON FLIP Cohort: Peter Franke and Adam Hyland of Frankie Highland led a fantastic pre-lunch Intellectual Property session. It was incredibly rewarding to see this attract strong younger female participation and an excellent turnout from the University of Newcastle’s FLIP cohort.
Apprenticeships: Nicole Clifton beautifully articulated what empowers young people entering manufacturing apprenticeships (while Prof. Will Rifkin stole the show with his trademark professor jokes!), hopefully inspiring a few new careers for those wanting to get their hands dirty.

A Collaborative Effort

Events of this caliber require a village. A massive thank you to Adrienne Donnelly and Nick Couper from the Hunter Manufacturing Awards (HMA) for your collaboration, award insights, and the fabulous Two Rivers wine tasting that made the day feel extra special.

To the team and board—especially Paloma Siles for her tireless behind-the-scenes legwork, Matt Clark for his welcoming work on the registration desk for the Hunter Innovation Festival, Cameron Burns for representing the board and valuing everyone's diverse contributions, and Tayla Furey for stepping up to help me with the AV—thank you all.

Our community thrives when we show up for one another. Mark your calendars for the last Friday of every month—be there or be square!