Innovation Summit: Food Hubs and Vertical Farming

Innovation Summit:

Food Hubs and Vertical Farming

The Food Hubs and Vertical Farming Innovation Summit, organized by Innovate Australia, aims to spotlight sustainable agriculture advancements through the exploration of food hubs and vertical farming. This gathering invites agricultural innovators, industry experts, and entrepreneurs to engage in discussions on urban agriculture, resource optimization, and sustainable food production techniques. The summit focuses on practical applications, showcasing technological breakthroughs and fostering collaboration within the sector. As an initiative by Innovate Australia, it seeks to promote innovative practices for more effective food production and distribution, thereby contributing to environmental sustainability and enhancing community well-being. This event represents a significant opportunity for professionals to learn, network, and discover solutions that will shape the future of agriculture.

🎤Our MC/Moderator:

🔹 Peter Kasprzak, Chairman, Innovate Australia

Peter Ksprzak is the co-founder and Chairman of Innovate Australia, an organisation dedicated to fostering innovation across various sectors. He has previously served as Director and President of the Hydrogen Society of Australia and as President of the Inventors Association of Australia. Peter has organised nearly 100 events showcasing his public speaking and event management expertise. His professional journey spans Europe, the United States, and Australia, contributing to emerging technologies, the automotive industry, energy, environmental initiatives, and financial services. He has led projects like Australia’s first Electric Highway and the Zero Emission Highway project and is a member of the Royal Society of Western Australia.

🎙️ Our Presenters:

🔹 Dr Christopher Vas, General Manager, Food Innovation Precinct Western Australia

Dr Christopher Vas is the General Manager of the Food Innovation Precinct Western Australia (FIPWA), a pioneering initiative backed by over $61M from Australian and State Governments. With an 18-year career spanning business, government, and academia across Australasia and NZ, he leads the development of the Peel Business Park and fosters an ecosystem supportive of enterprises. A co-founder of FutureSafe Tech in Singapore, Dr. Vas innovates in safety training using simulation and VR technologies. Holding a PhD, an MBA, and executive education from MIT Sloan and Columbia Business School, he is a strategic leader with memberships in IoD NZ and AICD, focusing on strategy, risk management, and governance.

🔹Vincenzo Velletri, Convivium Leader, Slow Food Swan Valley and Eastern Regions Inc

Chef Vincenzo Velletri, a representative of Slow Food International, Australia, brings his deep-rooted culinary heritage to the Innovation Summit on Food Hubs and Vertical Farming. Known for his dedication to good, clean, and fair food, Chef Velletri employs traditional cooking techniques that highlight the natural flavours of ingredients, mainly through his interactive catering service, Il Paiolo. Utilising a wood-fired oven, he creates an immersive dining experience that combines the aroma and spectacle of authentic Neapolitan pizza, adhering to the standards of Italy’s Verace Pizza Napoletana Association. Join him at the summit to experience a blend of Italian culinary artistry and innovative food solutions.

🔹 James McDonald, Owner, Giving Greens

James McDonald is the founder of Giving Greens, a local business enhancing lives with nutrient-rich microgreens. With a foundation in health and fitness, James discovered the impact of nutrition and exercise early, which led him to become a personal trainer. His travels across the UK and Europe broadened his understanding of what contributes to our well-being. Holding a Bachelor of Sustainability from Edith Cowan University, James was also a 2016 WA Young Achiever Awards finalist for his contributions to low-income communities. Additionally, he runs Giving Local, an online platform promoting local artisan products, and The Giving Goods Delivery Co., a local refrigerated delivery service for small food businesses.

🔹 Michael Worthington, Director, Infrastructure Technologies

Michael Worthington is an accomplished entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in owning and operating businesses in Western Australia, where he has developed a vast network within the business and government communities. His passion for innovation has led him to specialise in patent design, and he has over 20 years of experience in the field. Michael’s expertise was recognised in 2010 when he won the coveted Telstra and AMP Innovator of the Year award. He serves as a board member for No More Homeless Inc. and is a founding director of Infrastructure Technologies, focusing on renewable energies and vertical farming. Michael views vertical farming as a transformative solution for sustainable community development, offering harvests of locally grown produce year-round and creating diverse job opportunities.

🔹 Colleen Yates, CEO, Regional Development Australia – Perth

Colleen Yates has been the CEO of Regional Development Australia – Perth since 2013, where she has spurred significant business investment and job creation. Her leadership led to the economic development strategy for Perth and Peel and the creation of the Perth DroneHub, turning innovative visions into reality. Colleen, an MBA graduate from the University of Western Australia, excels in inclusive leadership, strategic thinking, and effective communication. With a 35-year career spanning private, government, and non-profit sectors, she has demonstrated expertise in implementing change, engaging stakeholders, and simplifying complex challenges, making her a pivotal figure in fostering regional innovation and development.

The presentations will be followed by a panel discussion moderated by Peter Kasprzak.

🌟 Summit Highlights:

We hope that the Food Hubs and Vertical Farming Innovation Summit participants leave equipped with fresh insights and actionable strategies for advancing sustainable agricultural practices. Through engaging discussions, demonstrations of groundbreaking technologies, and networking opportunities, the event catalysed collaborations that promise to drive forward the fields of urban agriculture and food sustainability. Innovate Australia successfully created a platform where practical solutions met innovation, setting the stage for future developments in food production that prioritise efficiency, sustainability, and community health. The summit showcased the potential of food hubs and vertical farming and solidified a community committed to redefining the agricultural landscape.

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