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2025 AI Leadership across Queensland announced

The QLD AI Hub brings business, government and research together through AI programs and events.

What’s happening?

The Queensland AI Hub unveiled the newly appointed Chapter Directors who will lead the state-wide Chapters program.

These individuals will drive AI/ML initiatives, fostering innovation and collaboration in regional communities across Queensland.

Why it matters?

This announcement highlights Queensland’s growing commitment to advancing AI technologies and their applications.

By empowering local leaders, the Queensland AI Hub aims to connect businesses, educational institutions, and communities, ensuring that AI adoption thrives statewide and enhances economic growth.

Local Impact: Townsville

Townsville Chapter Director Dr. Dianna Hardy, a Senior Lecturer and researcher at James Cook University, brings extensive expertise and a commitment to fostering innovation in the region. Dr. Hardy’s focus includes:

  • Leveraging machine learning in real-world industry and community projects.
  • Strengthening Townsville’s position as a regional hub for AI innovation.
  • Collaborating with local businesses, researchers, and educational institutions to foster the adoption of AI.
  • Empowering the community with AI literacy and tools to unlock new opportunities in industries such as education, healthcare, and logistics.
Dr. Dianna Hardy, Senior Lecturer and researcher at James Cook University

By the Numbers

  • Nine regional hubs: Representing cities like Gold Coast, Brisbane, Logan, Cairns, Bundaberg, Sunshine Coast, Toowoomba, Townsville and Mackay, the Chapters span Queensland to foster wide-scale AI engagement.
  • Diverse leadership: Each Chapter Director brings a unique skill set, including AI consulting, robotics, SaaS innovation, and strategic communication.
  • Statewide collaborations: From managing coworking spaces like Mackay’s Split Spaces to leading government-backed projects in Cairns, these Directors embody Queensland’s multi-sectoral AI strategy.

Zoom In

Dr. Hardy’s leadership emphasizes collaborative and impactful projects. Her work bridges the gap between research and practical applications, ensuring local businesses and communities effectively leverage AI technologies.

Her efforts address Townsville’s unique challenges while unlocking opportunities in areas such as smart agriculture, resource management, and advanced education technologies.

Zoom Out

The Townsville Chapter is part of the Queensland AI Hub’s broader strategy to create an inclusive, state-wide AI ecosystem. This initiative aligns with global trends in regional innovation, empowering communities to thrive in the evolving AI-driven economy.

What to Look For Next?

Under Dr. Hardy’s leadership, the Townsville Chapter will launch AI literacy workshops, industry partnerships, and collaborative research initiatives in 2025. These efforts will empower businesses and individuals to embrace AI and unlock new growth opportunities.

Photo courtesy of Queensland AI Hub

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