AN END to telephone numbers and broadcast television were among the visions of a not-so-distant future, as experts discussed Peel’s place in an all-digital world.
A presentation entitled, “Peel’s Digital Future”, took place at the Mandurah Quay last Thursday.
Head of Explore Digital Futures, David Bartlett and CSIRO’s business development officer, Geof Heydon presented on the importance of the Peel region in the technological age.
Part of Peel’s potential is its agriculture and local councils were urged to partner with technology magnate CSIRO, a science body that develops digital equipment to use in the agricultural industry.
CSIRO would look to create a global market identity for Peel through the use of computerised farming systems.
Mr Heydon said digital environment sensors had already been trialed in Tasmania and had enabled farmers to work in optimum conditions to get the best out of their produce, creating a boom in the state’s economy.
Peel Development Commission executive Melissa Teede said a plan for the collaboration was already underway.
“We are looking at the diversity of the economy here and we’re looking at the agricultural sector for investment.
“The Peel region is looking to become competitive globally and we are looking forward to working closely with CSIRO.”
Head of Explore Digital Futures (EDF), David Bartlett said he was impressed with the speedy development of digital projects in the area and said companies like CSIRO and EDF could increase employment.
“What it will do for a community like Peel is build skills and open opportunities, including employment opportunities,” he said.
Mr Bartlett said the Federal Government was publishing a digital economy report imminently, which would demonstrate how the country fits into a worldwide digital landscape.
Councillor Rhys Williams, who is chairman of Peel’s Digital Future Network, otherwise known as iPeel, thanked the expert panel and stressed the need for Peel to partner with companies like CSIRO.
