Drone forum a flying success
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28 September 2018
Loren Otto, co-founder of AirBorn Insight and one of the Forum’s presenters, demonstrates aerial mapping and surveying techniques with his drone.
A record-breaking number of drone-enthusiasts from across Australia descended into Dalby on Tuesday for the second biennial Dalby Drone Industry Forum.
Over 300 guests attended to harness the latest in UAV technology, with drone presentations, demonstrations and exhibitions by some of Australia’s leading industry experts.
Not only limited to conventional aviation uses, the potential for drones across agriculture, mining, energy and emergency services were a hot topic of discussion — even drone-delivered burritos look to be an everyday reality in the near-future.
CEO of Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific eNews Rob Rich was impressed by the content and timeliness of the Forum.
“The Dalby Drone Industry Forum has set the standard for regional drone events in Australia,” he said.
“Its presentations, professional organisation and range of activities, evidenced by the number of delegates from across Australia, have established it as a truly national event serving the growth and thirst for information about how drones now play a significant role across a number of industries.”
Spokesperson for Economic Development Councillor Donna Ashurst said that the Dalby Drone Industry Forum provided the perfect opportunity to delve deeper into the potential of drones in the Western Downs.
A number of exhibitors also attended the Forum, showcasing the latest in drone technology.
“With our unimpeded airspace and flat open plains, the Western Downs is uniquely positioned for the use of drones,” she said.
“The region has a huge capacity for drone innovation, and we’ve already seen success across a range of local industries — whether it be crop monitoring and spraying, soil and field analysis, or inspections and mapping, drones are being used every day in the Western Downs and it’s exciting to see a glimpse into the future of this technology.
“It’s estimated that the global market value of commercial drone applications is worth more than $127 billion, so to be involved in the front-line of this drone revolution is really exciting.
“With the success of the Forum, the Western Downs has well and truly cemented its position as Queensland’s Home of Drones.”
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Media Contact: Madison Imhoff | Communications Officer | 0419 940 846