5 Days of Innovation: 5 Days Committee

	Darren Alexander Chief Executive Officer Autech I was inspired to celebrate the innovation I see across all sectors in Tasmania after hearing a speech by Premier Bartlett where he talked about the importance of innovation to business. As a Launceston based Tasmanian small businessman and active participant in a number of small business committees, I am passionate about the achievements of Tasmanian companies and their potential, and my vision is for this festival to become a signature event of the Innovation Festival nationally. Tasmania is an island of innovation, and the creative and entrepreneurial spirit of innovation is flourishing in the North, which made it an ideal setting for the launch breakfast and the location of the inaugural festival May 2010.
	Polly McGee Business Development Manager, Research Office Commercialisation Unit University of Tasmania Innovation is an integral part of my work and mindset, I think it is fundamental to economic growth and change. Tasmania is undoubtedly an island of immense innovation across myriad sectors, and I am constantly excited by the amazing minds roaming around this state. When Darren suggested the 5 Days of Innovation Festival I was pumped to be part of it, and can’t wait to showcase the many exciting innovations and innovators in the North of the State and surrounds. I believe this festival will have a proud place on the Tasmanian events calendar along with 10 Days on the Island and Festivale in years to come
	Amanda Castray Department of Economic Development, Tourism and the Arts Innovation is known to be a key driver of productivity for the Tasmanian economy. Tasmania’s innovative people and companies flourish best in a culture of collaboration. The ‘5 Days of Innovation’ offers Tasmanians great opportunities to collaborate and learn, celebrate successes, and prosper. I am excited to be working with entrepreneur and technology innovator Darren Alexander and our fellow sponsors to support Tasmanian businesses build their capacity to innovate and celebrate the economic and lifestyle benefits for our beautiful state.
	Launceston City Council Launceston has blazed an impressive path through the innovation space over the last hundred years. Today the City is looking forward to the significant role we believe innovation can play in our economy. Council is certain that the ‘Five Days of Innovation’ Festival will make a major contribution to seeding and nurturing this innovation space, both in the private and public sector, across Northern Tasmania. We believe Darren’s vision to create a festival inspired, driven and primarily ‘owned’ by private enterprise is a ‘recipe for success’. Leading thought and championing action in innovation are objectives Council shares and is pursuing with vigour to support a future full of promise and energy for generations to come