Organisers

The 2015 & 2016 UAV Challenge events were organised by the following organisations.

DATA61 | CSIRO  

http://www.data61.csiro.au

Event Co-Organiser

Data61 is Australia’s digital innovation powerhouse

The world is changing, fast. We are in the throes of shifting to a new economic structure, an evidence-based world, where data underpins our decision making. In the past two years more data was produced globally than in all of history. The volume continues to grow exponentially, resulting in massive economic and societal disruption.

At Data61, we are creating our data-driven future. By combining the expertise of the CSIRO Digital Productivity and NICTA teams, we are building the world’s leading data-focused research and innovation powerhouse. A CSIRO entity, Data61 provides a network of capabilities, addressing key growth areas for a data-focused world including: Autonomous systems, Computer vision, Data analytics, Digital economy, Machine learning, Mobile systems, Optimisation, Software systems, Wireless and networks.

QUT – Queensland University of Technology (QUT) 

http://www.qut.edu.au

http://www.arcaa.aero

Event Co-Organiser

QUT is a leading Australian university with a global reputation, based on real-world learning experiences and high-impact research. QUT graduates are among the most employable in Australia and include six Rhodes Scholars (three in the past four years).

With more than 44,000 students, QUT was ranked as Australia’s top university under 50 years old in the 2013 Times Higher Education Top 100 Under 50 rankings. QUT teachers consistently dominate national academic teaching grants and awards and helped earn QUT a global five-star rating in the 2013 QS Stars university ratings. QUT’s strong research reputation is characterised by links with industry, professions and the community, with 85 per cent of QUT’s research effort ranked world standard or above (Australian Government 2012 ERA). About 20 per cent of students are studying at postgraduate level, and 16 per cent come from overseas. Our staff and students have access to latest technology and new, world-class facilities and infrastructure.

The Australian Research Centre for Aerospace Automation (ARCAA) is a world leading QUT research centre based in Brisbane, Australia and is a co-organiser of the UAV Challenge. ARCAA conducts research into all aspects of aviation automation, developing systems and technologies to safely integrate unmanned aircraft into non-segregated air space while addressing societal, regulatory, technical and education impediment facing routine civilian operations of unmanned airborne systems.

Queensland Government 

http://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/ and

https://www.qld.gov.au/dsitia/

Supporter

The Queensland Government’s Department of Science, Information Technology and Innovation and Defence Industries Queensland, within the Department of State Development, support Queensland-based innovation.

The government is helping Queensland maintain its position as a major hub for aviation and aerospace activity, including unmanned aerial systems (UAS).

Recognising the importance of UAS development for both military and commercial use, the Queensland Government has played a prominent role in developing UAS research in Australia. It has done so through its support of the Australian Research Centre for Aerospace Automation, the Australian Association for Unmanned Systems (formerly the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems Australia), the Smart Skies initiative and Project ResQu.

The Queensland Government has also proudly supported the UAV Challenge since its inception.

Insitu Pacific 

http://insitupacific.com.au/

Platinum Sponsor

Insitu Pacific is an industry-leading provider of Unmanned Systems solutions including Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), Unattended Ground Sensors (UGS) and Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGV) to Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. Insitu Pacific provides a comprehensive set of unmanned systems, services and data products to ensure our customers achieve the tailored information solution they require.

Established in 2009 as a division of Insitu Inc. to service the needs of defence and commercial customers across the Asia-Pacific region, we are a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Company. We have the expert unmanned systems knowledge and skills required to support our customers in commercial, civil and defence markets across the region. We offer fully tailored solutions across the unmanned systems and information delivery spectrum from hardware sales and through-life support to full service packages to provide the decision making information our customers require.

Northrop Grumman 

http://www.northropgrumman.com/

Platinum Sponsor

Northrop Grumman is proud to once again sponsor the UAV Challenge. As a leading producer of unmanned systems, Northrop Grumman supports multiple education initiatives designed to create interest and opportunities for students from around the world to learn more about engineering, science and math that makes these technologies possible. Learn more about the company’s innovative systems, products and solutions in unmanned systems, cyber, C4ISR, and logistics and modernization at http://www.northropgrumman.com.

Lockheed Martin Australia 

http://www.lockheedmartin.com.au/

Platinum Sponsor

Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. Advancing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education is a critical focus for Lockheed Martin. We know firsthand the importance of educating our young people in these areas. Our future success — and our nation’s technological advantage — depend on a constant supply of highly trained, highly capable technical talent. As part of our efforts to educate and inspire tomorrow’s scientists, engineers and mathematicians, Lockheed Martin is proud to sponsor the UAV Challenge 2016.

Defence Science and Technology (DST) Group 

http://www.dsto.defence.gov.au/

Bronze Sponsor

The Defence Science and Technology (DST) Group is part of Australia’s Department of Defence. It is the second largest public-funded R&D organisation in Australia. DST Group is a national leader in safeguarding Australia by delivering valued scientific advice and innovative solutions for Defence and national security.

Australian Robotics and Automation Association (ARAA) 

http://www.araa.asn.au/

Bronze Sponsor

The Australian Robotics and Automation Association Inc. is a professional society in Australia and New Zealand that is concerned with robots, their applications and their implications, and related automation technologies. The Association organises conferences and other meetings, and serves as a focal point for Australian industry and researchers concerned with robotics and automation.

Western Downs Regional Council (WDRC) 

WDRC website – http://www.wdrc.qld.gov.au/
Tourism website – http://www.ourwesterndowns.com/

Bronze Sponsors

The Western Downs region is located 3 hours west of Brisbane and is a place where you can immerse yourself in the natural splendour of a country landscape and a relaxed style of living. The six main centres and collection of townships maintains their rich agricultural heritage whilst offering diversity and growth opportunities throughout the agricultural, manufacturing and resource industries. The region is also home to a number of iconic attractions and destinations, hosting vibrant and distinct festivals that capture our living history and country ambience.