Wagga Wagga resident, Michael Nixon, 14, has taken out first place for his innovative and educational business idea, The Amazing Annoyatron, after pitching against four other New South Wales finalists at tonight’s Australia Post Regional Pitchfest state final in Dubbo.
The Amazing Annoyatron is a fun and affordable educational kit designed to introduce kids and teens to electronics and coding. Michael was awarded the $5,000 first prize and the opportunity to represent New South Wales in August at the national gala event in his hometown of Wagga Wagga.
“I’m overwhelmed to have won tonight and Australia post Regional Pitchfest is so valuable for regional start-ups like mine,” he said.
“This has already been an incredible journey to make great new contacts, gain practical experience and build momentum to keep the business moving forward.”
Michael also received the Community Choice Award, which was voted for by the audience on the night and takes home an additional $1,500.
“Michael’s pitch was a wonderful reflection of what people from regional areas can accomplish when given the opportunity,” said founder of Regional Pitchfest, Dianna Somerville.
“We’ve attracted some outstanding examples of regional innovation and I can’t wait to see all the state winners at the national finals on 18 August in Wagga Wagga.”
Second place was awarded to JAR Aerospace with Lake Macquarie locals Lochie Burke, Jack Cullen, Sam Lewinson and Daniel Moscaritolo taking home $3,500 for their pioneering technology which provides safe, high performing aerial solutions for a number of industries.
The winner of the national Australia Post Regional Pitchfest final will win $7,500 plus a trip to Silicon Valley, California, and an Australia Post e-commerce Business Growth Pack.
The Australia post Regional Pitchfest is run in partnership with the Melbourne Accelerator Program at The University of Melbourne.
More information on the national finals gala event is available at regionalpitchfest.com