July 2025 Newsletter
Robotics Australia Group
As the peak body, we advocate, connect, inform and promote and behalf of, and for our network members
Hello and welcome to our July newsletter!
We are on day 29 of the new financial year and day 210 for 2025! I hope you’re kicking goals and having a very successful year so far!
Welcome to our new network members and to our returning network members - thanks very much for your support.
Our new network members!
Kemppi - the design leader of the arc welding industry. It is committed to enhancing the quality and productivity of welding through continuous development of the welding arc. Kemppi provides advanced products, digital solutions, and services for professionals ranging from industrial welding companies to individual contractors. Usability and reliability are the guiding principles behind its products. With a highly skilled partner network spanning over 70 countries.
DroneDeploy - helps businesses to automate reality capture using drones, robots, 360 cameras and sensors – combining this data in one platform for AI-powered analysis and reporting. From aerial and ground views of construction progress to automated gauge readings and methane leak detection, DroneDeploy is shaping the future of reality capture.
MiRobot Global Pty Ltd - makes robotics accessible through affordable hardware, intuitive software, and quality education. Its MiROS platform simplifies ROS development for both learners and professionals. With global partnerships including UNSW, RoboCup, Unitree, and AgileX, the company delivers cutting-edge robot solutions for education, R&D, and industry—empowering the next generation of robotics innovators.
Coletek - A hands-on Australian R&D lab with global reach, designing and building original products, platforms, and prototypes entirely in-house across sectors such as defence, agtech, medtech, and environmental robotics. Since 2001, over 150 cutting-edge projects have been delivered by a team that combines hardware, software, mechatronics, and AI under one roof — true builders, engineers, and problem-solvers.
A big shout out to our returning network members for their continued support:
FBR - develops cutting-edge, dynamically stabilised construction robots, bringing the speed and precision of indoor robotics to outdoor, uncontrolled environments, and commercialises DST®-enabled solutions for the construction sector and beyond
LYRO Robotics - creates intelligent pick-and-place robots that redefine efficiency and precision in robotic packing for the food and household goods industry. Equipped with an advanced pattern-packing system, these robots provide a competitive advantage by enhancing consistency, throughput, and quality control in packing operations.
Manufacturing Catalyst - a boutique manufacturing and material flow advisory business operating globally. Specializes in optimising product and process design to streamline end to end value chains, leading to the implementation of sustainable manufacturing automation solutions.
Stay tuned for more updates, events, and collaborative endeavors as we continue to shape the future of robotics together - and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn for daily updates.
Best wishes,
Nicci Rossouw
Member Spotlight!
Featuring 4D Global and AE Gibson & Sons
4D Global offers expert-led GPS and GNSS training developed by Peter Terrett, a pioneer in the Australian geospatial industry. With over 3,000 professionals trained, the sessions are hands-on and practical, covering equipment use, real-world applications, and the latest advancements in GNSS. A popular one-day course on GPS Fundamentals and Field Applications focuses on positioning, navigation, and data capture—ideal for engineers, surveyors, fleet managers, emergency services, and other navigation-reliant professionals.
Rentals With 4D Global’s rental fleet, you can choose the best equipment for your specific project—backed by expert guidance to ensure you're using the right tool for the job, without the upfront commitment
Finance Need help with cash flow to meet your technology requirements? 4D Global offers flexible finance options to help you access the latest equipment and stay ahead—without compromising your budget.
Partnering with 4D Global means gaining over three decades of experience and a trusted source for innovative spatial solutions—bringing together the best products, expert advice, and hands-on support for your field operations.
AE Gibson & Sons is leading the future of timber processing by delivering high-performance sawmilling, materials handling, and automation solutions built on over a century of engineering excellence. Founded in 1896 and proudly family-owned for five generations, AE Gibson & Sons combines heritage craftsmanship with modern innovation to serve Australia's timber, engineering, and manufacturing industries.
Sawmilling & Timber Processing From log handling to final cut, AE Gibson & Sons designs and manufactures advanced sawmill machinery and associated equipment tailored to the unique needs of the Australian timber industry. Their integrated systems are built for performance, precision, and durability.
Materials Handling & General Engineering Offering robust materials handling solutions and general engineering services, AE Gibson & Sons supports heavy industries with customised equipment designed for reliability, efficiency, and safety in demanding operational environments.
Automation & Robotics Driven by innovation, AE Gibson & Sons incorporates cutting-edge automation and robotics into traditional industries—enhancing throughput, reducing manual strain, and future-proofing operations for decades to come.
Heritage, Innovation, and Trusted Support With two dedicated manufacturing centres and a proactive management team, AE Gibson & Sons delivers end-to-end service from design and fabrication to commissioning and maintenance. Their commitment to continuous improvement ensures every solution meets the highest standards of quality and client satisfaction.
Highlights from CeMat and Industrial Transformation 2025
Robotics Australia Group had a stand at CeMat and the Industrial Transformation Australia event at the Dome, Sydney Olympic Park. The event wrapped up a fantastic week of innovation and collaboration in robotics, intralogistics, materials handling and supply chain management sectors.
Our CEO Nicci Rossouw, connected with partners, industry leaders and all our network members throughout the event.
Pictured above are our network members:
Great to see all the robotic companies that attended - showcasing a growing industry in Australia!
Our CEO, Nicci Rossouw, visits OMRON HQ
Our CEO, Nicci Rossouw, met with key members of the OMRON team during her visit to OMRON’S Proof of Concept (PoC) Centre and Training Hub, situated at the Western Sydney University.
The state-of-the-art Proof of Concept (PoC) Centre and Training Hub, showcases the latest in collaborative robotics, AI, machine vision, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and machine learning. With regular technology updates and global equipment rotation, OMRON remains at the cutting edge—helping local manufacturers stay agile, efficient, and future-ready.
Contact Allan Leung if you want to visit the Hub or for more information.
Photo from left to right:
Obituary: Ben Upcroft (1976–2025)
By Dr. Sue Keay, Chair of Robotics Australia Group Board
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our colleague and friend, Ben Upcroft, who died of cancer at the age of 49. Ben is survived by his wife Lucy and their three sons.
Ben was an talented researcher, a passionate engineer, and above all, a truly kind and generous human being. He played a foundational role in the Australian Centre for Robotic Vision, where he served as a Chief Investigator and was an Associate Professor at QUT. Many of us, myself included, owe our involvement in the Centre to Ben’s influence. I was encouraged by his PhD supervisor, Professor Halina Rubinzstein-Dunlop, to speak with him when considering whether to join the Centre. A single conversation with Ben, where he displayed his warmth, insight, and genuine enthusiasm, made the decision clear. If the Centre was full of people like Ben, it was the right place to be.
During our time working together, Ben exemplified a rare balance of brilliance and humility. He was deeply committed to his family, often making time in his day to pick up his boys from care. That simple, steadfast prioritisation of what mattered most was one of the many ways Ben inspired those around him.
Ben later moved to the UK with his family to become Chief Technology Officer at Oxa (formerly Oxbotica), working alongside Paul Newman. Even from afar, his positive influence on our work and lives continued. He remained someone I looked up to, not just for his intellect, but for his integrity, warmth, and humanity.
Ben's passing is a tremendous loss. For those of us fortunate enough to know and work with him, he left a lasting legacy in the example he set as a research leader, a colleague, a mentor, a father, and a friend.
He will be deeply missed.
Pano AI Named One of TIME’s 100 Most Influential Companies of 2025
We’re thrilled to share that our network member, Pano AI has been named to TIME’s list of the 100 Most Influential Companies of 2025—a prestigious recognition of organizations leading global progress through innovation, impact, and leadership.
As wildfire threats continue to intensify around the world, Pano AI remains at the forefront of delivering cutting-edge technology that empowers emergency managers and first responders. Their early wildfire detection platform now supports thousands of fire professionals across more than 250 agencies and enterprises, actively monitoring over 30 million acres in North America and Australia.
This global recognition from TIME is not only a remarkable milestone for Pano AI, but also a powerful reflection of the impact that purpose-driven innovation and strategic partnerships can achieve.
Mirragin Announces Launch of the Mirragin Australian Drone Ecosystem (MADE)
Our network member, Mirragin Consulting, a prominent force in Australia’s drone, robotics, and AI sectors, is proud to announce the relaunch of its national coordination platform under a new identity: the Mirragin Australian Drone Ecosystem (MADE).
Designed to support and accelerate Australia’s growing drone industry, MADE serves as a trusted bridge between qualified, credentialed drone suppliers and high-priority briefs from government agencies and critical industries.
Key Benefits of Joining MADE:
MADE will officially launch in the coming days via the BenchOn platform, providing immediate access to opportunities within Australia’s critical sectors.
This initiative underscores Mirragin’s continued commitment to building a robust, connected, and responsive drone ecosystem—one that delivers fast, compliant outcomes where they matter most
Transport for NSW Launches Australia's First BVLOS Drone Operations Along Highways
Exciting news in the world of transport innovation! Transport for NSW has marked a major milestone in drone technology with the official launch of Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations along key highways in New South Wales.
Recently announced by The Honourable Jenny Aitchison, Minister for Roads, this initiative is the first of its kind in Australia. The BVLOS drone operations have officially commenced along the M1 highway from Cowan to Calga, enabling drones to fly beyond the pilot’s line of sight—offering new capabilities in highway monitoring and incident management.
This cutting-edge program has been two years in the making, and now sees drones flying parallel to and above vehicles traveling at speeds up to 110 km/h. The result? Enhanced real-time situational awareness for the Transport Management Centre, enabling faster response times and improved safety on our roads.
And the innovation doesn’t stop there.
Following the M1 launch, BVLOS drone operations are set to expand to other critical corridors, including the Hume Highway and Mt Ousley, especially in areas where CCTV coverage is limited or non-existent.
Free Online Course: Learn Cobotic Welding Fundamentals – Now Open to All QLD Residents!
Weld Australia is excited to invite you to take part in a brand-new, free micro-credential course: Fundamentals of Cobotic Welding – an online, self-paced program designed to support the future of welding and fabrication in Queensland.
This course is proudly funded by the Queensland Government, with expert content developed in partnership with Weld Australia, the Australian Cobotics Centre, BOC, and Diverseco, a network member of ours. It combines the latest industry knowledge from leaders in welding, robotics, and manufacturing to deliver high-quality training at no cost for QLD residents.
Why Enrol?
In just 2–3 hours, you’ll explore key topics including:
This course is perfect for apprentices building foundational skills, and for experienced welders eager to grow their knowledge in automation and advanced manufacturing.
Whether you're an apprentice, tradesperson, welding supervisor, workshop manager, or business owner, this course is designed to help you:
✅ Boost productivity ✅ Reduce physical strain on staff ✅ Future-proof your welding operations
Upcoming Events!
UNSW Launches Southern Hemisphere’s Largest Student-Run Robotics Competition
Exciting developments are underway at the UNSW Robotics and Mechatronics Department, a proud member of our network. The department has officially launched its 8-week Sumobots Robotics Competition — unofficially the largest student-run robotics competition in the southern hemisphere.
This year’s competition has attracted over 300 students from a range of universities and disciplines. Participants are challenged to design, build, and battle their own custom sumobots in a dynamic series of matches, all culminating in a live knockout finale on August 1.
The competition will conclude with an Industry Night Trade Show — a free and open networking opportunity where companies can meet and connect with some of the most driven and talented future engineers in the country.
What sets this initiative apart is that it is entirely extra-curricular. Students participate purely out of passion and ambition, with no course credits offered — a true testament to the dedication, teamwork, and innovation within the UNSW Mechatronic Engineering community.
Want to attend the finale or learn more? Email info@ramsocunsw.org to get in touch.
Get your tickets now for IPRAAC 2025!
As the peak body for robotics in Australia, our mission is to foster a sustainable and globally competitive robotics industry.
This partnership will:
Robotics Australia Group network members can enjoy an exclusive 10% discount on tickets to the Indo-Pacific Robotics, Autonomy, AI and Cyber Conference & Exhibition (IPRAAC 2025). As part of our Industry Knowledge Partnership, this special offer is available to continue to support the sustainable and internationally competitive robotics industry here in Australia.
Event: 7–8 October 2025 Location: Pan Pacific Perth, WA
To find out more about IPRAAC 2025, visit: https://indopacificroboticsconference.com/
Use code RAG10 at checkout to get a 10% discount.
Join Us at Melbourne Build Expo 2025 – Visit Stand J42!
We’re excited to be part of Melbourne Build Expo, the largest construction and design trade show in Victoria.
The expo will be held on 22–23 October 2025, from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), 1 Convention Centre Place, South Wharf, VIC. With over 10,000 attendees expected, the event features 300+ industry speakers across 12 summits, 175+ exhibitors, and key highlights such as the Government Hub, Architect’s Hub, live entertainment, and dedicated networking opportunities.
Come and say hello to us at Stand J42 to explore our latest solutions and connect with fellow professionals shaping the future of Australia’s built environment.
Sydney to host RSS 2026!
We’re excited to share that the Robotics: Science and Systems (RSS) Conference will be coming to Sydney in 2026, proudly hosted by the UTS Robotics Institute.
A huge congratulations to Professor Shoudong Huang for his tremendous effort in helping bring this world-class event to Australia!
RSS is widely regarded as one of the world’s top robotics conferences, showcasing cutting-edge research and high-impact contributions. After an exciting RSS 2025 in Los Angeles, the global robotics community will now set its sights on Sydney’s stunning harbour city.
RSS 2026 – Sydney Organising Committee:
General Chair: Luca Carlone Program Chair: Matei Ciocarlie
Local Arrangements Team: – Shoudong Huang – Graeme Best – Teresa Vidal Calleja – Sarath Kodagoda
Mark your calendars – RSS 2026 is set to be an unforgettable experience. Researchers, students, and industry partners from around the world are warmly invited to join the event in Sydney for a celebration of robotics excellence.
See upcoming events by clicking below.
New Episodes: Let's Talk Robotics with Matthew Dorhauer and Gautam Manoharan from Motion Solutions Australia
Tune in as Nicci Rossouw talks about the latest in robotics, innovation, and industry trends. Discover insights from one of the leading voices in the field!
Robotics in the News
Get Your Copy of the Robotics Roadmap for Australia 2025!
The Robotics Roadmap for Australia 2025 is here! Explore the latest advancements, challenges, and opportunities shaping Australia's robotics future across industries. 📌 Price: $90 including postage Secure your copy today and be part of the robotics revolution in Australia!
THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS!
Watch this space!
Follow us on LinkedIn to find out about our next events, national and international forums and more. Head to our YouTube channel to view past events.
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