Sydney’s proposed new zoo in Australia will take technology to a whole new level when it opens in late 2017, using a number of new technologies from startups to create a "technologically-enabled experience” for both patrons and residents of the upcoming attraction.
The zoo is hosting a “hackathon” on Friday as part of Western Sydney University’s LaunchPad programme, which will focus on technology, animal conservation and welfare, and immersive displays.
The event will feature a host of people from university experts and private sector startups, with the crowd-sourced hackathon aimed at generating a range of new ideas which utilise new technology for an engaging experience.
Some of the most interesting innovations, according to a senior manager of the LaunchPad programme, could come on the animal care and conservation front.
"It could be limiting the amount of human interaction by using drones for feeding or cleaning for example," said Wright, speaking to
Mashable Australia.
Experts will be on-hand at the event to highlight the characteristics and habits of each animal and how they would interact with each technology, while for visitors suggestions include augmented reality displays and holograms.
The zoo in the Western Sydney Parklands at Bungarribee, covers 165,000sq m (40.7 acres) and would house up to 500 animals. John Burgess, managing director of Sydney Zoo and founder of Sydney Aquarium, announced plans for the attraction in September 2015, which is expected to draw around 745,000 visitors each year.
A Development Application has been lodged with NSW Planning & Environment and is currently open to public submission. According to Australia’s environment minister Mark Speakman, the zoo will boost Sydney’s economy by AU$45m (US$31.5m, €27.9m, £20.3m) annually with 120 full-time jobs created.
The hackathon will be held on the 8 April at the university's LaunchPad facility at the Werrington Park Corporate Centre.
