ECU, as main sponsor of the event, showcased a number of initiatives, including the IGNIS partnership.
Edith Cowan University played a leading role in bringing the future of robotics and space exploration to Western Australia, as the main partner of Robopalooza 2025 - a two-day festival of innovation, learning and community fun held at the Australian Automation and Robotics Precinct (AARP) in Neerabup.
The event held on 5 and 6 October, drew students, families, industry leaders and global innovators into an immersive celebration of technology and discovery. With live music provided by WAAPA students, food trucks and a festival atmosphere, Robopalooza offered something for everyone, from curious kids to seasoned engineers.
NASA-led STEM activities were on show
Festivalgoers had the chance to get hands-on with cutting-edge robotics, including remotely operating a robot in an advanced space robotics competition hosted in collaboration with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). STEM outreach activities inspired younger visitors, while interactive industry demonstrations and breakaway sessions from ECU and partner organisations added depth and diversity to the program.
The festival also featured a high-energy start-up pitch battle, robotics showcases from international teams, and cultural outreach activities from the University of Hawai‘i, making the weekend both globally connected and uniquely local.
Minister for Science and Innovation, Hon Stephen Dawson MLC, attended the industry event.
On the second day of the event, the ECU Robotics team beat out 11 other teams, from eight countries, to take the win in the robotics competition. The competition saw the teams remotely operate a mobile robot through an obstacle course, with a time limit of 30 minutes. The timing and overall monitoring of the competition was provided by a jury selected by the competition chairperson.
With its mix of global expertise, hands-on learning and festival fun, Robopalooza 2025 has left a lasting impression, cementing ECU's role at the heart of Western Australia's space and robotics future.
Professor Paulo de Souza was one of the keynote speakers on both days of the event.
