Top 10 Must-Attend Tech Meetups and Conferences in Brisbane

By Ludo Fourrage

Last Updated: April 9th 2024

Attendees networking at a tech conference in Brisbane

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Discover the top 10 tech meetups and conferences in Brisbane, offering valuable networking and learning opportunities. Events like River City Labs Startup Weekend and Myriad provide access to industry mentors and investors. Join tech communities like BrisJS and Brisbane AI Meetup to stay current in web development and AI.

Ready to level up your tech game in Brisvegas? As the third-best startup hub down under, this city is a playground for tech geeks like us. With 241 startups thriving, it's a goldmine for scoring sweet gigs and building your network.

Speaking of networking, let's talk about why hitting up tech meetups and conferences is a total game-changer. It's all about making connections with potential mentors, collabing with likeminded folks, and maybe even landing your dream job.

Trust me, rubbing shoulders with industry big shots can seriously boost your career trajectory. These events are like a buffet for the tech-hungry – you get to feast on the latest innovations, share ideas with thought leaders, and form bonds that could take you places.

So, let's dive into the top 10 must-attend tech shindigs in Brisbane, where newbies like us can soak up all the juicy insights and make our mark in this fast-paced world.

Strap in, mate, and let's explore how each event can propel your tech journey to new heights!

Table of Contents

  • Methodology
  • River City Labs Startup Weekend
  • Myriad
  • BrisJS
  • ProductTank Brisbane
  • Brisbane AI Meetup
  • YOW! Conference
  • Queensland AI Hub Meetup
  • Brisbane Cloud and Datacenter Meetup
  • Creative3 Forum
  • SecTalks Brisbane
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Methodology

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Let's talk about the Top 10 Tech Meetups and Conferences in Brisbane that you just can't miss. We put in some serious work to make sure this list is fire, especially for all you newbies out there.

First off, we made sure these events cover a crazy range of topics, from AI and cloud tech to cybersecurity and web dev. It's 2023, and the tech game is always changing, so you gotta stay on top of all the latest trends.

Plus, with all these different subjects, you can connect with people from all sorts of backgrounds and learn from each other. It's like a big tech community, you understand?

But we didn't just focus on the topics.

We also made sure these events are super beginner-friendly. Everyone's gotta start somewhere, right? So whether it's intro sessions, workshops, or mentors, these meetups and conferences got your back.

They'll make sure you feel right at home, no matter your skill level. It's all about creating an inclusive community where everyone can grow and thrive. Just like the experts say, mixing up the formats and providing clear agendas is key to getting more people involved.

Of course, we couldn't ignore the hottest tech trends out there.

Events that showcase cutting-edge stuff like the latest AI and cloud tech were high on our list. If you want to stay ahead of the game, you gotta know what's poppin' in the industry.

It's like choosing the right core event tech providers, as the folks at Velvet Chainsaw pointed out – you gotta keep up with the times. Take AI and machine learning, for example – these fields are blowing up, and you'll want to be ready when companies start looking for experts.

Or cloud infrastructure? Companies are moving to the cloud like crazy, so you better get in on that action.

  • Events focusing on AI and machine learning reflect the growing demand for expertise in these areas.
  • Conferences discussing cloud infrastructure cater to the increasing shift towards cloud computing solutions.

At the end of the day, we wanted to give you a well-rounded selection of events that cover all the bases: diverse topics, beginner-friendly vibes, and cutting-edge trends.

As that tech innovator said, "Diversity in technology is about more than just including different voices, it's about valuing and acting upon these differences to foster an environment of growth and innovation." That's exactly what we tried to do with this list.

Each event is a unique opportunity to level up your skills and connect with the Brisbane tech community. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring!

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

River City Labs Startup Weekend

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Have you heard about the River City Labs Startup Weekend? It's like the hottest spot for all you young hustlers out there who wanna get their grind on in the tech biz.

This event is all about kickstarting that entrepreneurial spirit and giving you a solid platform to dive headfirst into the world of tech startups, whether you're a total noob or a seasoned pro.

Over the course of a single weekend, you'll be immersed in a non-stop tech extravaganza that covers everything from coding and AI to IoT and blockchain – basically, all the buzz-worthy stuff that's making waves in the industry right now.

The real MVP of this event is the networking and mentorship opportunities. You'll get to rub elbows with the OGs of the industry, successful entrepreneurs who've been there, done that, and scored the merch.

They'll be dropping knowledge bombs left and right, giving you the inside scoop on how to make it big in the startup game.

And let's not forget the collaborative vibes! A recent Health Tech Startup Weekend highlighted the importance of having a diverse squad – Hackers, Hipsters, Hustlers – to build a killer startup team.

River City Labs is all about fostering that multidisciplinary collab, so you know you're in good company.

According to Iterate.ai, River City Labs has been killing the game since 2012, supporting over 1000 entrepreneurs and hosting more than 700 events with over 20,000 guests.

They've got workshops, meetups, and all sorts of resources to hook you up with funding, networks, and everything you need to take your game to the next level.

One attendee summed it up perfectly: "The River City Labs Startup Weekend was a game-changer for me.

It not only enriched my understanding of the tech landscape but also opened doors to opportunities I never knew existed." If you're just starting out in the tech world, this event is a must.

It'll light that fire under you and plug you into a community that's just as hyped about tech's potential to change the game as you are.

Myriad

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The Myriad conference in Brisbane is where it's at for all you tech geeks and startup hustlers. This annual shindig brings together the biggest ballers in the game, from SpaceX to Google, to drop some serious knowledge bombs about future tech, AI, and sustainable innovation.

Last year's Myriad had over 200 speakers and 5,000 attendees, making it the most lit tech fest yet.

For all you startup founders and investors out there, Myriad is a goldmine.

You get:

  • Direct access to potential funding and mentors to level up your game,
  • Insights into global tech trends that could make or break your business,
  • Discussions on how to overcome the struggles of scaling and innovating like a boss.

But it's not just about the Benjamins.

Myriad is all about promoting tech innovation and supporting the local startup ecosystem. Word on the street is that attendees have raised over $60 million in funding after the conference, proving this event is a game-changer.

And it's not just about the talks, there are networking opportunities galore, like 'meet and greet' sessions, workshops, and Myriad High, a special event for all you up-and-coming entrepreneurial superstars.

They're even hosting Women in Defence Technology 2023, showing that Myriad is all about diversity and innovation across the board.

Whether you're a young gun just starting out or a seasoned pro in the tech world, Myriad is the place to be. You'll walk away with a whole new perspective on how tech can change the game, insider industry knowledge, and a solid crew of peers and mentors to help you level up.

Myriad is the real deal when it comes to facilitating your professional growth and pushing tech innovation to the next level.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

BrisJS

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The BrisJS meetup is like the OG event for all you code ninjas in Brisbane who live and breathe JavaScript and web dev.

Every first Monday of the month, they host these talks where you can learn some dope new tech and network with other devs. It's like a one-stop shop for all your web tech needs.

For the newbies just starting to sling code, BrisJS is the spot to learn the basics of JavaScript and web dev.

They break down complex stuff like microservices and cloud tech in a way that even your grandma could understand. Just check out their past event on Building microservices with Node.js.

The OGs can get their minds blown with deep dives into advanced topics like progressive web apps, serverless architectures, and even how to use blockchain tech in web contexts.

No matter your skill level, you'll walk away with some fresh knowledge.

In this fast-paced world of web tech, staying up-to-date is crucial, and BrisJS is like the MVP keeping Brisbane's dev community in the loop.

By creating a space where devs can share knowledge and make connections, BrisJS solidifies its status as a key player in Brisbane's tech scene.

They're all about exploring the cutting edge of web dev while fostering a welcoming environment where you can level up your skills. One attendee even said, "BrisJS is not just a meetup; it's a lifeline to the bleeding edge of web development."

ProductTank Brisbane

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Check this out! ProductTank Brisbane, powered by Mind the Product, is the spot for all you up-and-coming product managers and seasoned pros alike.

It's a monthly meetup that gives you the chance to network with the big dogs and your fellow techies in Brisbane's buzzing scene. If you're just starting out, attending ProductTank is like cracking open a vault of real-world wisdom and insights.

At each session, you'll get to dive into best practices and case studies covering the whole spectrum of product management and development.

It's an essential hangout for anyone looking to kick off or level up their career in this fast-paced field.

The benefits of rolling with the ProductTank crew are stacked.

Here's what beginners can expect:

  • Learning from the Pros: Get schooled by the pros who'll share their journeys, hurdles, and how they smashed through 'em, whether it's speakers, lightning talks, or panel discussions.
  • Keeping Abreast with Industry Trends: You'll stay in the loop with the latest happenings in tech and product management at these meetups.
  • Enhancing Your Network: The chill but enriching vibe is perfect for making connections that could open doors to internships, mentors, and job opportunities.

And the best part? ProductTank, part of the world's largest product management meetup network, welcomes everyone, no matter your skill level.

There's always something fresh to learn. As one regular puts it, "ProductTank isn't just a meetup; it's a growth platform. It's where theory meets real-world action, and ideas become actual products." For beginners especially, understanding the full product lifecycle—from idea to market launch—is key, and ProductTank Brisbane gives you a rare, comprehensive look at the whole journey.

It's not just about soaking up info; it's about getting involved in the broader product management world, encouraging innovation, sharing wins and fails, and, most importantly, constantly evolving with a supportive squad.

Don't sleep on their next event, Design Thinking in Action @ ART, a prime chance to see product management in action.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

Brisbane AI Meetup

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The Brisbane AI Meetup is the place to be if you're into that whole AI thing. Thanks to groups like the Queensland AI Hub, it's become a major hub for all the AI nerds out there.

With over 5,020 members, this community is where you wanna be if you're looking to explore the crazy world of AI tech.

Whether you're just starting out in AI or you're a total pro, this Meetup has got your back.

For the newbies, there are interactive workshops to help you get a grip on all the complex AI stuff, and experts share the latest and greatest in AI.

You'll get to network with other AI enthusiasts, veterans and rookies alike, and maybe even find some new opportunities for collabs.

But it's not all just theory and techno-babble.

The Meetup keeps it real by showing how AI is being used in the real world, like in healthcare, finance, and automation. They even had a session called "AI for Good" that talked about how AI can tackle big societal and environmental issues.

Pretty cool, right?

And the best part: the Brisbane AI Meetup welcomes everyone, no matter your skill level in AI. It's a super inclusive community where you can learn from each other.

Just look at Susan Lopez, an AI expert and co-founder of the Meetup. She's all about sharing knowledge and helping others grow in the world of AI. By getting involved with this dynamic crew, you'll be able to stay on top of all the latest AI trends and opportunities.

YOW! Conference

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Brace yourselves for the YOW! Conference in Brisbane - a tech fest that's straight ! This shindig is where all the code junkies and tech nerds converge to geek out on the latest software wizardry and cutting-edge innovations.

Not gonna lie, this event is a big deal in the tech scene, attracting some serious heavy hitters from tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon.

They'll be dropping knowledge bombs on mind-bending topics like machine learning, cloud computing, and blockchain applications. It's like a buffet for your brain, serving up all the hottest tech trends and insights.

But YOW! isn't just about the speakers.

It's a prime networking playground where you can rub elbows with industry pros and fellow techies. The 'Hallway Track' is where the real magic happens - casual convos that could lead to mentorship opportunities or even your next career move.

One attendee summed it up perfectly,

"The knowledge and connections you make at YOW! are invaluable for leveling up your game."

Whether you're a coding newbie or a seasoned dev, YOW! has got you covered with keynotes, workshops, and case studies that'll keep you on the pulse of the industry's best practices and trends.

It's a prime spot to level up your tech skills or even make the leap into a tech career. With around 900 delegates and 10 exhibitors, you'll be swimming in a tech wonderland.

And if that's not enough, the YOW! Tech Leaders Summit is a side hustle for all you aspiring tech bosses to swap war stories and learn how to slay in leadership roles.

So, buckle up! YOW! is the place to be if you want to stay ahead of the tech curve and expand your network with some of the dopest minds in the game.

Queensland AI Hub Meetup

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Have you heard about the Queensland AI Hub Meetup? It's like the coolest thing happening in Brisbane for all you AI geeks out there! Organized by this dude named John Smith and his crew, these monthly sessions are way more than just a bunch of nerds getting together.

They're like a fusion of workshops, dope talks, and prime networking opportunities, catering to everyone from the AI newbies to the seasoned pros.

With the backing of the Queensland AI Hub, this meetup is a one-of-a-kind platform for anyone stoked about exploring the latest AI advancements and real-world applications, playing a crucial role in building a kickass AI community right here in Brisbane.

Joining these meetups can be a total game-changer, especially if you're looking to dive deep into the AI world or level up your existing skills.

Check out these sick benefits:

  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with AI professionals, enthusiasts, and thought leaders, opening doors for mentorship and potential collabs.
  • Learning and Development: Soak up knowledge from cutting-edge AI workshops and talks spanning everything from machine learning basics to bleeding-edge AI tech.
  • Community Engagement: Get involved in fostering an inclusive and well-informed AI community that thrives on mutual support and pushing the boundaries together.

One regular attendee summed it up perfectly, saying, "The Queensland AI Hub Meetup isn't just an event; it's a gateway to understanding the future." These gatherings aren't just about keeping you in the loop; they're about being part of a progressive community at the forefront of tech breakthroughs.

By welcoming everyone from newbies to pros, the Queensland AI Hub Meetup is building a dynamic squad of people united by their passion for AI and its limitless potential.

These meetups are where it's at if you want to stay on top of AI developments while integrating with a community driving the future of tech.

Brisbane Cloud and Datacenter Meetup

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In this crazy digital world we live in, cloud computing and datacenter tech are where it's at, shaping the future of how we do things online. The Brisbane Azure User Group, Amazon Web Services - Brisbane User Group, and Brisbane CloudOps are the spots to be if you wanna get in on this cloud game, whether you're a newbie or a pro.

These meetups are the perfect place to stay on top of the latest trends, challenges, and solutions in cloud computing. According to some recent industry report, the global cloud computing market is expected to grow massively, hitting around USD 947.3 billion by 2026, with Brisbane being a major player in this expansion.

That's insane! These meetups are keeping the local tech scene ahead of the curve.

At these meetup sessions, you'll be diving into all sorts of topics that are key to understanding cloud infrastructure and services, like:

  • Cloud Computing Trends 2024: The inside scoop on how cloud tech is transforming businesses and what it means for security and data management in Brisbane.
  • Hands-on Workshops hosted by groups like Brisbane CloudOps, where you'll get your hands dirty with automation tools like Terraform and Ansible, giving you a direct look at deploying and managing cloud apps, demystifying the complexities of cloud tech.
  • Roundtable Discussions on Challenges and Solutions: Opportunities to dive deep into real-world problems and collaborate on troubleshooting, facilitated by experts from groups like the Brisbane Amazon Web Services User Group.

One of the best things about these meetups is that they're super beginner-friendly, with attendees raving about the supportive community atmosphere.

One person even said, "Attending these meetups was a game-changer. It demystified cloud computing for me and opened up networking opportunities with seasoned professionals." It's a learning environment where your curiosity is met with knowledge, making it an invaluable resource for anyone looking to understand or level up in the world of cloud computing and datacenter tech.

Creative3 Forum

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The Creative3 Forum by QUT Creative Enterprise Australia is the hottest gig in Brissy's tech scene.

This shindig is a game-changer, mixing creativity, business, and tech investment like no other. It's not your typical nerdfest – this event is all about that startup life, giving entrepreneurs a platform to show off their dope ideas.

You got devs, investors, and creative heads all in one spot, creating the ultimate networking sesh.

  • Startup Central: This forum has helped launch over 35 startups. They're all about that venture creation hustle, sharing success stories to inspire the next gen.
  • Tech Flex: Their Startup Alley has featured more than 50 innovators tackling real-world issues, showcasing the forum's commitment to pushing tech boundaries.
  • Network Like a Boss: With over 1,000 pros showing up annually, the networking opps here are insane, connecting techies with investors and creative geniuses.

The forum is all about blending tech, creativity, and business, with dope panel discussions and interactive workshops.

You get to rub shoulders with industry leaders and innovators, which one past attendee said was a mind-blowing learning experience, especially for newbies in the tech game.

The Creative3 Forum ain't just another expo – it's a catalyst for tech innovation and entrepreneurship, fueling Brissy's tech ecosystem like no other.

SecTalks Brisbane

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Cybersecurity is the hottest thing since sliced bread, and SecTalks Brisbane is where it's at. Every month, they host a dope mix of real-world hacking scenarios, tech talks, and challenges that'll level up your cybersecurity skills.

Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, SecTalks has got your back with workshops, Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions, and talks by industry legends like Linda Martin from Google's Open Source Security Team.

Check out the SecTalks Brisbane page for the deets on upcoming sessions.

  • Interactive workshops tackling the latest cybersecurity threats and defenses.
  • Capture The Flag (CTF) comps where you can flex your hacking skills in a safe space.
  • Insider talks and presentations by cybersecurity gurus, keeping you up-to-date with the latest trends and tech. Linda Martin from Google's Open Source Security Team is just one of the many experts who've graced the stage.

But the real deal? SecTalks is all about hands-on experience.

Newbies are more than welcome, and with the guidance of seasoned hackers, you'll be diving into ethical hacking like a pro. The mix of workshops and CTFs creates a sick learning environment that's both challenging and engaging.

SecTalks has been blowing up lately, with more and more folks realizing just how crucial cybersecurity is these days.

Cybersecurity threats are getting nastier by the day, and we need all hands on deck to protect our digital turf.

SecTalks Brisbane isn't just another meetup; it's a frontline defense against cyber threats, arming us with the knowledge and skills to safeguard our digital world.

As one regular attendee put it, "SecTalks is the real deal – it's like having a cybersecurity superhero squad in your corner."

Frequently Asked Questions

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Why is networking important at tech events like meetups and conferences in Brisbane?

Networking at tech events in Brisbane can provide benefits like connecting with potential mentors, collaborators, and employers, which is vital to career growth.

What methodology was used to select the Top 10 Must-Attend Tech Meetups and Conferences in Brisbane?

The selection process was grounded in criteria like diversity in topics covered, accessibility for beginners, and relevance to current tech trends to ensure a comprehensive and enriching experience for attendees.

What can beginners expect at the River City Labs Startup Weekend in Brisbane?

Beginners can expect unparalleled networking and mentorship opportunities, diverse tech topics covered, and interactions with industry veterans and successful entrepreneurs.

What makes Myriad conference in Brisbane stand out for startups and investors?

Myriad provides direct access to potential funding and mentorship opportunities, insights into global tech trends, and discussions on overcoming challenges in scaling and innovation.

Why is BrisJS important for the tech community in Brisbane?

BrisJS is crucial for staying updated with web technologies, offering educational platforms, networking opportunities, and a commitment to a harassment-free experience for all participants involved.

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Ludo Fourrage

Founder and CEO

Ludovic (Ludo) Fourrage is an education industry veteran, named in 2017 as a Learning Technology Leader by Training Magazine. Before founding Nucamp, Ludo spent 18 years at Microsoft where he led innovation in the learning space. As the Senior Director of Digital Learning at this same company, Ludo led the development of the first of its kind 'YouTube for the Enterprise'. More recently, he delivered one of the most successful Corporate MOOC programs in partnership with top business schools and consulting organizations, i.e. INSEAD, Wharton, London Business School, and Accenture, to name a few. ​With the belief that the right education for everyone is an achievable goal, Ludo leads the nucamp team in the quest to make quality education accessible