Newsroom

September 15th 2023

Executive Chairman recognised in Australia's Top 100 Innovators Lis

The Australian Newspaper published its Top 100 Innovators list on Friday 15 September with Jefferson Harcourt, Grey Innovation Group Chairman recognised as founder and CEO of Eco Detection.

Technology Editor David Swan writes, “It’s a wild and woolly time for Australian innovation, with the ongoing tech downturn slashing company valuations and forcing lay-offs across the startup landscape, while venture capital funding has dried up amid rising interest rates. The past 12 months has seen a mix of company closures and pain, what can can be viewed as somewhat of a correction for what i think is our country’s most important sector. But that’s just one part of the story.”

Of the List, Swan writes, “Now in its third edition, it’s been more difficult that ever to whittle down the nation’s top innovators to a mere 100 people…. The list is by no means definitive – it’s not supposed to be – and besides, there are far, far more than 100 innovators across the country. But it is a snapshot of some of the most wild, provocative, ambitious things happening right now across our labs, offices and classrooms, and the people bold enough to try them.”

Jefferson is acknowledged in the Manufacturing, Hardware and Infrastructure category. The Australian writes, “The water quality monitoring technology developed by Eco Detection is world-leading, based on foundational research at the University of Tasmania. The company provides managed water monitoring solutions for NGOs, industry, government and research institutes with the purpose of helping improve the cleanliness of waterways worldwide. Eco Detection’s in-field devices negate the need for constant visits to a location and provide a more continuous flow of data, more quickly. Investors include GHD, and the company recently won a Top 10 Gold award in AuManufacturing’s 50 most innovative manufacturers campaign.

Ed Husic, Minister for Industry and Science concludes in his foreword, “This government wants to build up Australia in to the powerhouse we know it can be. Australians are innovators. We know the world can’t ignore our skill and achievements. Let’s make sure the successes of our fellow Australians are recognised by everyone here. Thanks to The List: 100 Innovators 2023 for the faith it has shown in Australian know-how, showcasing the power of our ideas and ability.”

Congratulations to Jefferson Harcourt.

Pictured: Eco Detection Board of Directors, Ross Blair-Holt, Rob Grant, Jefferson Harcourt, Antony Wyborn