Resource Links
Smart Precinct North Queensland (SPNQ)
The go-to experts in supporting the North Queensland Innovation Eco-system. De-risking our local community and economy, ensuring spend is minimised and profit maximized through fostering a lean way of thinking, while leaning forward. Established in 2019, Smart Precinct NQ is a not-for-profit organisation that provides a space for businesses and entrepreneurs physically, online and as a network to learn and grow.
SPNQ provide a range of services and programs to support businesses depending on where they are in their journey from start-up accelerators and incubator programs, business growth advisory services, investment support, events and supporting with communities to develop opportunities and skills.
Website: https://spnq.org/
Facebook Groups
MixHaus MakerSpace
Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mixhaus/
Townsville CNC and 3D printing
Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/276128870779688
Tinkercad worldwide users
Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/524132081688762
3D printing
https://www.facebook.com/groups/482533505156388
Facebook Support Businesses
https://www.towardsbetter.com.au/
Towards Better is a social enterprise and a boutique training and community development consultancy based in Townsville, Queensland.
https://daktech.com.au/maker-space-bookings/
DakTech is a Townsville-based ICT (Information and Communications Technology) Managed Services provider. They operate Townsville's only community and local business accessible, Innovation Hub. Amazing crew!
https://www.atlassoils.com.au/
Jason and the boys, are a collaboration of three local businesses that are driven to improve soil abundance and resource efficiency in the Townsville landscape.
Free Online Digital Tooling
https://www.tinkercad.com/ - Shapes based computer aided design program, great for entry level digital design and can output an STL file for 3D printing. Mastering this can get you designing your own unique designs, or modify/remix them from the likes of Thingiverse to make it something special to 3D print.
https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/personal - Industry level computer aided design program, with the personal licence being free for Makers with an email address. Mastering this will get you moving towards a draftsman, or CAD designer within the manufacturing sector.
https://www.imag-r.com/ - Laser etching online image editing and preparation tool with free limited uploads (change VPN location to get more uploads)
https://www.inventables.com/pages/easel - Rotary CNC engraving/routing tool with free basic features.
3D Model Repositories
https://www.thingiverse.com/ - Owned by Ultimaker
https://www.printables.com/ - Owned by Prusa
https://makerworld.com/en - Owned by Bambu Labs
https://cults3d.com/en - Mix of free and paid models
https://cults3d.com/en/licenses - 3D Model Design Licensing Information
3D Printer Slicer Programs
https://help.prusa3d.com/article/install-prusaslicer_1903 - Prusa Slicer
https://ultimaker.com/software/ultimaker-cura/ - Ultimaker Cura Slicer
https://bambulab.com/en/download/studio - Bambu Labs Slicer
Generative AI Tools
https://www.midjourney.com/home
Simple Machines Used in Cars: Lessons and Activities (Thanks Eric:)
https://www.speedwaymotors.com/Info/Simple-Machines-Used-in-Cars-Lessons-and-Activities
The Controller Project
The Controller Project has been supplying free controller modifications to gamers with disabilities or limb differences for over 10 years. Our mission is to design and 3D-print affordable solutions that help to remove barriers that prevent people from playing video games.
The Controller Project would not be possible without the global volunteer network that helps us design, 3D-print, and deliver mods to gamers around the world.
If you have a disability and need help producing a design to support your needs. We have a support network that can assist so please send us a message through this website.
The Controller Project Website - 3D printed gaming controller mods for gamers. https://hecontrollerproject.com/
Design Thinking Process
https://www.charlesleon.uk/blog/the-5-stages-of-a-design-thinking-process21112020
Skills Trees - (Thanks Steph Piper)
https://www.makerqueen.com.au/skill-trees-1 - One example below:
What is a MakerSpace and how does it benefit our community?
(Photo of a participant learning how to Laser engrave his favorite superhero on wood @ the Riverway Library MixHaus MakerSpace)
A MakerSpace is a collaborative work space found in schools, libraries, or separate public or private facilities. These spaces are dedicated to making, learning, exploring, and sharing using a wide range of tools, from high-tech to no-tech. Here are some key points about MakerSpaces:
Purpose: MakerSpaces provide a place where people of all ages can come together to create, innovate, and experiment. Whether you’re a student, an adult, or an entrepreneur, makerspaces offer an environment for hands-on learning and creativity.
ASD Community Benefits: A MakerSpace offers an alternative space beyond home or traditional schooling for exploring STEaM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) or simply fostering creativity. Whether you’re with your child, friend, or college, a MakerSpace provides an environment where innovation and hands-on learning thrive.
Equipment: While makerspaces can include advanced equipment like 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, and soldering irons, they don’t necessarily need all of these tools. Even simple materials like cardboard, LEGOs, and art supplies can be part of a makerspace.
Skills Development: Participants in MakerSpaces can learn a variety of skills, including electronics, 3D printing, 3D modeling, coding, robotics, and woodworking. These spaces also foster critical thinking and boost self-confidence.
STEM Education: MakerSpaces play a crucial role in preparing individuals with 21st-century, Industry 4.0 skills related to science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEaM).
Entrepreneurship: MakerSpaces serve as incubators and accelerators for business startups.
Different Names: MakerSpaces have been called various names, such as FabLabs, Techshops, and even hackerspaces.
Where is my local MakerSpace?
More and more libraries are developing their own Creative spaces and likely given a few years, this will become a fully staffed, standard service offering. These important local community places of doing, help support the local creative and innovation communities, providing a connection point for social interaction. If you are looking for your local MakerSpace, then try an internet search using some of the different names above.
Here are some links to the local Townsville MakerSpace providers:
Townsville MakerSpaces
- DAKTECH MakerSpace bookings portal (general public):
- DAKTECH MakerSpace Wiki:
- Townsville City Libraries MixHaus MakerSpace (general public):
- MakerSpace Induction:
- MakerSpace Bookings (Aitkenvale and Riverway):
- Area 61 - James Cook University Innovation Acceleration Capability (Application process for maturing co-partnered product developments available for Students and local businesses):
- Army MakerSpace, Lavarack (ADF personnel only) Barracks: