Michael Holzer
Director and Principal @ Mikani | Innovation and Investment
Logic Innovation Precinct Opens to Drive Advanced Manufacturing and Workforce Innovation in Regional Victoria
4 September 2026
Mikani was pleased to attend the official opening of the Logic Innovation Precinct (LIP) at the Northern Victorian Institute of TAFE (NVITAFE) Logic Campus in Barnawartha North, Victoria.
The opening marked a significant milestone for regional innovation, advanced manufacturing and workforce development, bringing together more than 250 representatives from government, industry, education and the community to celebrate the precinct’s launch.
The event commenced with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by Uncle Allan Murray, followed by official proceedings hosted by Phil Paterson, CEO of NVITAFE, and Candy Broad, Chair of the NVITAFE Board. Guests also heard from Senator Michelle Ananda-Rajah, Senator for Victoria, before participating in tours of the new facilities.
Distinguished guests included representatives from Federal and State Government, Regional Development Australia, Regional Development Victoria, local government, the Victorian Skills Authority, Defence, and industry partners from across the Albury-Wodonga region.
A Centre for Future Industries
The Logic Innovation Precinct has been established to support innovation and workforce capability development across advanced manufacturing, logistics, automation and emerging technologies.
During the facility tour, visitors were introduced to an impressive range of industry-focused resources including:
- Data and Cyber Security Laboratories
- Robotics and Automation Training Facilities
- Additive Manufacturing and Laser Fabrication Labs
- Advanced 3D Scanning and Digital Engineering Capabilities
- Industrial Demonstration and Prototyping Facilities
- Heavy Vehicle Technology Training Infrastructure
The investment demonstrates a strong commitment to developing the skilled workforce required to support Australia’s future industries while strengthening regional economic development opportunities.
Building Industry and Education Partnerships
FalconUAV participated in the event by showcasing a range of advanced drone and remote sensing technologies, including solutions supporting agriculture, infrastructure inspection, asset management and situational awareness applications.
The event also provided an opportunity to further discussions regarding a developing partnership between NVITAFE and FalconUAV. The proposed collaboration is focused on creating practical, industry-aligned training pathways that support capability development in drone operations and emerging technologies.
Through partnerships such as these, students can gain access to real-world applications and industry expertise while employers benefit from a workforce equipped with contemporary technical skills.
Supporting Regional Growth Through Innovation
As someone who works extensively with government, education providers and industry organisations, it was encouraging to see the strong level of collaboration behind the Logic Innovation Precinct.
The facility represents an excellent example of how government investment, vocational education and industry engagement can work together to create opportunities for innovation, skills development and economic growth.
Mikani congratulates NVITAFE, its partners and all stakeholders involved in bringing this important initiative to life and looks forward to seeing the positive impact the precinct delivers across the region in the years ahead.