Robotics firm sees bright tech future in Nambour

Pepper the Robot is part of the vision of local company R4 Robotics to redefine Nambour as an advanced manufacturing hub.

Founder Chris Kalle said Pepper, manufactured by Softbank Robotics had artificial intelligence for real world applications. “For instance Pepper can actually ‘see’ which  patrons at a restaurant are anxiously waiting for service before your staff even realise,” he said. “Pepper can then engage with that customer or let a staff member know that a table needs service.”

NAO by SoftBank Robotics, another robot R4 Robotics’ specializes in, can also be utilised in aged-care environments and hospitals. “It’s about the human experience and sparking joy for people while solving a critical problem.

“Every business is unique, which is why robots can be so intrinsically helpful.  With a robot you have the means to take the workload off your staff so they can focus on what they do best - being human. We’re not building robots to replace jobs, we’re creating a future collaborative workforce, as well as creating new jobs that we haven’t even thought of yet.”

Chris said a new multi-legged robot was in development as part of a line of intelligent robots from R4.

He is keen to see Nambour redefined with a new technology hub in emerging technologies like robotics, AI and design.

C-Square Managing Director & Co-Owner Tracy Martin agreed saying the centre would be delighted to support a future tech hub, in the heart of Nambour. “It would be 100% aligned with our vision of business by day and arts and entertainment by night,” she said.

Chris said having a future tech hub in Nambour would create a paradigm shift, creating enormous opportunities for  locals and support the Sunshine Coast region with next generation industry capabilities.

University of the Sunshine Coast Adjunct Professor Phil Graham supported the idea: “A future tech hub, especially one focused on new methods of manufacture and bespoke product design, is a natural fit for Nambour and an exciting prospect for its future.”

“We’ve got a number of innovative businesses already using robotics technology like Maleny Dairies, Coyo and a growing underground of robotics startups here on the coast,” said Chris. 

“So having a local tech hub focused on industry and green manufacturing will be a game changer for the entire region.”

R4 Robotics was born after Chris moved to Nambour in 2017. 

Soon after Chris became one of the inaugural graduates of a world-first self-driving car engineer program.

“As part of the capstone project, in just 14 days, our team of four remotely developed an autonomous Lincoln MKV to navigate a parking lot, avoid parked cars, sense and stop at traffic lights – truly a robot car,” Chris said.

R4 Robotics owner Chris Kalle demonstrates Pepper on Friday