AI 2025: The Year That Was (And What's Coming in 2026) Fireside Chat with Prof. Paul Salmon & Networking

What a year it's been for AI.

Breakthrough models, major advances in AI-powered video and heated debates about regulation, 2025 has reshaped how we think about artificial intelligence and its role in our lives.

Join us for the Queensland AI Hub Sunshine Coast Chapter's End of Year Celebration as we reflect on the year's most significant AI developments and attempt to peer into the crystal ball for 2026.

🔥 FIRESIDE CHAT FEATURING:

Professor Paul Salmon, Centre for Human Factors and Systems Science at UniSC, in conversation with Dr Karen Sutherland, Sunshine Coast Chapter Co-Director (UniSC & Dharana Digital).

Together, they'll unpack the AI moments that mattered, the surprises that caught us off guard, and the trends that could define the year ahead.

MC: SC Chapter Co-Director, CJ Josic (Silicon Coast & FWD>>>Fest)

WHAT TO EXPECT:

Thought-provoking discussion on AI's evolution
Insights from leading researchers
Drinks and nibbles
Networking with fellow AI enthusiasts and the AI-curious
A chance to connect before the summer break

Bring your questions, your observations, and your predictions.

📍 WHERE: Library+ Caloundra, 1 Omrah Ave, Caloundra QLD
📅 WHEN: Friday 12th December, 2025
⏰ TIME: 5:30pm - 7:30pm
💰 COST: $15.00

⚠️ Limited tickets available – secure your spot now.

Professor Paul Salmon, Centre for Human Factors and Systems Science at UniSC

Paul is a Professor of Human Factors and creator of the Centre for Human Factors and Systems Science at the University of the Sunshine Coast. He has almost 25 years’ experience of applied Human Factors and systems science research in a diverse set of domains.

Paul has co-authored 23 books and over 300 peer-reviewed journal articles. His current research interests are focused on the application of Human Factors and systems science to manage societal and global risks. Paul has received several prestigious awards from the International, Australian, US, and UK Human Factors and Ergonomics societies, and for the past 5 years The Australian has identified him as Australia’s field leader in the area of quality and reliability.