We are pleased to launch the Fremantle Innovation Exchange (FIE), a new initiative by the Fremantle Chamber of Commerce made possible through funding from the Meshpoints Promotions & Storytelling Challenge.
FIE is a curated event series designed to showcase and connect innovators, founders and industry leaders across key growth sectors in Fremantle. It brings together practical storytelling from entrepreneurs and experts alongside moderated discussion, to explore how ideas are developed, tested and scaled within the Blue Economy and Creative Industry sectors in Western Australia.
EVENT 3 — Blue Economy: From Idea to Impact
Level 1 Reception Room, Walyalup Civic Centre
Date: Tuesday, 1 September 2026
Event: 7:30am – 9:00am
Light refreshments will be provided
Tickets are free, RSVP is essential
Attendees can also partake in a tour of the newly opened Hub on SX site within the building. If you would like to take a look, please meet Hub of SX General Manager Nicola Devonald by the first floor lifts at 7:40am.
Session Focus:
This focused session will dive deeper into a key aspect of the blue economy - scaling innovation from concept to commercial reality. Featuring founders and industry experts, the discussion will explore pathways to market, partnerships, investment readiness and the role of research and collaboration in advancing ocean-based ventures. Attendees will gain practical insights into overcoming barriers, leveraging WA’s unique marine environment, and building sustainable, scalable businesses within the blue economy.
Keynote Speaker:
Susie Kropman(Blue Economy CRC)
Susie Kropman is the Director of Blue Policy and Planning at the Blue Economy CRC, where she helps shape the policies and frameworks driving Australia’s emerging blue economy. With a background spanning marine science, government, and environmental regulation, she has worked across offshore renewables, marine conservation, biosecurity, and ocean industry development.
A former marine scientist and senior policy leader, Susie is known for turning complex science and regulation into practical pathways for sustainable ocean industry growth. She brings a strong focus on collaboration between government, industry, and research to unlock real-world impact.
We’re excited to welcome Susie as a keynote speaker, where she will share insights on how blue economy ideas move from concept to meaningful, scalable impact.
Invited Speaker:
James Keane (CEO, Greenroom Robotics)
James Keane is the CEO and Co-Founder of Greenroom Robotics, a Perth-based company developing cutting-edge AI and autonomous systems for maritime operations.
With a background in naval engineering, James has helped scale Greenroom into a globally recognised innovator, delivering real-world autonomy solutions for defence, commercial shipping, and ocean science across Australia and AUKUS partners.
He’s focused on turning advanced robotics into practical, mission-ready capability at sea.
We’re excited to have James join us for an on-stage interview, where he’ll share insights on the future of maritime autonomy and AI at sea.