The AI Boom: Should You Care?

Artificial intelligence is everywhere right now — in the news, in workplaces, and in the tools we use every day. But beyond the headlines, it’s not always clear what actually matters.

Is AI something you need to pay attention to, or just another wave of hype?

The AI Boom: Should You Care? is a practical, beginner-friendly session designed for everyday people on the Fraser Coast. It breaks down what AI actually is, how it works, and where it can realistically be useful in daily life and work — no technical background required.

What we’ll cover

• What AI is — and what it isn’t — explained in clear, plain language
• What AI is genuinely good at today, and where it should be used with caution
• A look at the current AI boom and why it’s happening now
• Where AI can be useful, with discussion relevant to:
– Small business owners
– Tradespeople
– Makers and creatives
– Students

Why attend

AI has the potential to save time and support productivity — but it can also create a “hidden tax,” where time is spent checking, correcting, or relying on outputs that only appear accurate.

This session will give you practical rules of thumb for using AI safely and effectively, along with a clearer understanding of where it fits — and where it doesn’t.

You’ll also explore why many of the big productivity claims haven’t fully matched reality, and what that means for everyday users.

Event details

Date: Tuesday June 9
Time: 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Location: Hervey Bay Community Centre, 22 Charles Street Pialba
Cost: Free
Bookings essential

Nick Browne is a technology professional with decades of experience working at the intersection of artificial intelligence, automation, and enterprise systems. Long before AI became a household topic, Nick studied Neural Networks at university in the 1990s, an area of research that underpins many of today's large language models and AI technologies.

Throughout his career, Nick has applied AI in practical, real-world environments. As a former Chief Technical Officer for a law enforcement and defence-focused organisation, he led the development of AI systems used by agencies including Queensland Police. He is currently working as an Enterprise Architect and is involved in an AI implementation pilot within the aged care sector.

Nick brings extensive experience in process automation, robotic process automation (RPA), and the design and implementation of enterprise technology solutions. He has also delivered technical training and presentations to diverse audiences, from short executive briefings through to intensive week-long programs.

Rather than approaching AI as a futurist or technology evangelist, Nick offers a grounded, practical perspective based on hands-on experience building and implementing AI systems in both academic and professional settings. His session, "The AI Boom: Should You Care?", explores what AI really is, where it's already impacting our lives and workplaces, and how individuals and organisations can approach this rapidly evolving technology responsibly and realistically.