Sports Technology

Eight Queensland businesses have demonstrated innovative technologies at the National Rugby League (NRL) Magic Round Tech Showcase. The eight local startups promoted their innovations to the NRL and NRL clubs, as well as key partners and sponsors at the NRL Magic Round Tech Showcase.

The showcase is the culmination of the NRL Tech Sprint – a 10-week program for selected Queensland businesses that had direct access to NRL experts, to help refine and adapt their technologies to meet the needs of the sporting body.

The event features emerging innovations such as immersive technology, artificial intelligence, micro-wearable sensors and 3D scanning, which can be used in the sports sector to boost fan engagement, athlete performance and wellness, and overall accessibility of the NRL.

Two companies – Imagine Realities and Crowd Canvas, had their products in use at Suncorp Stadium during Magic Round from 1st to 4^th May 2025.

Imagine Realities gives fans the chance to become NRL players as an avatar through their Tackle and Learn immersive experience held outside the stadium, with participants able to dodge tackles and score tries with motion sensors picking up their movements.

During matches at Suncorp Stadium, fans can be active participants in the interactive light show using their mobile phones to activate colours and torches in synchronisation with music – thanks to Crowd Canvas’ fan platform.

QLD Minister for Science and Innovation Andrew Powell said the showcase was an opportunity to leverage the exceptional major event, which brought tens of thousands of fans from around the country to Brisbane.

Minister Powell noted “not only is Magic Round one of our State’s biggest events bringing in millions to our visitor economy, but we’re ensuring we get every inch of value from it by showcasing our tech abilities.

“These emerging technologies will help to address real-world industry challenges, while enhancing the fan experience, athlete performance and event operations of the NRL.

“We are putting these Queensland businesses on the national stage – and in front of decision-makers from the NRL, NRL clubs and sponsors – with opportunities to secure commercial contracts.”

NRL Chief Executive Andrew Abdo said rugby league and innovation went hand in hand and added “the Tech Showcase is another exciting opportunity for the NRL, the Queensland Government and Queensland’s best and brightest to work together to create the next wave of cutting-edge ideas in the world of sport.”

More information on the NRL Magic Round Tech Showcase 2025 

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