MISSION OVERVIEW
This Easter, Coast Tech Labs is deploying to the Maroochy Botanic Gardens for immersive Augmented Reality (AR) engineering design workshops designed exclusively for neurodivergent (ASD/ADHD) youth and young adults. Operating in a highly supported environment, this is a hybrid capacity-building program bridging the physical and digital worlds to improve executive functioning. Using LiDAR on iPad Pros, participants will scan parts of the Rock Sculpture Garden, import those 3D objects into their selected professional game engines (Unreal Engine, Unity, Blender, Spline), use Blockbench for custom designs, and build and mod their own Minecraft-themed augmented reality experiences.
THE SQUADS
Strictly capped at 16 participants to maintain a safe, highly regulated environment.
Staffed by a Lead Software Engineer and experienced support workers (1:4 to 1:5 ratio) specializing in complex support needs (including ASD Levels 2 & 3).
REGULATION & EXECUTIVE FUNCTION
Coast Tech Labs aims to build participants’ executive function through high-interest technology-driven experiences. Participants can opt-in to wear Fitbits to track biosensory data and movement. We interweave specific cyber-physical activities (e.g. AR Asset Hunting, Spatial Navigation Challenges, and The Bio-Metric Supply Drop) to help participants practice physical regulation and manage their sensory load. We also apply techniques to sustain focus during complex engineering and design builds and reduce overwhelm.
LOGISTICS, DATES & FUNDING
To prevent autistic burnout and allow for deep processing, our programs run on a staggered schedule. This program is designed to help participants achieve specific NDIS goals related to technical skill development, social communication, and community engagement.
- Daily Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Extended Lab for social/sensory decompression) | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Core Engineering Sprint).
- Seniors Squad (Ages 18-30): Wednesday 15 & Friday 17 April 2026 | Fee: $1,155.00 (2-day)
- Mandatory Intake Process ($210): Includes a 1-hour online strategy session over Google Meet to determine group readiness and squad role, plus a personalized Transferrable Technical Learning Roadmap.
- NDIS Alignment: May be eligible for funding via Self-Managed or Plan-Managed NDIS plans under Capacity Building (09 – Increased Social & Community Participation / 10 – Finding and Keeping a Job / 15 – Improved Daily Living) or Core (04 – Assistance with Social, Economic & Community Participation). Private funding is also accepted.
- The Sunshine Coast Council site for the Maroochy Botanic Gardens and the Rock Sculpture Park is here: https://botanic-garden.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/see-and-do/display-gardens/sculpture-garden
- Details on The Arts & Ecology Centre where we will be hosting the tech (using Starlink) is here: https://botanic-garden.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/plan-your-visit/facilities/arts-and-ecology-centre
- A full walk-through of the Rock Sculpture Park that we will transform into a Minecraft AR Experience is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3XU7ZtRQb70
THE LOADOUT
- Hardware: Laptop & Charger (Windows/Mac/Linux). Mouse & headphones.
- Medication: Must be handed in upon arrival in its original packaging with the pharmacy label attached.
- Other: Packed lunch, snacks, and a water bottle.
HOW TO ENLIST
Spots are highly competitive. To secure a place in a squad and book your Intake Session, please contact:
Joel Biddle
Founder & Lead Software Engineer
Coast Tech Labs
