Futurist Steve Sammartino had everyone captivated with a high energy address that covered everything from the power we have at our hands with smart phones to how he built a full size drivable car made of lego.

Mr Sammartino encouraged those present to think about the future and creating a regional renaissance.

"Every region has its own champagne," he said.

"Do you know the story behind champagne? In the early 80's it was the cheapest alcohol per litre in Australia until the Champagne region said you can't call it champagne unless it is from here. Every region has a monopoly on something. You just have to find it, own it, brand it, believe it and sell it".

Mr Sammartino had everyone thinking about what Illawarra's future champagne might be. He said a renaissance for regional areas based on new technology coming.

For the first time in history people are going to be able to work for a big corporation if they wish and live and work where they want and can afford. He said in regional areas such as Wollongong we have to change the narrative because people shouldn't have to live in a big city if they don't want to and they shouldn't have to commute.

"Technology is helping us circumvent that. We can do it. It is up to us. The world we create is the one we want."

"If you embrace the powers you have been given then I promise you you future will be anything but average".

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