Collaborative challenges that bring geoscience, data and technology together to generate new ideas. Each hackathon will focus on a selected GSWA dataset, technology or scientific theme. Participants may use data analysis, visualisation, machine learning, software development or other creative methods to identify patterns, demonstrate new applications and communicate insights.
The series supports collaboration between geoscientists, data scientists, developers, researchers, and students. New challenges, datasets and participation opportunities will be added to this page as they are announced.
Who can participate
GSWA Hackathons are designed for people with diverse skills and experience, including:
- Young professionals in geoscience, data science, or software development
- Researchers and university students
- Multidisciplinary teams interested in applying technology to geoscience.
Eligibility requirements may vary between hackathons. Refer to the individual challenge information before registering.
How the hackathons work
Each Hackathon will provide participants with:
- A defined geoscience or data challenge
- Access to relevant datasets and supporting information
- Participation requirements and judging criteria
- Opportunities to engage with technical specialists
- A timeframe for developing and submitting an entry
- Recognition for leading solutions, with prizes offered where applicable.
Participants may enter individually or as part of a team, depending on the requirements of each challenge.
2026 HyLogger Hackathon
Participants are invited to use HyLogger data to develop new interpretations, tools, workflows and visualisations that demonstrate the value of spectral data for geoscience and ore body knowledge.
HyLogger technology rapidly collects high-resolution imagery and spectral information from drillcore and other geological samples using non-destructive visible and infrared spectroscopy. The resulting data can help identify minerals, reveal geological patterns and support exploration targeting.
Find out more about the HyLogger.
Key dates
- Registrations: open 9.00am Friday, 4 August, close 5.00pm Friday, 02 October
- Online information session: September — date to be confirmed
- Interim data release: date to be confirmed
- Hackathon dates: Monday, 12 October and Friday, 16 October
- Winners announced: Friday, 20 November at GSWA Open Day
Challenge categories
Entries will be accepted across three themes:
- Data crunch – analytics and characterisation of the HyLogger dataset
Analyse the extensive, under-characterised HyLogger dataset to reveal mineralogical patterns across depth intervals, rock classifications and regions. Use clustering, dimensionality reduction, anomaly detection and integration with geochemical or petrophysical data to produce interactive profiles, statistical summaries, predictive models or reproducible analytical pipelines that GSWA can adopt and extend.
- Data adoption – real-world applications for industry and professional uptake
Develop tools and workflows that turn HyLogger data into actionable insights. Solutions may support grade control, alteration mapping, ore-waste discrimination, resource evaluation, geometallurgy or environmental assessment. Outputs could include dashboards, automated classification pipelines, workflow integrations or case studies that demonstrate clear, immediate value for geoscientists and mining engineers.
- Data visualisation and interactivity – making HyLogger data easier to understand and explore
Create clear, accessible ways to visualise, navigate and understand complex HyLogger data. Solutions may include GIS tools, 3D geological models, interactive viewers, animated cross-sections, comparative drill hole displays or uncertainty visualisations. Outputs should prioritise usability, accurately represent data quality and communicate mineralogical insights effectively to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
Prize pool
A total prize pool (to be announced) will be available across the three challenge themes.
Further information about prize allocations, eligibility and award conditions are included in the terms and conditions.
Contact
For enquiries about the GSWA Hackathon series, email gdi.contact@dmpe.wa.gov.au
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