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GOVERNMENT data is far from sexy and certainly will not top any lists for engaging publications.
Many would be forgiven for harbouring such views, but computer crews at Inveresk's Battery Shed are working to fix that.
The technology boffins were bashing their heads together, programming, designing and coding new ways to present information as part of Launceston's inaugural Gov Hack event.
About 30 sites across Australia and New Zealand were taking part in the weekend initiative, an annual open data competition designed to flex skills with a view to benefit social and economic value of compiled information.
Launceston Gov Hack organiser James Riggall said he was encouraged by the productivity and application being generated at the Inveresk think-tank.
Interactive games, using real data as a back-story for computer-generated characters and mobile phone apps were just some of the projects under way on Saturday afternoon.
Launceston's Nathaniel Bott said his team was designing a program that reminded its users to put their rubbish bins out, depending on where they were based in the city.
The app was being developed using data provided by event sponsor Launceston City Council.
Nathaniel said data would be broken down by area and provide reminders to users who registered their residence.
Mr Riggall said the project was an ideal example of how data sets could be applied to directly benefit communities.
The final leg of Gov Hack will be held on Sunday. Visit www.govhack.org.