Cool stuff invented by Australians

Here in Australia we're not afraid of a little self-promotion. This usually is more prevalent after a few beverages of the alcoholic nature when deeds we have done get somewhat exaggerated. A lot exaggerated usually. However, there are a few inventions that have made a difference in people's lives that you may not know originated in Australia. Here's a few.

1992 - John O'Sullivan and CSIRO - WIFI
Thankfully this top bloke has a good noggin his shoulders! Where would we be without WIFI? CSIRO stands for Commonwealth Scientific Industrial Research Organisation.

1965 - Jack Grant - Inflatable escape ramp
This employee of the Qantas (airline) developed the escape slide that deployed from the side of aircraft in an emergency situation. They are now mandatory equipment on most major airlines around the world. The ramp also doubles as a floatation platform in the plane ditches in water.

1980's Reserve Bank & CSIRO - Polymer bank notes
These bank notes are very difficult to forge and have a lifespan 10 times longer than traditional paper notes. It doesn't help them stay in your pocket any longer though :) Pictured is the elusive $100 bill.

1950's - Dr. David Warren - Black box flight recorder
This remarkable device was developed to record and log flight data and was designed to be virtually indestructible. The box is not actually black however, it is orange to make it more visible at a crash site. Australia was the first country to make it mandatory for all commercial flights but now it is compulsory around the world.

1889 - Arthur Arnot - Electric drill
Initially designed to drill through rock. The Union Electric Company of Melbourne patented the electric drill in 1889! Seriously.

These are just a few of the things Australian's have invented or developed. If you're interested in a few more do some research on the following list: