linux.conf.au 2004 IBM HackFest Winner Announced

ADELAIDE, January 19, 2004 -- Geoffrey D. Bennett, of NetCraft Australia, was announced the winner of the linux.conf.au 2004 IBM HackFest, and will receive an IBM pSeries desk-side server with a retail value of over A$39,000.

The aim of the HackFest was to develop a program that used artificial intelligence techniques to play a networked version of the popular game "Tetris". The programs, referred to as "bots", played against each other in a tournament overnight. Geoffrey's bot, named "Beth", was awarded the prize because it won the tournament, used innovative algorithms, and was well documented.

The linux.conf.au organisers would like to congratulate Geoffrey for his efforts, and thank IBM for sponsoring the competition and providing the prize.

linux.conf.au was held at the University of Adelaide from January 12-17 2004. More information can be found at http://linux.conf.au/

IBM was the Penguin Sponsor of linux.conf.au 2004.

Notes to editors

"linux.conf.au 2004" is the full title and preferred capitalisation of the conference's name. linux.conf.au conferences are held annually in an Australian capital city.

Linux Australia is the peak representative body of the Linux User Groups (LUGs) in Australia. Amongst other activities, it organises each year's linux.conf.au conference. Linux Australia can be found on the web at http://www.linux.org.au/