Hack the Isles Live Final 2026, Campbell College, Belfast
In February 2026, Campbell College, Belfast hosted the Live Final of the Hack the Isles cyber security competition, welcoming emerging cyber talent from Northern Ireland, England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales for a high-intensity, real-world cyber challenge.
The Live Final marked the culmination of a multi-stage programme involving more than 300 participants. After regional bootcamps and an online qualifier, finalists earned their place in Belfast to take on immersive cyber scenarios designed to mirror the pressures and realities faced by industry and government.
Team AXL were appointed to deliver full event production and technical support for the Live Final, transforming Campbell College into a professional, broadcast-ready competition space for the day.
Building the Main Stage
At the centre of the room, we installed a 5m x 3m high-resolution LED video wall, creating a clear and impactful backdrop for competition updates, speaker segments and live content. A Pixelhue vision mixer, presentation laptops and a concealed comfort monitor ensured smooth switching and clean delivery throughout.
A full stage build using Revostage decking, complete with a black glass lectern, provided a strong focal point for hosts and guest speakers. The setup needed to feel professional, but still appropriate for the academic setting.
Screens Throughout the Venue
Given the scale of the competition, visibility was key. We supplied:
Six 55” 4K display screens
Six 65” touchscreen displays
Additional 65” HD screens
These were positioned strategically around the venue to support scoring updates, sponsor recognition and participant information.
The touchscreen stations in particular helped create a more interactive environment, allowing real-time engagement and content display across the space.
Live Streaming & Coverage
The Live Final also required professional broadcast capability.
We delivered a multi-camera setup including Sony FX30 and PXW-Z190 cameras, tripods, a wireless camera system, capture hardware and audio interfaces to enable clean livestream output. This allowed remote audiences, partners and stakeholders to follow the competition as it unfolded.
Everything was controlled through dedicated vision mixing and streaming systems to ensure stable output and reliable performance across the day.
Audio, Lighting & Power
Clear communication was critical for both competitors and spectators.
We installed a Midas M32R digital mixing console with stagebox, EV speaker systems and a full range of handheld and headset microphones to support hosts, judges and speakers.
Lighting included LED PAR uplighters, moving beam washes and profile fixtures, controlled via an Avolites desk. This allowed us to keep the stage well lit for cameras while adding atmosphere during key announcements.
As the event required additional infrastructure, we also supplied a 20kVA silenced generator, ensuring stable power throughout the competition.
Onsite Delivery
The project included load-in the evening before, followed by full event-day operation with four AXL technicians and additional crew onsite. From setup to live switching, lighting control and final de-rig, everything was managed in-house.
A Strong Showcase of Emerging Talent
Hack the Isles is about more than competition. It represents collaboration across education, industry and government to develop practical cyber capability and confidence in the next generation.
It was a privilege to support an event that focused so clearly on skills, resilience and opportunity. The Live Final ran smoothly, looked professional, and created a fitting stage for the talent on display.
Another great example of how thoughtful AV production can help bring complex, technical events to life.
