CROCS, CODE AND KATTER: Local Talent in Tech

Excerpt from Sumpton’s Gold Rush Gazette - Friday 28th of August 2026

Screenshot of “Mad Hatter” game made by Stephen Price (screenshot provided by Stephen Price)

Stephen Price and his daughter (photo provided by Stephen Price)

Well known teacher and respected local Stephen Price has brought a distinctly North Queensland flavour to the mobile gaming world.

Paying homage to one of the region's most recognisable political figures, Kennedy MP Bob Katter, Mr Price created ‘Mad Hatter’ after being inspired while teaching Year 7 students the basics of coding.

“I got inspired while teaching some basic coding to some year 7's this year,” Mr Price said.

“I found a tutorial to make some basic games and decided to add a bit of fun and a bit of North Queensland identity after the initial coding.”

The game takes inspiration from the popular game ‘Flappy Bird’, with players tapping the screen to keep a hat airborne while navigating a series of crocodile obstacles.

Mr Price's youngest daughter also became part of the project, contributing her voice to the game.

“My youngest daughter got involved because she was constantly climbing all over me while I was trying to code and I decided to include her by getting her to say some voice lines,” he said.

“Her voice lines are my favourite by far.

“She seems to love it too.”

At the heart of the game’s humour is a recognisable nod to Kennedy MP Bob Katter, with players who reach the ‘1000-blossoms bloomed’ score rewarded with secret voice lines.

“The people I showed it to early seemed to enjoy the casual humour of the game and I hope people can enjoy a bit of casual fun with it,” he said.

“I'm curious to see if anyone can get to 1000 blossoms bloomed to unlock the secret voice lines.

“I haven't made it there myself yet.”

While the game draws on familiar internet and local culture, Mr Price said its references are intended as a celebration of the local community and the distinctive character of Charters Towers.

“I also want to let people know that any references to memes and such are done in good humour and with love for the unique identity we have in Charters Towers.”

Mad Hatter is currently available through the Google Play Store for Android phones and devices.