Quick fire – industry events update
By Industry Queensland
Ministers, global aviation leaders and renewable energy executives are among the line-up of speakers set to join Townsville Enterprise’s Secure the Future: Green Energy Forum.
Townsville Enterprise chief executive officer Claudia Brumme (pictured left) said the depth of expertise secured for the forum, March 16-18, reflected the scale of opportunity emerging across the region.
“Australia’s renewables energy future is happening now – and it’s happening in North Queensland – with biofuels, wind and solar opportunities on our doorstep,” Ms Brumme said.
“This year’s Secure the Future Green Energy forum is bringing together leaders who are doing much more than watching our energy transition, they are actively delivering it.”
Queensland Renewable Energy Council chair and CopperString founder Joseph O’Brien said the forum came at a pivotal time for Queensland’s industrial competitiveness, transmission and renewable infrastructure development.
“Queensland is entering a critical phase of electricity infrastructure and renewable generation expansion, where enabling infrastructure and coordinated planning will determine how quickly we can unlock private investment and strengthen our economy,” Mr O’Brien said.
The program will feature:
- Senator Nita Green, Assistant Minister for Northern Australia, Tourism and Pacific Affairs, addressing Australia’s national energy priorities
- David Janetzki, Queensland Treasurer and Energy Minister, outlining what Queensland’s energy plan means for North Queensland
- Edward Mason, Jet Zero Australia, delivering the keynote on building Australia’s sustainable aviation fuel industry
- Stephen Forshaw, Airbus chief representative Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific
- Fiona Messent, chief sustainability officer, Qantas
- Marianna O’Gorman, ARENA deputy chair, on accelerating clean energy investment
- Associate Professor Dr Joel Gilmore, Iberdrola Australia general manager regulation and energy policy
- Joseph O’Brien, Queensland Renewable Energy Council chair
- Leaders from Windlab, MMG, NGH, On Common Country, Energy Skills Queensland and TAFE
The event kicks off with a welcome function at Flinders Lane, Townsville City and the main forum will be held at the The Ville Resort-Casino. Click HERE to register.
Happening in March …
EGRU Engagement Day – Townsville, March 6
The annual Engagement Day is an opportunity for the EGRU team to provide updates on research projects and training initiatives, to hear from industry and research colleagues about new developments and directions, and to discuss the future focus for EGRU’s activities.
Further information and registration is available here.
Foxleigh Mine International Women’s Day 2026 – Middlemount, March 6
The event will feature a special guest address from Deputy Mayor Jane Pickles, who will share her insights and experiences on leadership, community, and the importance of supporting and empowering others. Details HERE
Emerald business networking event – March 6
Connect and catch up with other professionals and local businesses at this Central Highlands Development Corporation event. At Hops and Vine, Opal Street, Emerald, from 5pm. More HERE
Resource Industry Network International Women’s Day Business Lunch – Mackay, March 6
RIN’s signature celebration of successful women, leadership, diversity and connection is now sold out. Join the waitlist to be contacted if tickets become available. Details HERE
AusIMM International Women’s Day Breakfast – Cairns, March 6
Join the AusIMM Far North Queensland Branch and WISER (Women In Sustainable Energy & Resources Inc.) for their International Women’s Day Breakfast in Cairns. Details HERE
QRC and WIMARQ Resources Awards for Women – Brisbane, March 6
On Friday March 6, the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ) will come together at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre to host the Resources Awards for Women and celebrate International Women’s Day.
The event celebrates the achievements and contribution of the exceptional women in Queensland’s resources sector and shines a light on the importance of providing diverse and inclusive workplaces, where everyone feels welcome. More details HERE
In Her Words – International Women’s Day Luncheon – Dysart, March 7
Featuring Fallon Drewett from The Just Saying Project as keynote speaker. Details HERE
WISER x International Women’s Day Fun Run – multiple venues, March 8
Walk, jog, run or roll along one of Brisbane’s (or Townsville, or wherever you are) most scenic routes as a celebration of all women and an expression of hope and resilience of the 57 women who hear the words “you have breast cancer” each day. Details HERE
GEA International Women’s Day luncheon – Gladstone, March 9
11:30am Registration | 12:00pm Event start | 2:30pm Event end
Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre (GECC)
Click HERE for details
Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) Industry Forum – The Grove Rooftop, Brisbane, March 9
Join industry leaders for updates, insights and a Q&A with EDQ experts.
Brisbane Mining Club Luncheon – March 10
The event includes a pre-event networking opportunity in the Tattersall’s Member’s Dining Room at 12.00pm followed by a lunch with speaker Michael Knox from Morgans. Details HERE
ARREA webinar: Psychosocial risk in the age of AI: what leaders need to know – March 12
In this session, Heart Brain Works founder Dr Georgi Toma explores how AI and increasing tech complexity shape stress, uncertainty, job demands, role clarity, and mental health. More HERE
Queensland Exporter Conference – Brisbane, March 12
Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ) presents the inaugural Queensland Exporter Conference at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. Details HERE
AusIMM NQ branch tech talk – Eva copper project update – Townsville, March 12
Speaker David Mackay from Harmony Gold will provide an overview of the Eva Copper Project development and how it is progressing.
Program
5.30pm – 6.00pm: Arrival and pre-event networking
6.00pm – 6.45pm: Presentation
6.45pm – 7.00pm: Q&A
7.00pm – 7.30pm: Post event networking
AUSMASA Critical Control Management Workforce Insights Group Workshop – Mackay, March 12
As the Mining and Automotive Skills Alliance (AUSMASA) embarks on its new Critical Control Management for Mine Site Supervisors and Managers project, it is seeking to engage with personnel on the ground with lived experience in safety leadership, people and risk management, and Safety & Health Management Systems. Click HERE for more event details
Queensland Women of Wells (QWOW)
International Women’s Day 2026 – Balance the Scales – Toowoomba
Aligned with the global UN Women theme, Balance the Scales, this event is designed to create real access to industry opportunities, facilitate meaningful dialogue across sectors, and provide practical tools to drive workplace change.
WISER Suited To Success Donate/Sip/Shop charity event – Brisbane, March 12
Donate any corporate wardrobe or evening/cocktail wear you no longer use at this WISER (Women in Sustainable Energy & Resources) event. Tickets HERE
CCF QLD Celebration of Women in Civil – Brisbane, March 13
Join CCF Queensland for the Celebration of Women in Civil Cocktail Networking Event, an empowering evening celebrating the achievements and contributions of women in the civil industry.
DATE: Friday 13th March 2026
TIME: 6:30pm – 9:30pm
LOCATION: The Calile Hotel, 48 James Street, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
RSVP: Friday 27th February 2026
INCLUDES: Canapes and beverage package
DRESS CODE: Cocktail
COST: CCF QLD Members $170pp inc. GST | Non-Members $210pp inc. GST
Block Cave Modelling: The Chilean Experience – Brisbane, March 13
KMRC Friday Seminars – Webinar with Associate Professor René Gómez Puigpinos.
Click HERE for more information.
CHDC: From Brisbane 2032 to Regional Opportunity – Emerald, March 16
CHDC’s From Brisbane 2032 to Regional Opportunity will explore how major national initiatives can create meaningful and lasting pathways for regional Australia.
Presenters include Robert McRuvie from the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organising Committee; and Regional Australia Institute’s Sarah Robin.
Clic HERE for more information.
Mackay Robotic/Cobot Roadshow – Mackay, March 16
This roadshow brings together technology providers and industry specialists to share honest insights into how robots and cobots are being used today, how Australia compares with leading international markets, and where automation genuinely adds value, and where it doesn’t.
Click HERE for more information.
Queensland Critical Minerals – Industry Connect – Townsville, March 16
AMEC is partnering with CMQ to deliver a high‑profile critical minerals networking event bringing together industry leaders, project proponents, investors, government representatives, and Queensland’s global Trade and Investment Commissioners.
Timed to coincide with the presence of Queensland Trade and Investment Commissioners, this event provides a platform for meaningful engagement in key strategic international mineral markets. The function will feature contemporary geopolitical and industry insights—including a special presentation from Westpac on the current critical minerals geopolitical agenda—while facilitating connections that drive investment, offtake partnerships, and global advocacy for Queensland projects. Click HERE for more
Townsville Enterprise Secure the Future: Green Energy Forum – Townsville, March 16-18
A high-impact event uniting industry leaders, innovators, and sustainability champions from across Australia to shape the next chapter of green energy in Townsville North Queensland.
Click HERE to register.
AMEC-ADIA Townsville Workshop and Drinks – March 17
The Association of Mining and Exploration Companies is hosting this event in collaboration with the Australian Drilling Industry Association (ADIA). Participants will gain a clearer understanding of how to manage risk, meet regulatory obligations, and build strong foundations for safe, sustainable, and compliant mining operations.
Confirmed Presenters:
- Trevor Brown, Deputy Chief Inspector of Mines, RSHQ
- David Peff, Managing Director, SSE Co
- Eagle Drilling NQ
- Kahil Lloyd, Acting Deputy Director-General, Environment and Heritage Policy and Programs, DETSI
- Ken Singer, Acting Commissioner, RSHQ
- Madeline Simpson, Partner, McCullough Robertson
- Madison Jackson, General Manager, Wulguru Technical Services
- Luke Croton, Director Mineral Operations, DNRMMRRD
- Damian Roe, Partner, HopgoodGanim
- Warwick Squire, Chief Executive Officer, Coexistence Queensland
Economic Outlook Breakfast – Mackay, March 17
Featuring NAB head of international economics Antony Kelly, this breakfast briefing will unpack the economic forces shaping 2026 and what they mean for Mackay business. Details HERE
Integrated Manufacturing Systems Masterclass – Mackay, March 17
In this practical three-hour workshop, digital transformation expert Glen Fry, will assist you as a manufacturing leader to:
- Hear insights from industry leaders who have successfully integrated their business systems.
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of digital foundations and systems integration, and how adoption of these can benefit your business.
- Assess your digital position and access practical tools, including a personalised roadmap, and resources to maximise your profitability and resilience
- Learn all about the latest and cost effective technology trends that drive efficiency and resilience
QUPEX Luncheon – Brisbane, March 17
Featuring ODT Energy chief executive officer Lucy Snelling. Details HERE
RIN renewable energy supply chain forum – Moranbah, March 18
Join local and regional businesses to connect with renewable energy project opportunities, meet contractors, and better understand procurement pathways. Details HERE
Applied AI for Regional Decision-Makers – Mackay, March 19
Utilising the Microsoft AI ecosystem (CoPilot and Azure AI) to empower regional decision makers with data insights and capabilities.
Delivered by: Daniel Brown (Microsoft Copilot MVP) from Frontrow Technology
Click HERE for more information.
CCF Townsville Regional Engagement Meeting – Townsville, March 19
Join CCF QLD for the CCF Q
LD Townsville Regional Engagement Meeting thanks to SITECH Construction Systems.
Click HERE for more information.
QMCA Annual Awards Lunch – Brisbane, March 20
More than 500 industry leaders from contracting, engineering, consulting, government, and across the construction sector will gather for an afternoon of celebration, networking, and recognition. Details HERE
Queensland Community Energy Forum – Proserpine, March 20
Queensland Community Energy Forums provide an early opportunity to hear about upcoming developments and build a shared understanding of the benefits of these projects, as well as how impacts will be managed. Click HERE for more
RIN’s March Industry Briefing Breakfast – Mackay, March 20
Hear how Mackay Airport is being future-proofed through strategic infrastructure planning and long-term investment, alongside insights from Qantas on regional connectivity and supporting industry growth.
Engineers Australia Ignite Mackay – March 20
A relaxed evening of networking and light refreshments with fellow engineers. More HERE
EDA National Roadshow – Brisbane, March 24
Coming to Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, the EDA Roadshow will feature an in-depth keynote presentation from Lisa Andrews building on the theme of the 2025 National Economic Development Conference, Shaping Tomorrow’s Economy.
Click HERE for more.
QREC Energy Connect – Brisbane, March 24
On March 24, QREC will host its flagship quarterly networking event in Brisbane, bringing together senior leaders from across investment, infrastructure, renewable energy and government to discuss what comes next for Queensland’s energy transition.
The panel features:
– David Smith, Country Head – Australia, Cubico Sustainable Investments
– Todd Emmert, Director, Qube Bulk
– Jodie Taylor, Chief Executive Officer, Western Downs Regional Council
Capability Statement Workshop – Mackay, March 24
By attending the workshop you will learn:
• why a capability statement is important
• how to use your capability statement to market your product or service
• how to use your capability statement to accompany contract tender submissions
• best-practice fundamentals for developing and drafting a powerful capability statement
• how to access the latest information on Queensland’s supply chain opportunities
Click HERE for more information.
BOHOGS (Bowen Basin & Hunter Valley Open Cut Geotechnical Society) sponsor event – Brisbane, March 25
The official launch of the new IDS GeoRadar slope stability radar, ArcSAR Neo
Effective Contract Delivery Webinar – Online, March 25
This one-hour Effective Contract Delivery webinar will:
- provide examples of common mistakes to avoid
- provide the Critical Contract Checks that you need to make before signing
- provide you with an overview of some process you can implement to track your contract delivery performance
Click HERE for more information.
Accelerate Manufacturing Conference – Dalby, March 25
The fifth annual instalment of Western Downs Regional Council’s Accelerate Manufacturing Conference will be held at the Dalby Events Centre, 8:15am to 3:15pm on March 25.
For ticketing details, visit wdrc.au/amc26-tix or for more about the event, go to wdrc.au/accelerate-manufacturing-26.
BBMC March Luncheon with Stanmore Resources – Mackay, March 26
The guest speaker for the March 26 Networking Luncheon will be Stanmore Resources chief development officer Damian Zagel. Click HERE for more
Engineers Australia Ignite Cairns – March 26
These events highlight community, celebrate local achievements and create a supportive space for members at all career stages to connect with the profession. More HERE
April and beyond …
Austex and AMEC Brisbane Resources Lunch – April 1
AIPM Study Tour: Exploring the Port of Brisbane – Brisbane, April 10
The tour will commence at the Port Office, beginning with a visit to the rooftop Observation Deck to take in a panoramic view of the Port precinct and the surrounding Moreton Bay Islands. Participants will then board a guided bus tour led by an experienced Port of Brisbane representative
Click HERE for more information.
EGRU workshop, Mineral Systems of Eastern Queensland – Charters Towers, April 14-16
The workshop program will include presentations from:
- Alma Metals
- Ballymore Resources
- Cannindah Resources
- Gold Fields
- Geological Survey of Queensland
- Iltani Resources
- Terra Search / Loyal Metals
- Sunshine Metals
- Pajingo – Yulong gold
- EGRU, JCU
There will also be a poster display and core viewing.
The one-day field trip, hosted by Sunshine Metals, will include a visit to critical outcrops at the Liontown roject south of Charters Towers, and core from recent drilling at the Francis Creek project illustrating epithermal vein textures and mineralisation.
For more information and a link to registration click here.
QEC Investment Showcase – Petroleum and Gas Exploration – Brisbane, April 16
The 2026 QEC | McCullough Robertson Petroleum and Gas Investment Showcase will be held in Brisbane from 4.30pm on Thursday, April 16. Click HERE for details
Connecting Industry Luncheon – Gladstone, April 22
Queensland Magnesia (QMAG) will outline its latest innovation, converting magnesite tailings into magnesium metal, at the next Connecting Industry Luncheon in Gladstone. QMAG will also provide an update on its operations at Kunwarara and Parkhurst.
Renewable energy player Windlab will also feature.
The company will outline progress on its major Queensland wind developments, including the 400MW Gawara Baya project in North Queensland and the 1.4GW Bungaban project in South Queensland.
When: Wednesday, 22 April.
Where: Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre.
Time: 11.30am to 1.30pm
AusIMM International Mining Geology Conference 2026 – Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, April 21-22 2026
IMG2026 offers a program that delves into the latest developments in mining geology and innovative solutions to common challenges. Click HERE for more
CCF Qld State Conference – May 1, Gold Coast
DATE: Friday 1st May 2026
TIME: 9:30am – 4:00pm
LOCATION: The Star Gold Coast Events Centre, 1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach QLD 4218
RSVP: Friday 17th April 2026
NorthWest MPX – Mount Isa, May 5-7
Check this site for details as they become available
GEA Supply Chain Expo – Gladstone, May 6
A day dedicated to innovation, industry insights, and valuable networking opportunities. The expo will bring together leading suppliers, major industry players, and businesses from across the region. Click HERE for details
Australian Manufacturing Week – Brisbane, May 12-14
AMW is a leading event for precision manufacturing, allowing opportunities to connect with industry professionals. Click HERE for more
Unlocking India: The Critical Minerals Opportunity – Brisbane, May 12
Step into India’s critical minerals growth story in a one-hour boardroom brief built for Australian executives and specialists. Details HERE
TechVerge 2026 – Mackay, May 28
Tech Verge is Greater Whitsunday Innovation’s premier annual technology conference, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts from across the region and beyond.
This two-day event features keynote presentations, panel discussions, hands-on workshops, networking opportunities, and a showcase of cutting-edge technologies and startups.
Click HERE for more information.
Mine Electrical Safety Conference Queensland 2026 – Brisbane, June 1-3
Hosted by the Mine Electrical Safety Association (MESA), the MESC brings together a wide range of stakeholders such as industry workers, suppliers, contractors, consultants, and government regulators and departments. The technical program identifies areas of improvement and innovations for electrical safety, along with providing information and learnings to help improve safety and productivity. Click HERE for more
AusIMM Resourceful FNQ – Cairns, June 5
The fifth Resourceful FNQ Annual Forum and Dinner brings together industry professionals for a full day of knowledge sharing, innovation and networking.
The program will focus on:
- Opportunities for collaboration and growth,
- Emerging technologies and innovation
- ESG trends shaping the mining and minerals sector in Far North Queensland
Lean Manufacturing and Cultural Maturity Workshop – Mackay, June 9
An Introduction to Lean Manufacturing Philosophy and offers solutions to the challenges in change management processes.
Click HERE for more information.
MITEZ – The Long Lunch – Julia Creek, July 16
MITEZ’s major event of the year, The Long Lunch will be held in Julia Creek with a Paddock to Plate theme,
highlighting North West flood recovery and supporting local graziers while showcasing the strength and resilience of the region’s agricultural sector. Enquiries: EO@mitez.com.au
Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition (QME) – Mackay, July 21-23
QME is the largest mining event in Queensland, featuring more than 300 suppliers and attracting more than 5000 visitors in 2024. Alongside the exhibition floor, QME includes a free-to-attend leadership series that addresses the needs of the industry. Click HERE for more
Noosa Mining Investor Conference – Sunshine Coast, July 12-14
The Noosa Mining Investor Conference features ASX listed resource companies showcasing and selling their investment credentials via an exhibition and formal presentations. Click HERE for more
Queensland Mining Awards Gala – Mackay, July 22
Finalists and winners will be celebrated at the prestigious Gala Presentation Dinner, held as part of the Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition in Mackay in July. For more information, click HERE.
GEA Charity Golf Day – Gladstone, August 7
A day of friendly competition, networking, and community spirit—all in support of a local cause. Click HERE for more
Queensland Mining Industry Health and Safety Conference – Gold Coast, August 16-19
This year’s theme is Our Greatest Resource, Our People. Details HERE
Sir George Fisher Lecture – Townsville, August 21
The Sir George Fisher Lecture series was initiated by the AusIMM North Queensland Branch in 1977 and endowed with a grant by MIM Holdings. Held annually, the event recognises the contribution made by Sir George Fisher to the development of North Queensland in general and Townsville in particular.
Date and Time
Friday, 21 August 2026
6.00pm – 11.00pm (UTC+10:00)
Venue
Rydges Southbank Townsville
23 Palmer Street
South Townsville QLD 4810
RRS Gold Coast – Benowa, September 9-10
23rd annual Resources Rising Stars Investor Conference, at the RACV Royal Pines Resort.
Click HERE for more information.
AusIMM Critical Minerals Conference 2026 – Brisbane, September 21-23
Critical minerals are essential components in many of today’s rapidly growing clean energy technologies, from wind turbines to electric vehicles. Demand for these minerals has also grown rapidly as we undergo a global energy transition.
The challenge: How does the industry rise to meet this demand?
AusIMM’s Critical Minerals Conference will explore the issues at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. Details HERE
AusIMM Mill Operators Conference – Brisbane, October 19-21
Click HERE for more
GEA Major Industry, Energy and Manufacturing Conference – Gladstone, October 21-22
Join industry leaders, innovators, and professionals for two days of discussions, networking opportunities, and the latest advancements in the energy and manufacturing sectors. Details HERE
9th Annual Dust and Respiratory Health Forum – Brisbane, November 5
The Forum brings together experts from around the world to showcase advancements and emerging trends in the management of dust and mine dust lung diseases. It aims to foster collaborations and the sharing of best practice to improve the health, safety and treatment options outcomes for mine workers affected by occupational dust lung diseases.
Click HERE for more information.
Australian Energy Producers – Introduction to oil and gas
Brisbane, November 10
This one-day face-to-face seminar aims to give participants a deeper understanding of this vital industry.
