Strong showing for QME 2018

A mining sector resurgence has helped swell the ranks of stands for this year’s Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition. QME 2018 will feature 35 per cent more exhibitors than in 2016, with more than 200 companies confirmed for the Mackay Showgrounds event, July 24–26. In a new development, resource sector heavyweights BHP, Anglo America, Adani and Yancoal will be coming together for a mining pavilion, says Reed Mining Events director Brandon Ward. “That’s quite a big win for us as an event,” Mr Ward said. “These major mining houses value QME and want to be a more integral part of what we are doing rather than just coming down for the day.” QME has been running in Mackay for 25 years and the 2018 exhibition will be the 13th such event. Mr Ward said Mackay was a natural location given the city’s place as a gateway to key mining regions and its role as a premier service hub for the industry. Reed Mining Events director Brandon Ward. “There’s a huge amount of businesses that operate out of Mackay that service the mining industry across Queensland and central Queensland, in particular,” he said. “It makes absolute sense for the event to be placed there. The majority of exhibitors, whether national or local, tend to have an office or factory in the greater Mackay region.” Major QME sponsor Hastings Deering is a prime example, supplying Caterpillar equipment, parts and services to customers across the Bowen Basin. Central Queensland area manager Daniel Viero explained the importance of QME to Hastings Deering and the region: “It’s no cliché, but given the cyclical nature of the industry it is important we stand shoulder to shoulder to always deliver on the best outcomes for the industry and for the people working within it. The resources Industry is critical to Mackay and the region and the market we work within.” In addition to showcasing products and services, QME includes a seminar program. Mr Ward said one major topic to emerge from surveys on participant interest was the application of renewable energy technologies in mining. “Interestingly renewables in mining came out as No. 2 after maintenance - and that’s the first time we have seen that topic appear,” he said. “That is basically mining companies looking at how can they be more sustainable and reduce their energy costs.” QME 2018 will also feature a Business Matching Program, which offers attendees a personalised itinerary of products and companies matched to their areas of interest, and the Bowen Basin Mining Club will host the 2018 Queensland Mining Awards in partnership with Queensland Resources Council (QRC).

Strong showing for QME 2018

Industry Queensland

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