08 July 2020
For over 25 years Queensland Mining & Engineering Expo (QME) has been at the heart of the mining sector in Mackay. As Queensland returns to work following the COVID-19 shutdown this landmark exhibition will once again be held as one of the first major exhibitions to be conducted in Australia.
Traditionally held in late July, QME 2020 has moved dates back two months and will now host the event from 22-24 September with registrations now open. QME is excited and proud to play our part in providing a much-needed boost to the local community and support the mining industry to kick-start the economy post COVID-19.
Reed Exhibitions has been working with key Government Departments and partners to put together a comprehensive health and safety plan to make sure the wellbeing of exhibitors, attendees and staff is held at the utmost priority during this event.
QME has a remarkable history with Mackay and the entire region. Held every two years since 1994, QME will feature over 200 suppliers as well as hosting a free-to-attend seminar series that will give visitors the opportunity to hear from industry professionals who will address the current needs of the industry and facilitate discussion and solutions for a path forward.
Key industry leaders that have already confirmed their participation to speak at the seminar series include Ian Macfarlane, CEO Queensland Resources Council; Adrian Beer CEO METS Ignited; Kylie Porter CEO Greater Whitsunday Alliance and Lucas Dow, CEO of Adani Mining Australia.
QME Exhibition Director Brandon Ward acknowledges the importance of the event to the local region and also to the State following a tough first half of 2020.
"Mackay is the heartbeat of the Queensland mining industry which is why QME has been so important to the region for more than 25 years. As sentiment improves and the mining industry leads the economic revival, an event such as QME becomes even more important," Mr Ward said.
"As business owners and managers we face the importance of safety measures every day, through this time we look for your support and diligence to support the enhanced safety measures in place. QME will be back in Mackay and create the space for connections to be made again and discussions to be had on how vital mining is to our recovery."
QRC Chief Executive Ian Macfarlane said QME was terrific at showcasing the work of the resources industry and the talented people who work across a diverse range of commodities.
“Our sector is playing a critical role in the COVID-19 recovery and QME will build on this work and ensure our sector continues to be a key driver of both Queensland and Australia’s economies,” Mr Macfarlane said. Mayor Greg Williamson said this year’s QME will be a little different to previous years due to COVID-19 restrictions.
“Even though QME might look different this year, the exhibition still promises to bring big ideas, the latest technological innovations and it will create a much-needed buzz in our community,” Cr Williamson said.
“The Mining Equipment Technology and Services (METS) sector is one of the key drivers ofthe Mackay region’s economy and we’re keen to help kick-start the local economy followingthe impacts of COVID-19,” he said.
“Council has been working closely with the Queensland Government and Resource Industry Network (RIN) to open the new Resources Centre of Excellence to the global mining community."
“This new world-class facility will provide training opportunities for the industry and is an investment in job creation for the METS sector and the Mackay region. It will ensure we have a skilled workforce to take up job opportunities and it allows the Mackay region to be one ofthe world’s best in innovation, training and research. "
“QME is a signature event on Mackay’s calendar and one that council is proud to support.”
QME is also a proud partner of the Bowen Basin Mining Club’s QLD Mining Awards, which recognise achievements across the state’s mining sector. The awards will be held at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre on 23 September with entries for the awards will be closing soon.
Attendance to QME is free for both the exhibition and seminar series but everyone attending must register to gain entry. For an overview on the QME Seminar Series including session topics and speakers, plus a complete list of current exhibitors, please visit the QME website qmeeexpo.com.au.
About QME
Queensland Mining & Engineering Expo (QME) is the largest and longest-running mining exhibition in Queensland held at Mackay Showgrounds. QME will run from the 22-24 September and will feature over 230 suppliers, a free-to-attend multi-stream seminar series and networking events. The event will attract over 5,000 industry personnel along with an additional 1,000 exhibitor personnel over the 3 days.