QME brings the latest mining tech to Mackay

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP has welcomed delegates and exhibitors to the Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition (QME) in Mackay.

“It’s great to have the QME back for the first time since 2018 after the 2020 event did not go ahead due to the Covid 19 pandemic,” Mr. Willcox said.

“The exhibition does a fantastic job of connecting industry participants focussed on efficiency and improved productivity, with more than 300 suppliers converging on the Mackay Showgrounds for the three-day exhibition.”

QME is described as a key place for the industry to come together to be inspired, innovate and connect. Mackay is also home to one of the largest Mining, Engineering, Technology and Science, or so-called METS sectors, in the southern hemisphere.

Numerous companies specialising in services to the mining sector in the Galilee and Bowen Basins are in located Mackay’s outer southern suburb of Paget.

“I also welcome QME’s decision to bring back the Mining Pavilion this year, which will host leading companies, including Anglo American, Australia’s largest coal producer BHP Mitsubishi Alliance, Bravus and Glencore,” Mr. Willcox said.

The exhibition is an opportunity for delegates to learn about the latest technological innovations and collaborative approaches to improving productivity through a series of seminars.

The series includes mine management and maintenance, health and safety, mine automation and policy outlook.

Companies across a range of fields including artificial intelligence, augmented reality and digital manufacturing will be present.

“I would also like to congratulate two local companies for making the nominations list for this year’s Queensland Mining Awards,” Mr. Willcox said.

“Blackrock Mining Solutions’ Wet Applicator Pump eliminates spray dust, improving health and safety for underground miners.

“SMW’s solar panel cleaning truck has shown how mining expertise can transfer to the field of renewables. The truck can clean solar panels at night, on uneven ground and without damaging the glass.

“These are great examples of how innovative Mackay’s METS sector can be,” Mr. Willcox said.

The Award winners will be announced at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre during the Exhibition, which gets underway in Mackay tomorrow (Tuesday).