QME: The Pinnacle Event for Australia's Mining Industry

In the bustling heart of the Bowen Basin’s mining sector, the Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition (QME) stands as a monumental mining event, attracting thousands of industry professionals and enthusiasts to the Mackay Showgrounds from 23-25 July 2024.

Recognised as Australia's largest regional mining exhibition and the largest in Queensland, QME has been a cornerstone of the mining industry in Mackay for over three decades. It is a biennial event that no one in the mining industry can afford to miss.

A Showcase of Innovation and Excellence

QME 2024 promises to be a grand showcase of supplier innovation and excellence, highlighting the world-class capabilities of Mackay and the broader Central Queensland region. With over 300 leading industry suppliers, attendees will have the opportunity to discover the latest products and services tailored to the mining sector's evolving needs. This year’s exhibition will also feature a unique Engineering Pavilion and masterclasses specifically designed to provide practical, professional development for engineers.

Networking and Industry Insights

QME isn’t just about the exhibits and masterclasses; it’s a prime opportunity for networking and making invaluable connections. The event will host several social gatherings, including the QME Opening Party and the prestigious Queensland Mining Awards, in partnership with the Bowen Basin Mining Club (BBMC). These events provide a relaxed environment for attendees to connect, share insights, and foster business relationships that can lead to future collaborations.

A Glimpse Into the Future of Mining

The exhibition will feature cutting-edge mining technology and sustainable solutions, crucial for meeting environmental, social, and governance (ESG) obligations. Engineers and other professionals will have the chance to see large-scale mining equipment from industry giants such as Hastings Deering, Komatsu, and Hitachi Construction Machinery. The decarbonisation showcase will present the latest innovations paving the way for greener mining practices.

The Mining House Pavilion

For those eager to hear directly from the industry leaders, the Mining House Pavilion will be a highlight. It will feature Australia’s leading mining producers, including Anglo American, BHP + BMA, Bravus, BUMA, Glencore, Mackellar Group, and Whitehaven Coal. These companies will share their latest initiatives and provide insights into the future of mining in Australia.

QME 2024 is more than just an event; it's a convergence of minds, technology, and innovation. It’s where the future of mining takes centre stage, and industry professionals can experience firsthand the advancements shaping the sector.

Masterclasses for Engineers

In an exciting addition, QME 2024 will host free-to-attend, expert-led masterclasses, offering professional development presentations that are crucial for continuous professional development (CPD). These sessions will cover a range of topics, including effective supervision, practical hazard identification, and optimising belt conveyor systems.

Hamish Beattie, a Statutory Trainer and Assessor, will delve into strategies for improved supervision, focusing on safety, welfare, productivity, and compliance. In another session, Beattie will guide participants through advanced hazard identification techniques, aimed at implementing reliable controls to enhance safety and efficiency in mining operations.

Dr. Priscilla Freire from TUNRA Bulk Solids, a renowned consultancy based at the University of Newcastle, will lead a workshop on bulk material handling. Dr. Freire emphasises the importance of understanding material and component interactions to optimise belt conveyor operations.

"When you're attending an event like QME and being exposed to new technology, gaining an understanding of how the combination of material and components affects belt conveyor utilisation is important, especially to optimise and streamline your belt conveyor operations," she says.

Entry to QME 2024 is entirely free, though the masterclasses require prior registration due to limited spots. These sessions are tailored to benefit engineers at every level, from students and graduates to experienced site personnel and management.

For more information and to register for the masterclasses, visit www.qmeexpo.com.au.

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