In conjunction with the Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition (QME) from 19-21 July, the spotlight will shine on Mackay’s capability and capacity to supply to the resources sector, now and in a diversifying future. The Mackay-based Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) is holding three breakfast sessions during QME, hosting thought leaders from across the sector.

The free sessions feature networking opportunities, a light breakfast and presentations, followed by a bus transfer to the main QME event. Registrations for QME and the breakfast sessions are free, with organisers encouraging attendees to register ASAP.

Resources Centre of Excellence CEO Steven Boxall says the sessions were planned as an initiative to showcase the RCOE’s industry-leading facilities to out-of-town visitors and those who haven’t visited the RCOE yet.

“RCOE strives to connect the brightest minds in research, technology, education, and METS to shape the resources sector of the future. The breakfast sessions that will run each morning over the QME will delve into futurist resource opportunities in critical minerals, mine site rehabilitation, and benefits of a circular economy, all hot topics when talking of the future of the resources sector.”

The three breakfast sessions feature panel sessions facilitated by Mr Boxall, CEO of Greater Whitsunday Alliance, Kylie Porter, and Manager of the Mackay Manufacturing Hub, Deb Allan. Panel speakers include:

  • Tony Knight, QLD Government Department of Resources, Chief Government Geologist
  • Assoc Prof. Mohsen Yahyaei, Program Leader, Future Autonomous Systems & Technologies at UQ
  • Shaun Ferris, Deputy Director-General, Georesources
  • Trudy Mazucco, BHP, Progressive Rehabilitation and Closure Plan Lead
  • Shane Goodwin, New Century Resources, Head of Corporate Affairs and Social Responsibility
  • Pierre Viljoen, CQU, Chair of Automation and Future Skills
  • Rowan Kendall, Novum Energy, CEO/Managing Director
  • Georgine Roodenrys, Deloitte, Partner
  • Dr Kam Bhowany, WH.H Bruan Mining and Geology Research Centre

A consistent theme running across the sessions is the region’s place in the future of a sustainable mining industry – from how critical minerals play a part, to ESG in action and the opportunities of a sustainable future.

“A sustainable future for Mackay is looking positive, this is no surprise when you look at that the RCOE’s last 12 months of operations and the projects that have been activated within the METS sector, all which have encouraged diversification, sustainability, innovation, and collaboration. These projects along with Mackay Regional Council’s overall economic development strategies will no doubt set the future for Mackay adding value and continue evolving towards a more sustainable and diversified economy,” said Mr Boxall.

The RCOE Breakfast Sessions are free to attend as part of QME, but visitors must register. Bookings plus the full program are available online at www.qmeexpo.com.au.

QME 2022 will be held from 19-21 July at Mackay Showgrounds.

Advertisement