Celebrating the resource sector’s quiet giants and bold trailblazers.
In a region defined by grit, ingenuity and a relentless drive to evolve, the Resource Industry Network (RIN) has announced the finalists for its prestigious 2025 RIN Awards — and the lineup is nothing short of inspiring.
From shop floors to boardrooms, from safety wins to market breakthroughs, these awards highlight the powerhouse that is the Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday METS and resources sector — one of the most sophisticated and influential hubs of its kind in the nation.
Spanning seven categories, the 2025 finalists reflect a wide spectrum of leadership: in safety, innovation, manufacturing, inclusion, community connection, and business expansion. What binds them together is a shared commitment to moving industry forward — not just for profit, but for people.
RIN General Manager Dean Kirkwood said this year’s finalists are particularly meaningful, given the challenges many businesses have faced over the past year.
“Global uncertainty, economic pressures and shifting markets have tested even the most established operators,” Mr Kirkwood said.
“But in true Greater Mackay Region fashion, our sector hasn’t backed down. Instead, it’s adapted, grown, and doubled down on innovation and community impact. The finalists selected are proof that our region doesn’t just survive challenges, it transforms them into momentum.”
Winners will be revealed at the highly anticipated 2025 RIN Awards Gala Dinner on Friday, 22 August — a black-tie affair at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) that promises to be the highlight of the industry calendar. Bringing sharp wit and national star power, comedian and television personality Ed Kavalee will lead the evening as MC, keeping the crowd entertained between award reveals and inspiring moments. Add to that the electric energy of live music from the Luke Miller Band, and you’ve got a night that goes beyond recognition — it’s a celebration of everything the METS and resources sectors stand for: resilience, innovation, and connection.
With leaders, innovators, and changemakers from across the region coming together under one roof, this is the networking and celebration event not to be missed.
“This isn’t just an awards night,” Mr Kirkwood said.
“It’s a recognition of the depth of talent that exists across our supply chain — from the smallest fabricator to the largest exporter. It’s also an invitation to come together as a community and raise a glass to what makes this region great.”
Book your tickets now to be part of an unforgettable night that puts the spotlight firmly on industry excellence.
2025 RIN Awards Finalists
Safety Foremost Award – Sponsored by Diacon Australia
• Ausgroup
• FMS Group
• Aurizon
Champion Culture Award – Sponsored by FMS Group
• Richglen
• Kaefer
Connecting in the Community Award – Sponsored by Local Buying Foundation
• Mackay Women’s Services
• Gardian
• BMA Hay Point Coal Terminal
Expansion into New Markets Award – Sponsored by Capricornia Pumped Hydro
• IQ Solutions
• Mackay Safety
• ALT Industries
Manufacturing Excellence Award – Sponsored by Queensland Manufacturing Hubs
• Jet Engineering
• IQ Solutions
• M & P Services
Standing Out from the Crowd Award – Sponsored by Onsite Training Australia
• ALT Industries – Tristan Turnbull
• Tropical Exposure – Robert Cox
• Glencore – Colin Hoyle
Inclusion and Diversity Award – Sponsored by BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA)
• North Queensland Bulk Ports
Read more about the finalists in our RIN Awards Feature in our August 15 edition!
………………………………………………………………………………………………
Event Details
What: RIN Awards Gala Dinner 2025
When: Friday 22 August 2025
Where: Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC), 258 Alfred Street, Mackay QLD 4740
Time: 6:00 pm – Late
MC: Ed Kavalee
Entertainment: The Luke Miller Band
Dress Code: Black Tie
Tickets: Book online at www.rin.org.au
Award winners from the 2024 RIN Awards Gala, showcasing their exceptional contributions and commitment to the resources industry. Photo credit: Resource Industry Network
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2024 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
