Regional innovation and industry excellence were on full display last Friday at the inaugural Queensland Resources and Innovation Expo, hosted at the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) in Mackay.
The one-day event, backed by the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) as principal sponsor, brought together more than 30 exhibitors from across Queensland and interstate, including Western Australia, South Australia and Victoria. The expo attracted industry professionals, educators, students, and innovators, all eager to explore the latest advancements in mining and resources.
Held in Paget, known as Queensland’s mining and manufacturing powerhouse, the event featured panel sessions, the inaugural Mine Pitch showcase, and cutting-edge demonstrations centred on critical minerals, operational efficiency, and ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) innovation.
RCOE CEO Steven Boxall said the event marked a significant milestone for regional Queensland and the wider resources sector.
“This is our first expo… we really wanted to do something that gave local businesses the opportunity to stand up and showcase what they’re doing in the sector,” Mr Boxall said.
“There’s a whole range of world-leading innovation being developed out of regions like Mackay… everything from AI-driven safety systems, electrified equipment, solutions around safety – it’s really world-leading innovation happening out of regional Queensland.”
Boxall highlighted the event’s focus on emerging technologies and safety advancements.
“Particularly in that AI and safety space, there’s tech that can map areas of mine sites that have never been accessible before, keeping people away from the unsafe parts of a very dangerous industry.”
He also reflected on the depth of experience within the region.
“This morning, I actually spoke to someone who proudly said this is their 55th year working in the coal sector here in the Bowen Basin.”
“Whether it's the world’s best met coal or the emerging critical mineral sector, Queensland is absolutely blessed… not just with resources, but with the smarts to develop innovation that keeps us safe, sustainable and productive.”
QRC CEO Janette Hewson said the Council was proud to support the inaugural event and reiterated the region’s critical role in powering the state’s economy.
“Queensland Resources Council and our 200 members are so proud to be the inaugural sponsors of the Resources Centre of Excellence Innovation Expo,” Ms Hewson said.
“We have world-class resources, great suppliers, and people who are absolutely skilled at what they do – producing the resources the world needs safely, sustainably, and productively.”
“Through QMEA, we’re working to bring forward the next generation of talent, and we really want to target regional communities like Mackay.”
Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, Andrew Willcox, praised the region’s contribution to the national economy and the innovation on display.
“I’m really excited to be here to see the innovation,” Mr Willcox said.
“Currently, it’s about $5 billion in royalties coming out of this area. At its peak, it was around $9 billion.”
“You take coal away and the country stops.”
He also emphasised the importance of local manufacturing and self-reliance.
“The equipment being made here, like underground lighting, was developed in Mackay and now used all over the world.”
“Our capability is huge… sovereign capability is critical. The more we develop here and use here, the less we rely on overseas competitors.”
“If COVID taught us anything, it’s that we need to be self-sufficient.”
The Queensland Resources and Innovation Expo offered a powerful glimpse into a future where regional Queensland leads the way in sustainable, cutting-edge resources innovation.
The inaugural Queensland Resources and Innovation Expo in Mackay showcased regional Queensland’s leadership in sustainable, tech-driven mining and manufacturing, drawing over 30 exhibitors and key industry voices from across the nation. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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