Queensland Mining Awards and QME Showcase Innovation at Mackay Expo

The Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition (QME) in Mackay celebrated regional mining excellence with a black‑tie gala where the Queensland Mining Awards were presented. Over 70 entries across nine categories produced 26 finalists, and winners included Pentacon & BMA (Collaboration), Bravus Mining & Resources (Safety & Environment), FMS Group (Innovation and Contractor of the Year), Kestrel Coal Resources (Innovation – Miner), Mammoet Australia (Productivity), KAEFER Australia (Community/EEO), Lucas Drilling (Best New Technology) and Anglo American (Safety Initiative). Speakers featured Queensland Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last, Queensland Resources Council CEO Janette Hewson and Bowen Basin Mining Club director Jodie Currie, who highlighted the sector’s resilience and regional talent.

QME 2026 attracted about 6,500 attendees and 360 suppliers, displaying flagship equipment such as Hitachi | LANDCROS’s EX1200‑7 excavator and Liebherr’s PR776 G8 dozer. Mayor Greg Williamson opened the event, and Hitachi Construction Machinery Australia GM Sean Ryan noted the industry is undergoing an unprecedented period of change driven by digital transformation and automation.