Repairing the Landscape

Cyclone Debbie's impact in 2017 was severe, causing widespread damage across the region and significantly impacting local communities and ecosystems. Reef Catchments responded rapidly and proactively to provide a comprehensive assessment of regional environmental damage. The speed with which the assessment was compiled and submitted lead to the receipt of significant funding toward regional landscape remediation. The Disaster Recovery program received $6.2 million over 2 years across 33 sites. Work included streambank remediation, riparian vegetation planting and works to rebuild landscape resilience and protect valuable productive agricultural landscapes.

The project was executed swiftly, engaging local businesses to ensure timely delivery across the region. This efficiency not only led to the successful completion of the initial project but also paved the way for subsequent work and projects, establishing Reef Catchments as an efficient delivery vehicle, outstanding for a not-for-profit organisation.

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Water flowing through the land catchment area into the Great Barrier Reef plays an important role in the health of the reef ecosystem. Water run-off carrying pollutants, sediments, and nutrients from erosion, agriculture and urban activities threatens coral health, resilience and the overall biodiversity of the reef.

The first Mackay Whitsunday Water Quality Improvement Plan, developed in 2007-2008, was a significant step in providing crucial information on water quality flowing through the catchment to the sea. This plan created a strong foundation for the programs that would follow over the next two decades.

Monitoring water quality remains an important activity for Reef Catchments. Regional data collection directly contributes vital data to long-term monitoring projects such as the Paddock to Reef Program and Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership.

At Reef Catchments, water quality data feeds into strategic planning for project implementation and supports landholders to make informed decisions around management practices.

Ultimately, understanding regional water quality issues, allows for better targeted land based initiatives to improve water quality flowing to the Reef.

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Between 2017 and 2023, the Reef Trust 4 program made significant strides in combating stream bank erosion in the Mackay Whitsunday region, particularly along the O’Connell River and St. Helens and Murray creeks.

It had been calculated approximately 2.9M m3 had been lost from stream bank erosion over nine years along 82kms of river in the O’Connell River/St Helens and Murray creeks.  Streambank erosion and sediment loss directly harm water quality and threaten the resilience of coral reefs. This compromises the reef's ability to recover from environmental stresses, affecting its overall health and sustainability.

The project was large scale, delivered over a six year project and provided significant challenges for the Reef Catchments Waterways team. The nature and size of the project required focused strategic planning and implementation along with strong collaboration with landholders and local businesses.

The program's efforts included collaboration with 31 local properties to reduce sediment flow into the Great Barrier Reef lagoon by 10,356 tonnes and the planting of over 70,000 trees to strengthen 25 hectares of riparian zones.

The initiative not only helped reduce erosion but also supported local job creation, improved regional environmental assets, and provided community education on sustainable land management techniques.

The success of Reef Trust 4 in Mackay Whitsunday region shines through its innovative approach to stream bank remediation and distinguishes it as a leader in the field. The important learnings and experiences from this and the Disaster Recovery program continue to pave the way for future environmental investments in the region.

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As part of the Australian Government’s Caring for Our Country Program, The Reef Rescue initiative was launched with the aim of enhancing the water quality entering the Great Barrier Reef.

Between 2008 and 2013, Reef Catchments implemented the program in the Mackay Whitsunday region to fast-track water quality benefits associated with improved farm management practices. The project outcomes for sugarcane, grazing and horticulture exceeded original expectations and it became foundational to the design and delivery of subsequent water quality programs.

The Mackay Whitsunday Water Quality Improvement Plan was used to identify a range of specific improved land management practices , based on the best available science and information for improving on-farm economic and environmental sustainability. The delivery process focused on increased adoption of these improved land management practices across agricultural properties in the region.

In total, 1,286 projects involving 942 land managers were funded, including 718 cane farmers, 204 graziers, and 20 horticulturists. At the outset of the program, Reef Catchments established working groups that were instrumental in building foundational industry partnerships and which were critical to the program’s success.

It was noted the Reef Rescue program also contributed to additional community benefits such as social engagement, economic growth, and technological innovation. It fostered community involvement in environmental issues, supported local economies through project funding, and introduced new technologies that reduced harmful runoff, setting new standards for sustainable practices.

Following on from Reef Rescue, Reef Catchments has continued to support projects to increase knowledge and undertake on-ground works, ensuring that productive land in the region benefits while contributing to improved water quality flowing to the reef.

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The Biodiversity team at Reef Catchments engages in various initiatives to safeguard the biodiversity of the Mackay Whitsunday Region. Their efforts concentrate on wetlands and priority species conservation.

Koalas

The first Reef Catchments Koala Habitat Restoration project kicked off early in 2024.

After many years working towards building recognition of the regional koala population and its needs, this project represented a significant step forward for Reef Catchments.

With a primary objective to stabilise or improve koala populations, the initiative includes managing 150 hectares for weed control to facilitate koala movement and lower fire risks, alongside planting 27 hectares with koala-friendly vegetation. The project spans from Sandy Creek to just north of Koumala, covering from Connors Range in the west to the eastern coastal areas, targeting several key zones within this range.

Regional landholders and communities have enthusiastically engaged with the project to assist with identification of koala habitat areas, weed management and habitat revegetation.

The program will provide valuable data and insights to support future regional programs in support of these endangered populations.

How you can help: reefcatchments.com.au/projects/sarina-region-koala-habitat-restoration

Eastern Curlew

Listed as a top 20 priority and critically endangered bird, the Eastern Curlew uses the Mackay region as a non-breeding roosting destination.

Flying more than 20,000 kilometres (round trip) from breeding grounds in China and Russia to Australia, they can lose 40-70% of their body weight. This significant loss makes it crucial for them to rebuild body muscle and fat during their stopovers in the region.

The Eastern Curlew programs, delivered by Reef Catchments, utilises habitat data to identify and prioritise sites for conservation interventions. These interventions include feral animal control, beach cleanup events, and habitat restoration. Community engagement, awareness, and education are also important in providing safe and quiet areas for birds to rest and feed.

These groundbreaking regional programs have been an important start to understanding and helping these beautiful birds in a bid to stabilise their population.

Want to know more? reefcatchments.com.au/projects/eastern-curlew/

Fishways

Many of our region’s fish populations are ‘Diadromous’ fish that travel between salt and freshwater as part of their life and breeding cycles. In 2015 the Mackay Whitsunday Fish Barrier Prioritisation Report investigated 3974 potential barriers that prevent, delay or obstruct their migration, impacting population numbers.

Reef Catchments and other regional partners have used the report to guide and focus future efforts on installing and repairing existing fishways, otherwise known as fish ladders, that facilitate the natural migration of fish. Fishways monitoring programs have shown that works completed on the prioritised areas quickly achieve outstanding results in terms of increasing number of fish and numbers of species repopulating inland waterways.

Wetlands

The Biodiversity team at Reef Catchments has a long involvement in the rehabilitation of wetland sites in the region, focusing on restoring these vital ecosystems to enhance wildlife habitats and maintain ecological balance. Their efforts contribute significantly to the conservation of biodiversity in these areas.

The team engaged in a long-term project at Sandringham Wetlands, just south of Mackay, which serves as a showcase study. This project was conducted in cooperation with the landowner to create a balance between wetland conservation and sustainable farming practices. Restoration activities at the wetlands included weed management, installation of fishways and the integration of beneficial farm management practices.

Landholder Jason Bradford is quick to describe the benefits of protecting what he sees as a very special asset. “What I want (for my property) is to be a financially viable enterprise, as well as the best outcomes for nature”

More info on Sandringham: https://reefcatchments.com.au/projects/sandringham-wetlands-complex

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With 21 years regional experience, Reef Catchments has gained an intimate and very personal knowledge of the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region and its community. It’s an accumulation of knowledge that provides a powerhouse of expertise behind their services.

Locals and visitors alike enjoy a diverse range of unique ecosystems; from pristine beaches and coral reefs of the Whitsundays to the lush, sugarcane fields of Mackay and the rugged, pastoral lands of Isaac. This area is pivotal for agriculture, tourism, and mining, and plays a crucial role in water management, supporting both community livelihoods and natural habitats. Natural resource management is an essential service for sustainable regional development with Reef Catchments well positioned to deliver services in our region.

Starting with the first Strategic NRM and Water Quality Improvement plans, Reef Catchments has played a key role in building essential knowledge of regional and community environmental needs. Their ongoing work has been key to identifying issues such as poor water quality affecting the Great Barrier Reef, loss of natural habitats due to city and industrial growth, and invasive species harming local wildlife along with the effects of climate change. These challenges require integrated management approaches to ensure sustainable use and conservation of natural resources.

By managing these challenges through integrated approaches, Reef Catchments strives to support sustainable development and conservation, protecting the region's diverse ecosystems and supporting its communities. With 21 years of regional knowledge and expertise, their continued commitment underscores the importance of their role in maintaining the area's environmental health and economic vitality.

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The Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region has a rich biodiversity providing numerous ecosystem services to the people who live and work here. Natural Resource Management is an essential service for sustainable regional development, with Reef Catchments well positioned as a primary provider of these services in the region.

Developed by Reef Catchments, The NRM Strategic Plan for the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region guides the sustainable management of natural resources for the region. The plan is essentially a community-driven document, guided, endorsed, and owned by the residents of Mackay, Whitsunday, and Isaac. The development of the plan involved substantial contributions and consensus from various stakeholders including landholders, Traditional Owners, industry representatives, community groups and governmental bodies. Reef Catchments collaborated closely with the community to craft this plan, aiming to forge a cohesive and forward-looking strategy for managing the region’s natural resources.

As part of NRM Regions QLD, Reef Catchments is connected to a network of 56 NRM bodies across Australia. This network, which includes 12 independent organisations in Queensland, addresses a wide range of environmental challenges from the Great Barrier Reef to rainforests and rangelands. They work collaboratively on issues such as land management, biodiversity conservation, water quality, catchment repair, sustainable farming, and climate resilience.

These collective efforts are aimed at maintaining resilience and adaptability to change, and aligning human activity with environmental conservation across regional Queensland. Through securing investments and building strong community relationships, NRM Regions QLD aspires to create landscapes that are both resilient and beneficial to local communities. This strategic commitment ensures that the natural beauty and productivity of the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region are preserved, supporting both current residents and future generations in living in harmony with their environment.

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With General Manager Rebecca Filby

Born in Proserpine in December 1982 and raised in Cannonvale, Rebecca Filby’s roots run deep in the Whitsundays Region. After a brief stint in Townsville at 18, she returned home and has lived across the region—from Cannonvale to Jubilee Pocket, Airlie Beach to Bowen—before settling in Proserpine for the past eight years.

Family is at the heart of Rebecca’s life. Married to Joel Altmann for five years and together for nine, they share two boys, Eric, 7, and Dylan, 4. Their family wouldn’t be complete without their two dogs, Callie, 13, and Benji, 10, who were Rebecca’s ‘first children’. Weekends are often spent travelling, enjoying family vacations at caravan parks, and creating lasting memories with their sons.

Rebecca’s career journey is marked by diversity and success. She began in the Jewellery Industry in 2002, where she quickly distinguished herself, owning a jewellery business and becoming a Diamond Broker by age 24. After nine years in the industry, she transitioned to banking, starting as a Teller with Westpac in Proserpine before advancing to Personal Banker in 2012. Her career continued to rise when she became the Bank Manager in Bowen in 2014, a role she held for four years.

In 2018, Rebecca pivoted to join the family business, a move that allowed her to blend her professional expertise with her passion for family. She started as Financial Controller, progressed to Sales Manager in 2021, and was promoted to General Manager in 2022. Along the way, Rebecca earned a Sales Licence, Motor Dealer Licence, completed Toyota’s two-year Future Dealer Leaders Program, and obtained an Advanced Diploma of Leadership & Management from the Australian Institute of Management (AIM).

Balancing her career with motherhood has been Rebecca’s greatest challenge and most significant accomplishment. She is determined to inspire her sons by exemplifying that success at work can coexist with a fulfilling family life.

Describing herself as outspoken and detail-oriented, Rebecca embodies resilience, dedication, and love in everything she does.

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Director Brian Filby

At the heart of every successful business is the person who connects the departments and brings operations together to ensure seamless flow, quality workmanship and precision delivery. At Filby’s Motors, that person is Brian Filby, who not only unites the team but also connects the business with the broader community when opportunity arises.

As a Director of the company and Parts Manager, Brian is a qualified Mechanic and Parts Interpreter. He is the fountain of knowledge for every pipe, fitting, screw and engine part any of their vehicles may need when it’s time for a service. Wherever possible, he engages with the local community, opting to spend money within the region and keep the dollars flowing within the Whitsundays.

It is this community spirit that makes him a well-respected individual and he is well-known for supporting the local causes that can often fly under the radar. He is a strong proponent of supporting aged care and support related services, as he feels these community groups are often overlooked.

Born in Proserpine, Brian has lived in Cannonvale for the last 58 years. In his youth, he was a keen sportsperson, even travelling overseas to play sport. He has three adult children and two lively dogs that keep him entertained. When he enjoys a moment of relaxation, Brian can be found out in the garden or taking the dogs down to the beach.

Describing himself as quiet, patient and fair, Brian recalls one of the most significant times of his life as the day each of his three children were born. He dreams of one day going on holiday to a location he has never been to before and says his favourite movie is ‘The Choice’.

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With Dealer Principal Robert Filby

Two of the pioneering families of Proserpine and the broader region were joined as one with the union of the Filby family and the Abell family in the mid 1950’s. This union set in motion a love story that has lasted through the decades and a legacy that has spanned generations. Robert Filby Senior married Thelma Abell, their love bringing together two powerful local families and a wealth of industry within the transport sector. This established the legacy of Filby’s Motors which opened its doors in 1964 and now lives on with their children and grandchildren to this day.

In 1981, the love story continued when Dealer Principal of Filby’s Motors, Robert Filby, married his high-school sweetheart Sue. The couple were blessed with four children and, after more than 40 years together, now enjoy watching their four grandchildren blossom as well. Robert feels very grateful to share such a long life with Sue and considers family the most important success in his life.

Leaving school at 15, Robert pursued an apprenticeship as a butcher, completing the trade before moving into the family business in 1978. Over the years Robert has gained experience in almost every aspect of the business, working in every department to gather an understanding of how each section operates and drives the business as a whole. This experience led Robert Filby to become Dealer Principal, a position he still holds to this day after 35 years of successfully leading the business.

Wearing the test of time, Robert Filby has experienced many challenges over the years, but on each occasion has been able to pivot and prevail, safely guiding the business to move with the times and adapt to changing markets. It is now a proud moment when Robert is beginning to see the next generation come forward, as his daughter Rebecca Filby steps into more of a leadership role. This cements the succession plan that will see Filby’s Motors become a three-generation business.

A family man, a man of industry and a man of community, Robert Filby prides himself on his compassion and connection with others. He loves supporting events and charities, participating in local sporting groups and watching his local community thrive. When he was in his twenties, Robert travelled the world and has fond memories of his time oversees. These days he enjoys being at home with family and loves art, model building, golf and gardening. He also loves watching both the cricket and NRL with the Cowboys being his favourite team.

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With Filby’s Motors

Filby’s Motors, an iconic local family-owned Whitsunday business celebrates its 60th anniversary this October, this incredible milestone marking 60 years of providing vehicle sales and service to the entire Whitsundays region, along with supporting the community and commerce in the region.

As a respected leader in vehicle sales, repair and parts in the Whitsunday Region, Filby’s Motors offers a diversified range of services to the mining, horticulture, broadacre, tourism and domestic markets. Filby’s Motors is committed to attaining excellence in quality management via strong customer engagement, understanding their expectations and investing in our diverse workforce to ensure their competence in providing optimum service.

Established in 1964, Filby’s Motors growth is underlined by its 60 years of experience delivering integrated vehicle solutions to valued customers. Originating as a small family business, Filby’s has continued to evolve and expand over 60 years, now employing over 30 staff. Strong emphasis is placed on technical training, along with training staff to provide ultimate customer service, with Filby’s Motors achieving several accolades in recent years for sales, branding and technician achievements across the multiple franchise brands offered.

Filby’s Motors was established by Robert (Bob) Filby Snr and his wife, Thelma, in 1964 when Toyota approached the entrepreneurs who had been running five local rural and transportation businesses in Main St, Proserpine. These included Shell Agency, John Deere Tractors, Chesney Caravans and CIG Franchise (now trading under the name of R.H.H.) and T.A. Filby together with Filby’s’ Coaches.

After 10 years the car dealership became so popular that they sold off the other enterprises – placing their focus solely on Filby’s Motors.

In 1978, the couple’s eldest son, Robert, joined the business with his wife Sue, and in 1984, their youngest son Brian was next to join the ranks. Subsequent years saw the business continue to grow, taking on additional franchises – Mitsubishi, Suzuki and Mahindra, along with a second dealership site in Bowen on 15th Dec 1997, and workshops designed to service and repair these vehicles.

Over recent years, a new generation of the Filby family have continued their family’s passion, with Joshua and Hayden Filby (Brian’s children) undertaking technician apprenticeships at the dealerships, and Rebecca, Melissa, Matthew and Blake (Robert and Sue’s children) continuing to modernise and consolidate management processes to ensure continued longevity of their family legacy.

As part of the Bowen and Proserpine communities, the Filby family, and the Filby’s Motors dealerships has weathered the unpredictable landscape of operating in North Queensland. From financial hardships caused by prices of coal, cane or tomatoes to inclement weather events and cyclones, and the destruction of the local horticulture and tourism industry this threatened.

Each time the communities work together to repair and restore, and Filby’s Motors is proud to be a part of the entire Whitsunday community – sponsoring and actively participating in community events, school projects, sporting groups and fundraisers.  

Contributing to the local community is an opportunity for Filby’s to share the loyalty shown to them, and to ensure community pride and ownership within the region. Recent sponsorship projects include the WRC Mayoral Ball, National Tree Day, local sporting teams and events, Whitsunday Catchment Landcare, school projects, local historical preservations groups, Bowen Men’s Shed, CQ Rescue, Bowen Turf Club and Paul Bowman Challenge along with 26 years as sponsor of the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys.

Filby’s Motors thanks the community of the Whitsundays for its ongoing support – and they look forward to continuing to provide you with sales, service and parts excellence for many decades to come!

filbysmotors.com.au

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Mackay Careers Expo

Mackay’s Careers Expo is back for its second year, offering an extraordinary opportunity for school leavers, recent graduates, and career-changers to gain invaluable insights into potential career paths. Whether you're a student on the brink of making pivotal decisions about your future, a recent graduate exploring your options, or a seasoned professional contemplating a career change or upskilling, this event is designed with you in mind.

Following the phenomenal success of its inaugural event, this year's expo promises to be even more comprehensive and enlightening.

Organised by Careers Event, renowned for hosting career expos across Australia, the Mackay Careers Expo will be held at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) on August 15, 2024. This event is a must-attend for anyone looking to shape their future, be it by starting a new career, upskilling, or transitioning into a different industry.

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This year, the expo features an impressive array of exhibitors. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with highly qualified representatives from prestigious organisations, many offering opportunities across the nation. These include universities from across Australia, student accommodation providers, Headspace, Youth Justice and Multicultural Affairs, Mackay Regional Council, Glencore, Community Solutions, Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, and Defence Force Recruiting.

The Mackay Careers Expo isn't just for students; it’s an inclusive event that welcomes parents, experienced workers, and anyone considering a career change. It's a chance to explore new possibilities and get the latest information from experts in various fields.

Diverse Industries and Expertise

The range of industries represented at the expo is vast, covering fields such as information technology, biotechnology, aviation, early childhood education, hotel management, healthcare, hairdressing, creative media, performing arts, medical and business education. This diversity ensures that attendees can find information and guidance tailored to their specific interests and career aspirations.

Why Attend?

The current economic climate means more people are gaining an awareness of the importance of gaining new skills or upgrading existing skills, to open opportunities for advancement as one way to combat the rising cost of living. Whether you're looking to kickstart your career, make a transition, or simply explore new opportunities, this expo offers the resources, advice, and inspiration you need.

The Mackay Careers Expo is designed to provide attendees with practical, actionable information. Here’s what you can expect:

• Expert Advice: Get insights from industry leaders on how to apply for courses, the costs involved, financial support options, and the qualifications required.

• Career Options: Learn about current career and employment opportunities, trainee and apprenticeship programs, and options for adults to upskill and retrain.

• Networking: Connect with professionals and educational providers who can offer guidance and support for your career journey.

Make the Most of the Expo

To make the most of your visit to the Mackay Careers Expo, consider the following tips:

1. Plan Ahead: Review the list of exhibitors and seminars before attending. Highlight those that interest you the most and plan your day around them.

2. Engage Fully: Take your time to chat with stallholders. They are there to help, so don’t hesitate to ask any burning questions you have.

3. Explore New Paths: Be open to discovering new career pathways that you may not have considered before. This is a unique opportunity to broaden your horizons.

4. Be Inspired: Allow yourself to be inspired by the information and opportunities available. Learn, engage, and have fun exploring the possibilities.

Don’t Miss Out

The Mackay Careers Expo is an event that no one can afford to miss if they are serious about taking control of their future. Admission to the expo is free, making it accessible to everyone who is keen on making informed career decisions.

For more information, visit careersevent.com and click on Mackay Careers Expo.

Whether you’re a high school student, a university graduate, or a professional looking to pivot in your career, the Mackay Careers Expo offers the guidance and opportunities you need to make informed decisions and take the next step towards a fulfilling career.

This event is more than just a career expo; it’s a gateway to your future.

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With M&P Services

Revolutionising the experience of working, training, learning and living in remote locations is at the forefront of business development for M&P Services QLD. This solutions based transportable building manufacturing company brought their signature ‘Mobile Crib Rooms’ into the market 18 years ago and the company recently secured a contract for the 275th Mobile Unit.

The product is the clear market leader in off-road fully self-sufficient Mobile Units. Increased employee safety, comfort and productivity are all direct benefits of implementing the right mobile solution on your site.

Fitted with everything from safety equipment to ice machines, toilet facilities, kitchenettes and modern office spaces, the ‘Mobile Crib Rooms’ provide a completely transportable self-sufficient headquarters for almost any location for mining, civil, construction and agricultural sites.

They have a purpose-built transport fleet designed to be able to deliver and unload the product almost anywhere in Australia. The whole design and manufacture is done onsite at their Diesel drive factory, including the manufacture of the heavy duty off road mobile base.

“In most cases with the correct implementation and activation the asset purchase is cost neutral,” shared Max Jr from M&P Services.

The mobile product has in recent times been adapted to large cattle stations, mobile construction camps and emergency disaster zone rapid deployment base stations and triage rooms.

M&P Services began its life as M&P Autos in 1986, has always been a locally owned and operated business which has since adapted and evolved in line with changing market conditions brought on by the ebb and flow of the economy and sector requirements.  

Along with standard modular and transportable buildings for both hire and sales, the company has a unique range that is designed to be superior within the marketplace. Mobile Crib Rooms, full solar mobile toilets, self-weighted (engineered) buildings, Combo tm units, off grid options, tie-down solutions and many more.

“These designs allow the client to experience some real cost savings over the life of the project. As soon as they understand the benefits of using our products within their site they generally become repeat customers,” explained Max Jr.

“Our products are used all over Australia mainly in Qld, WA, NT and NSW along with Lihir Island (PNG) and New Caledonia.”

“We have implemented a continuous improvement process so we can remain leading the market in innovative premanufactured, modular and transportable solutions.”

The company plans to move into the Class 1a (residential) late this year early next, a move that will be underpinned by the existing and foreseeable housing crisis.

“We have some really exciting product features coming up in our LQ (living quarters) Range”.

M&P Services has a large range of static and mobile equipment within the Hire Fleet including Mine Site Compliance units, fast and efficient engineered tie down solutions. Site office, crib rooms, training rooms, class rooms, pre start areas, covered decks, toilet and shower blocks, canteens etc.

“We have over the last 12 months simplified our designs allowing for increased stock holding allowing us to control lead times,” stated Max.

“For example, an open plan office 12m x 3m has a current lead time of three weeks with the average lead siting at eight weeks.

“Shorter lead times, location and competitive pricing is driving our current growth”

“This year we celebrate over 10 years in our Diesel Drive, Mackay factory. We are now the largest manufacturer of transportable buildings in central and northern Queensland. We have an amazing team of dedicated long term management and operations staff committed to delivering the best possible product to the market.”

“We have such a dedicated team at Diesel Drive and we all share the common goal of customer focus. My job is so much easier thanks to the commitment of long term employees we have fostered.”

The future is looking buoyant at M&P Services, four years removed from the sale of their transport business assets, their growth within the manufacturing and portable building industry has exceeded expectations year on year since.

mpservices.net.au

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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.

Celebrating Excellence: The Queensland Mining Awards

This year’s Queensland Mining Awards, scheduled for 24 July, will celebrate a decade of excellence in the mining industry. With a record-breaking 70 entries, the awards will

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