She urged local contractors and large companies to enter the Queensland Mining Contractor Awards, which reward companies that show smart thinking, fast response and proven results.

“Contractors can use the awards to display their know-how and use the awards process to gain a competitive advantage when they bid for future contracts,” she said.

“The industry is constantly changing and forever moving forward and contractors and suppliers have to show they are capable of driving that progress.”

The awards have several categories, from cost-saving and project innovation through to equal opportunity, with the Contractor of the Year as the ultimate recognition of excellence.

Contractors have until Friday, May 9 to submit their entries related to projects completed in Queensland between June 2012 and December 2013.

“We have been delighted with the response to the inaugural awards, both from contractors and sponsors and I would hate for any worthy businesses to miss out on the chance to be part of something that is grabbing attention throughout the industry,” Currie said.

The award finalists and winners will be announced at a gala dinner at Mackay’s QME in July.