Hollows takes over from outgoing president John Pegler, who has led the organisation since 2004.

“I look forward to leading the industry through the challenges ahead and fostering a strong and successful collaboration with the Queensland government to achieve positive outcomes for government and industry,” Hollows said.

“Despite the current downturn, I expect the industry will continue to grow and with this growth comes continuing challenges such as sufficient skilled people and world-class infrastructure, and ensuring that our mining communities have the facilities and services that they require.”

QRC chief executive Michael Roche said Hollows would bring much to the presidency with more than 16 years in the industry including roles as company secretary and chief financial officer at Australian Premium Coals, the manager of the Coppabella and Moorvale coal mines.

“Over the past four years, John has led the QRC and the industry through a period of growth and has been truly inspirational in his judgement and guidance,” Roche said.

Elected as coal directors were Brian Flannery, Felix Resources; Seamus French, Anglo Coal Australia; Tim Netscher, Vale Australia; Julian Thornton, Peabody Pacific; and Hubie Van Dalsen, Rio Tinto Coal Australia. Keith Barker, Northern Energy, was elected as exploration director.

Elected as non-coal/processing directors were Alistair Field, Rio Tinto Alcan; Gary Halverson, Barrick Gold of Australia; Shane Hansen, BHP Billiton, Cannington; and Kevin Hendry, Xstrata Zinc.

Continuing directors not subject to the nomination process this year are John Pegler, Ensham Resources; Nicole Hollows, Macarthur Coal; John Smith, BHP BMA; Ross Willims, BHP BMA; Stewart Butel, Wesfarmers Resources; Greg Chalmers, Jellinbah Resources; Ian Cribb, Xstrata Coal; Steve de Kruijff, Xstrata Copper; Vic Alexander, Australian China Clays; Chris Cobb, Consolidated Rutile Limited; Chris Towsey, Citigold; Tony Fawdon, Diatreme Resources; Michael Rosengren, Thiess; Helen Gluer, Tarong Energy Corporation; Trevor Davies, Golding Contractors; Mark Hine, Macmahon Holdings; Kim Wood, Stanwell Corporation; Paul Zealand, Origin Energy; and Richard Barber, Santos Coal Seam Gas.