Organisers say high levels of activity and record commodity prices for Queensland’s mining and minerals processing sectors, which are major drivers of the state’s economic growth, will add strength to this year’s event.

The two industries currently contribute around $9.4 billion per year to the Queensland economy, 10% of gross state product, with the Mackay region accounting for approximately 70% of that figure.

QME owner and organiser Reed Exhibitions’ industrial exhibitions director, John Gorton, said visitors will include representatives from the major mining houses and contractors in the region, as well as thousands of contractors, suppliers, repair and maintenance service providers that cater for the mining sector.

“While QME 2006 has been built on the back of a Queensland mining sector operating at full capacity due to the unprecedented worldwide demand for our resources, its key value is in its proven ability to deliver high-quality visitors,” he said.

“We also anticipate strong participation from countries and regions around the world – in particular, delegations from China, with this country well represented at the 2004 QME.”

Products on display will range from some of the latest mining equipment, components and support equipment, through to mine safety, management, automation, electrical and fuel systems and services.

In addition, a significant number of new products and services will have their Australian launches at QME.

“The number of exhibitors, combined with the sheer range of products and services on offer, means that visitors to the exhibition will gain an excellent overview of industry-leading equipment and related services on offer to the mining sector in 2006,” said Gorton.

Held every two years since its inception in 1993, QME has grown to include not only mining, but also the construction and agricultural sectors. The exhibitions now provide a definitive overview of the products and services available to the mining, quarrying, construction and agricultural sectors.

Gorton said QME 2004 was considered by the majority of exhibitors and visitors to be the most impressive exposition so far – and considering the strong growth of the mining sector over the past two years, he anticipated this year to be an even bigger and better display.

In the lead-up to QME 2006, International Longwall News will introduce readers to a selection of leading mining industry companies that are set to showcase their products and services at the exhibition.

International Longwall News will also provide readers with regular updates and highlights from the expo when it begins on July 25.