Queensland’s premier mining gathering is only weeks away, with exhibitors and attendees gearing up to converge on Mackay for three days of innovation, connection and industry insight.
With a fully sold-out show floor, the Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition (QME) 2026 has made its mark before the event even kicks off – signalling just how important the gathering has become to Queensland’s regional mining calendar.
Returning to the Mackay Showgrounds on July 21–23, the exhibition will bring together thousands of professionals and hundreds of suppliers, continuing the strong growth that saw more than 5000 attendees walk through the doors in 2024.
That sustained interest reflects what QME has built over time: a reputation as a grounded, industry-led space where real problems get real answers.
From major machinery and automation systems to safety solutions and digital innovation, QME provides one of the best opportunities to see the sector’s newest and most exciting developments up close and in action.
Surrounded by one of the world’s most productive mining regions, Mackay continues to play a central role in supporting Queensland’s resources sector, with the Bowen Basin driving demand for smarter operations, reliable equipment, and practical mining solutions, making QME the place that brings all of those under one roof.
One of the biggest drawcards at QME 2026 is the sheer scale of innovation on display across the showground.
This year’s floor features hundreds of exhibitors showcasing technology and equipment designed to improve productivity, support safer operations and help sites tackle the challenges of modern mining.
Visitors to QME can expect to see the latest developments across automation, electrification, communications, asset management, maintenance, processing, fleet optimisation and workplace safety.
The outdoor exhibition space will feature large-scale machinery and live demonstrations, bringing mining equipment out of brochures and into the real world.
QME presents the chance to climb aboard – sometimes literally – ask questions and experience the technology firsthand.
The Mining Pavilion is also returning, serving as a focal point for visitors seeking direct engagement with operators. Major industry names, including Glencore, BHP Mitsubishi Alliance, Mackellar Group, Stanmore Resources and Whitehaven Coal, will be represented, providing a rare opportunity to connect with decision-makers from across the sector.
“The Mining Pavilion has always been where the industry comes together,” Prime Creative Media relationships manager mining events Rebecca Todesco said.
“It gives visitors direct access to the people behind major operations, while giving mining companies a powerful platform to engage, share insights and build lasting connections.”
Moving past the exhibition floor, the three-day conference program will deliver forward-looking insights into the trends shaping Queensland’s mining sector.
Industry leaders and policy-makers will take to the stage to explore key themes, including the transition from coal to critical minerals, sustainability, workforce development and the integration of emerging technologies.
Speakers will include Queensland Resources Council chief executive officer (CEO) Janette Hewson, Minerals Council of Australia CEO Tania Constable, CSIRO senior research geophysicist Wayne Stasinowsky and Queensland Mine Rehabilitation Commissioner James Purtill, among other key industry figures.
The event has become a meeting point for the people who keep the industry moving, from operators and engineers to contractors, suppliers and decision-makers.
It’s where ideas are exchanged, partnerships begin, and the next big innovation often gets unveiled.
Safety also remains a major focus, with exhibitors showcasing a wide range of solutions designed to improve workplace safety and support workers across mining environments.
From monitoring technology and fatigue management systems to communications platforms and maintenance solutions, safety innovation can be found across every corner of the event, with many of these technologies being shaped through direct collaboration with mining operations, ensuring solutions remain practical and effective.
With strong demand already evident and the countdown underway, Mackay is once again set to host one of Queensland’s most significant mining gatherings, bringing the industry together in a single, dynamic setting.
Tickets for QME 2026 can be secured at the Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition website.
