The Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition (QME) is set to return in July 2026, and anticipation is building in the industry.
Mackay is poised to be the backdrop of one of the country’s major mining events as it hosts the return of the Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition (QME).
From July 21-23, 2026, the industry will experience Queensland’s largest regional mining showcase at Mackay Showgrounds.
Three decades in, and QME continues to be central to all things mining in Mackay and the broader Queensland industry, as one of the leading showcases of supplier innovation and excellence within the mining sector.
Anticipation is already ramping up, with 80 per cent of the exhibition space already sold and limited outdoor space remaining. The event will feature three full days of live technology demonstrations, insightful thought leadership, and a celebration of regional mining excellence.
QME 2026 will see the return of its industry-leading exhibition and leadership series, as well as the return of the highly anticipated QME Mining Pavilion and Decarbonisation Showcase. Hundreds of suppliers will be showcasing across the exhibition floor, including industry heavyweights Milwaukee Tool, Hitachi Construction Machinery, Fulton Hogan, Epiroc, Hastings Deering, Brooks/XCMD, and Flexco Australia, who have all signed on for what is shaping up to be one of the biggest and best editions of QME ever.
Prime Creative Media show director of mining events, Rebecca Todesco, said that the energy surrounding QME 2026 continues to intensify after a successful edition in 2024.
“We’re incredibly excited to bring QME back to Mackay in 2026,” Todesco said.
“This event is where innovation, collaboration, and opportunity come together. “We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone to three days packed with innovation, learning, and networking.”
During the exhibition, visitors can discover and connect with hundreds of industry-leading exhibitors across the show floor. There will be both indoor and outdoor displays showcasing innovative equipment, including live demonstrations.
QME 2026 will feature a free-to-attend series addressing the current needs of Queensland’s mining industry. Visitors can hear directly from industry experts, who will share valuable insight into the most pressing issues and opportunities.
The return of the highly anticipated QME Mining Pavilion will provide a vibrant hub where mining companies and major contractors can showcase their latest projects, innovations, and initiatives.
The Mining Pavilion gives attendees a unique opportunity to engage directly with the organisations driving Queensland’s mining future, offering insights into procurement and partnership opportunities, and helping build meaningful connections within the thriving mining community.
Returning in 2026 is QME’s Decarbonisation Showcase, shining a light on the technologies, strategies, and services that help mining companies meet their ESG obligations whilst improving efficiency. The showcase will feature cutting-edge solutions across renewable energy, low-emission technologies, electrification, and sustainable practices designed to future-proof mining operations.
Queensland’s peak resources body, the Queensland Resources Council (QRC), and the Bowen Basin Mining Club (BBMC) are also throwing their support behind QME 2026.
The Bowen Basin Mining Club’s Queensland Mining Awards will once again return and be held alongside QME in Mackay. The black-tie Gala Dinner will celebrate the businesses and personnel innovation, excellence, and collaboration within Queensland’s mining sector. BBMC’s presence fosters networking and partnership opportunities that showcase Queensland’s leadership in mining equipment, technology, and services innovation.
For delegates seeking to expand their professional network and connect with others in the industry, the QME networking function offers a great opportunity to connect with familiar faces and meet new faces.
QME 2026 welcomes the support of two key sponsors, Pirtek and Hitachi Construction Machinery. Pirtek and Hitachi Construction Machinery will be at the forefront as sponsors of the QME leadership series. This platform provides modern thought leadership and fosters strategic conversations to shape the future of the mining industry.
With exhibition space rapidly filling and excitement building, QME 2026 stands as the must-attend event for anyone serious about mining in Queensland. It’s where the sector’s biggest deals and boldest, most innovative ideas are fully realised, right in the heart of Mackay. •
For more information, visit queenslandminingexpo.com.au/get-involved.
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