TECHNOLOGY

VR resources training lab for Mackay

A VIRTUAL reality training lab for the resources industry has been opened at the Resources Centre of Excellence in Mackay, Queensland, to provide faster and more diverse training options for workers.

 Queensland resources minister Scott Stewart said developing a highly skilled and adaptable workforce was a key component of the government’s plan for the resources sector.

Queensland resources minister Scott Stewart said developing a highly skilled and adaptable workforce was a key component of the government’s plan for the resources sector.

The Queensland government committed an extra $5.7 million in funding to expand the centre to support emerging industry needs.

Developed by Next World Enterprises, the virtual reality training software provides immersive scenarios to help students understand the high-risk environment and potential hazards without compromising their safety.

The launch coincided with the second Resources Ministerial Advisory Group meeting, bringing together government and resource industry leaders to drive Queensland's 30-year-plan for the resources sector.

Queensland resources minister Scott Stewart said developing a highly skilled and adaptable workforce was a key component of the government's plan for the resources sector that would enable the state to drive innovation and growth for decades to come.

"This week we announced $963,000 in funding for the Queensland Resources Council to establish a digital hub that will assist the industry in attracting and retaining a more diversified and inclusive workforce," he said.

"By working in partnership with industry leaders and peak bodies through our Ministerial Advisory Group, we are building a strong foundation to future-proof Queensland's resources industry.

In addition to the virtual reality training lab, the Resources Centre boasts a 6800sq.m Underground Simulator Mining Facility that replicates the physical conditions of working underground.

Resources Centre of Excellence chief executive Stephen Boxall said the virtual reality training lab was the result of an 18-month collaboration with Next World Enterprises.

"It showcases the incredible depth of talent we have in Queensland to produce this cutting-edge technology," he said.

Next World Enterprises chief executive Michael O'Reilly said the training lab accelerated the learning curve for users so business could up-skill workers faster for the needs of future industry.

"We've designed our cutting-edge virtual reality software to enhance the learner's engagement and foster a deep comprehension of the training topic," he said.

"It is also a win for business, as it increases productivity and minimises downtime due to injury from ineffective training.

"Next World is a major Queensland technology success story. Starting in 2018, we are now in the top-three globally in its field."

 

 

 

A growing series of reports, each focused on a key discussion point for the mining sector, brought to you by the Mining Monthly Intelligence team.

A growing series of reports, each focused on a key discussion point for the mining sector, brought to you by the Mining Monthly Intelligence team.

editions

Mining Magazine Intelligence Future Fleets Report 2024

The report paints a picture of the equipment landscape and includes detailed profiles of mines that are employing these fleets

editions

Mining Magazine Intelligence Digitalisation Report 2023

An in-depth review of operations that use digitalisation technology to drive improvements across all areas of mining production

editions

Mining Magazine Intelligence Automation Report 2023

An in-depth review of operations using autonomous solutions in every region and sector, including analysis of the factors driving investment decisions

editions

Mining Magazine Intelligence Exploration Report 2023 (feat. Opaxe data)

A comprehensive review of current exploration rates, trending exploration technologies, a ranking of top drill intercepts and a catalogue of 2022 Initial Resource Estimates and recent discovery successes.