Visitors will include representatives from major mining houses and contractors as well as from thousands of suppliers, repair and maintenance service providers and contractors who cater for the mining sector.

Reed Exhibitions industrial exhibitions director John Gorton said the involvement of these major mining companies was an indication of the importance of QME to the economy of central Queensland.

“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.

Strong participation is also anticipated from countries and regions around the world – in particular, delegations from China, who had a strong representation at QME 2004.

Gorton said with more than 470 exhibitors showing the latest mining and related equipment, along with componentry and associated services, QME would provide a definitive overview of the products and services available to the mining sector.

“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,” he said.

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.

“What’s more, central Queensland-based participants in the mining, construction and agricultural sectors will be able to view all these products without having to leave their own region,” Gorton said.

The exhibition will be held in Mackay on July 25-27 and is scheduled to be opened by Queensland Deputy Premier Anna Bligh.