The 2016 Awards will be held in conjunction with the Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition (QME) which was also launched in Mackay.

Currie said she expects a high calibre of entries this year.

“The 2014 Awards truly made an impact, as the wider mining industry realised there are some very smart operators here in Queensland. I’m excited to see that standard lifted even higher with our 2016 Awards,” she said.

The awards will assess entries from mining contractors across time and cost saving, innovation, community and staff engagement categories, as well as the best QME product launch.

One company will also be recognised by the independent judging panel as the Mining Contractor of the Year for outstanding overall performance.

Exhibitions Director of REEDMININGEVENTS, Robby Clark helped launch the Awards in Mackay, and said it makes sense for the Awards to align with QME.

“QME is the premier mining trade show in Queensland, so there’s no better place to recognise and reward the players that make the Queensland mining industry what it is,” he said.

“As mining vendors from across the world gather in Mackay, it’s a pleasure to work with the BBMC to promote the Queensland mining industry as the Awards enter their second year.”

Winners will be announced at a gala presentation dinner during QME 2016 in Mackay.

Mackay Mayor Deirdre Comerford said mining services are a significant industry for the Mackay region, employing close to 4,000 residents directly and supporting an additional 20,000 jobs.

Projects delivered in Queensland between April 2014 and December 2015 will be eligible for entry to the Awards. Size and scope of the contracting companies are not a limiting factor.

The Awards are partnered by REEDMININGEVENTS, Mackay Regional Council and Downer Group.