Mining symposium at MECC

Mackay is playing host to 550 mining industry delegates from around Australia and the Pacific at the Bowen Basin Symposium at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre.

Held every five years, this is the first time the symposium has been held in Mackay.

Mayor Col Meng said the international conference, which starts today, was another opportunity to showcase the region’s attributes.

“It is usually held in Brisbane so this is a real credit to the MECC and our region that we have managed to secure such a conference,” he said.

“There are significant economic benefits to local business and accommodation providers.”

The three-day symposium will discuss coal industry examples of technical innovation and detail new initiatives relating to coal and land use.

Technical papers, workshops and trade displays provide a benchmark for information relevant to mining producers and marketers of coal and natural gas.

Community Services and Facilities portfolio councillor Karen May said the MECC continued to set the benchmark for centres in regional Australia.

“There is continual praise for the centre and its staff, which is evident by hosting a symposium of this calibre,” she said.

The Bowen Basin is the largest coal reserve in Australia with 34 operational coal mines extracting over 100 million tonnes annually.

Convention Precinct Manager Mark Fawcett said it was an extremely busy week for the civic precinct.

“We are utilising every available space for the conference and catering for up to 2,500 people every day with the Eisteddfod,” he said

Contact: Ken Furdek

Phone: 1300 MACKAY (1300 622 529)