Mackay Resources Centre of Excellence making progress

QRC Chief Executive Ian Macfarlane said the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment of AUS$3.6 million for the Centre was a commitment in confidence in the sector, its development and adoption of cutting-edge technology as well as acknowledging the industry’s contribution to jobs, exports and the broader economy.

Macfarlane, who will be attending the Queensland Mining Industry Awards in Mackay tonight, said the QRC and its members would continue to work with the Palaszczuk Government and the Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick on the development of the Centre to maximise its contribution to the resources industry and the Mackay region.

“The resources sector contributes more than AUS$1 billion in wages alone to the Mackay region. Due to the strengthening of the mining sector, Mackay has the lowest unemployment rate in Queensland at 3.8% and there are currently more than 500 jobs advertised online in the mining, resources and energy sector in the Mackay region,” Macfarlane said.

“Mackay is supported by its peak industry association the Resource Industry Network (RIN), which plays a crucial role in ensuring the city is front and center for investments in building regional capabilities, especially through education and innovation.”

The Centre will include an underground coal mine simulator which will be available for testing, demonstrating and filming new equipment and products operating in confined spaces.

It will also enable new emergency response procedures to be practiced and refined, and will allow tourists to experience what it is like working in an underground coal mine.

Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/mining/25072018/mackay-resources-centre-of-excellence-making-progress/