The Queensland Mining Awards officially launched yesterday at the Queensland Resources Council’s Annual State of the Sector luncheon, marking another year of recognising world-leading innovation and achievement in the state’s resources sector.
The Awards are hosted by the Bowen Basin Mining Club and supported by the Queensland Resources Council (QRC), providing a unique platform for contractors, suppliers and producers to showcase their capabilities in an increasingly competitive market.
QRC Chief Executive Officer Janette Hewson says the Awards play a vital role in spotlighting the sector’s contribution to Queensland’s economy and technological leadership.
“The Queensland mining sector remains a pillar of the state’s economy, even with challenging coal prices and cost increases. The sector supports 1 in every 5 jobs in Queensland and contributed $115.2 billion to the economy last year, including $7.9 billion in royalties to fund the roads, hospitals and frontline staff that Queensland needs to be a great place to live,” said Ms Hewson.
“The involvement of businesses big and small drives this contribution every day, and we’re so proud to continue in our 12th year of supporting the Queensland Mining Awards as a vital part of recognising the work and innovation that continues to make our mining sector competitive.”
Projects and innovations implemented between April 2024 and April 2026 are eligible to enter the Award, which are peer-judged by a panel drawn from the industry’s C-suite. The transparent judging process provides valuable feedback to all finalists, and in some cases, has led to business opportunities between judges and participants.
Entries are judged across eight categories encompassing productivity, safety, technology, innovation, engagement, and environmental excellence, with finalists and winners presented in front of a 600-strong crowd at the Gala Dinner, to be held during the 2026 Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition (QME) in Mackay.
The 2024 Awards saw underground mining supplier StrataLock take out the coveted Queensland Mining Contractor of the Year title. StrataLock’s innovative resin re-engineered traditional strata stabilisation techniques, replacing hazardous chemicals and reducing fire risk while delivering productivity gains and cost savings. The seven-year development journey impressed judges with its comprehensive approach to solving a longstanding industry challenge.
Bowen Basin Mining Club Director Jodie Currie says the Awards provide critical differentiation opportunities for both contractors and mining companies as the market tightens.
“With budgets under pressure and competition intensifying, the Awards form the perfect platform for businesses to demonstrate their value proposition and zone of genius. Our peer-judged model means entrants are showcasing their capabilities directly to the decision-makers who matter most – the people who hold the procurement power across Queensland’s major mining operations.”
“The calibre of entries continues to rise each year, and we’re already seeing strong interest from businesses eager to stand out in a more challenging market. Industry awards aren’t just about recognition – they’re a powerful business development tool that builds credibility and opens doors,” said Ms Currie.
The 2026 Awards see Mackay Regional Council and QME returning as partners, and sponsorships are available across multiple categories and levels of recognition.
Award Entries will open on Monday January 19, 2026. Find out more about categories, questions and last year’s winners here.
