Mackay METS centre to boost mining supply chain

The centre is valued at $7 million and was jointly funded by the Queensland Government and Mackay Regional Council.

It will put the resources sector at the forefront, in time for Queensland’s post-coronavirus economic recovery.

According to Dick, the Mackay Resources Centre of Excellence is a strategic investment in job creation for the industry and the region.

“This Centre of Excellence will ensure that the Mackay region remains one of the world’s best sources for mining expertise and innovation in the mining equipment, technology and services (METS) sector,” he said.

“Featuring a simulated underground coal mine for training and research, including emergency response, the centre will provide training and education, biomedical research, product innovation and demonstration and help to create the jobs and skills of the future.

“Making sure we have a skilled workforce to take advantage of these opportunities is an important part of Queensland’s road to recovery from the global coronavirus pandemic.”

The centre will create about 22 direct and indirect jobs and once open, on top of opportunities for apprentices to develop their skills in the training facility.

It is being built by local construction company Fergus Builders, demonstrating the Queensland Government’s commitment to utilising and developing local skills and workers.

Mackay Regional Council mayor Greg Williamson is pleased that the centre is about to be completed on time and on budget.

“This project is a great example of council working together with (the) state government and industry to deliver what will become a key landmark for Mackay as an international METS hub,” Williamson said.

“We have the expertise of the Resource Industry Network to operate the centre and they will be actively showcasing the capabilities of the facility to international audiences at resource sector events and conferences when they recommence.”