Advance Rockhampton attracts key mining figures to the region

Published on 05 September 2024

Leading representatives from Queensland’s resources sector are in the Rockhampton Region this week to participate in vital networking events supported by Council’s lead economic development agency, Advance Rockhampton.

The Bowen Basin Mining Club Luncheon was hosted in Rockhampton today, connecting local businesses with resources representatives and politicians. The luncheon included keynote presentations from Queensland Resources Council (QRC) CEO, Janette Hewson and Whitehaven Coal CEO, Paul Flynn as well as opportunities for Rockhampton Region businesses to network with industry leaders.

Council resolved in April to continue its longstanding support of the luncheon, providing $5,000 (plus GST) in sponsorship to bring the event to Rockhampton.

Mayor Tony Williams has encouraged businesses to make the most of this opportunity.

“The Rockhampton Region has so much to offer the resources sector, and this is another example of local businesses putting their best foot forward and demonstrating that,” Mayor Williams said.

“Our region is renowned for its talented workforce and diverse businesses which provide unmatched support and connectivity to the growing minerals sector and coal mines on our doorstep.

“Council, through Advance Rockhampton is proud to see the Bowen Basin Mining Club return for another year and facilitate discussions between the mining industry and our community.”

Last night, Advance Rockhampton also offered space to the Queensland Resources Council for its Resources Roundup. This free event included an update on the resources industry in the Rockhampton Region, and its economic benefits.

QRC data estimates the resources industry to be worth $2.4 billion to the Rockhampton Region economy, supporting almost a third of local jobs.

Chief Executive Officer, Janette Hewson, said QRC values the support of Advance Rockhampton for the industry as important regional partner.

“Rockhampton may be known as the Beef Capital but it also the major centre of a region that is a powerhouse of Queensland’s resources sector,” Ms Hewson said.

“QRC shares Advance Rockhampton’s goal of promoting more business and job opportunities in the region and the resources sector has a key role to play in achieving that.

“QRC members value their regional partnerships with local suppliers and community organisations who make such an important contribution to the success of the resources sector.

“Resources companies spent $839 million in the 2022/23 financial year supporting more than 600 local businesses in Rockhampton which provides significant economic flow on benefits for the region.”

Advance Rockhampton Economic Development Manager, Wade Clark, said there is strong momentum for the local resources industry.

“These events offer unrivalled collaboration between businesses and the resources industry and follow strong enquires after our attendance at the Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition and the ‘All Roads Lead to Rocky’ campaign,” Mr Clark said.

More information on the Rockhampton Region’s resources industry can be found here - https://www.advancerockhampton.com.au/Industry/Resources-Industry