Mining show moves into Muswellbrook

Coal shipments through the Port of Newcastle are close to record levels, mining expansion and development projects that were put on hold or delayed last year with the onset of the Global Financial Crisis are gearing up again, and some major infrastructure projects are about to kick off.
Mining & Energy (M&E) NSW, organised by Reed Exhibitions, and part of a structured program of resources industry events organised and managed by REEDMININGEVENTS, will be held at the Muswellbrook Showground.
Held every four years – alternating with the Asia-Pacific’s International Mining Exhibition (AIMEX) held in Sydney – M&E NSW is occurring against a background of strong activity in the Hunter Region.
This year’s show is on track to attract over 170 exhibitors, ranging from heavy equipment suppliers, suppliers of specialist equipment and products, through to a large number of big and small service providers, said Soren Norgaard, Reed Exhibitions’ exhibition manager, mining and construction events.
“The significant upturn in activity that’s just getting underway in the Hunter Valley provides a compelling reason to visit M&E NSW and see the latest products and services coming onto the market.
“In addition, over the next few weeks we will be announcing some exciting related events, which will give those attending the show an excellent insight into upcoming levels of activity in the region, and where the opportunities will lie,” he said.
Carolyn O’Brien, Economic Development Officer with Muswellbrook Shire Council, said the region is looking forward to further mining and infrastructure development over the next few years, which will result in a major boost to economic activity in the region.
“These include pre-production works on Xstrata’s $1.1 billion Mangoola Coal Mine now well under way, with the mine due to start production in the middle of next year – having been put back some months due to the Global Financial Crisis,” she said.
“We also have BHP Billiton beginning initial community consultation on the expansion of Mt Arthur.
“This will see consolidation and expansion in area and an increase in the number of people it employs, making it one of the largest thermal coal mines in NSW,” she said.
“On the infrastructure side, contracts are being let for the Muswellbrook-Gunnedah and Muswellbrook-Ulan rail links. Once constructed, they will substantially increase the freight capacity from the region.
O’Brien said the employment situation has stabilised, and there have not been the skills shortages of a few years ago; however, demand for workers is likely to rise again significantly as these mines go into production.

For more information visit: www.reedminingevents.com.au