First look: Inside Mackay’s world-class resource hub
Finishing touches added to $7 million world-class facility.
Mackay
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THE finishing touches are being added to the first stage of Mackay's world class resources project.
Treasurer Cameron Dick on Thursday inspected the $7 million Mackay Resources Centre of Excellence which has created about 22 direct and indirect jobs during construction.
Mr Dick said the centre would ensure the region remained one of the world's best sources for mining expertise and innovation in the mining equipment, technology and services sector.
"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," he said.
Mackay MP Julieanne Gilbert said the facility boasted training spaces akin to a "living lab" environment for industry training providers and private METS companies.
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"Importantly, the centre will create enormous opportunities for local apprentices to further develop their skills, cementing the region as the hub for resources in Queensland," she said.
Fergus Builders have completed construction of an administration building, workshop and laboratory, landscaping and utilities.
Attention will now turn to the other features of the centre, with an underground mining simulator and virtual reality training area still yet to be completed.
Mr Walter said RIN would explore funding options to finish the rest of the centre.
An official opening date is expected in the coming months.
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"COVID-19 has certainly had an impact on the finishing of the facility," Mr Walter said.
"The idea behind this centre is to facilitate the development of technology that we can distribute overseas."
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said the project would become a key landmark for the city.
"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," Cr Williamson said.
The Resource Centre of Excellence was jointly funded by the State Government and Mackay Regional Council.
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