Quick Answer
QME 2026 — the Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition — runs from Tuesday 21 July to Thursday 23 July 2026 at the Mackay Showgrounds, Milton Street, Mackay QLD.
- Day 1 — Tuesday 21 July 2026: 10:00am – 5:00pm
- Day 2 — Wednesday 22 July 2026: 10:00am – 5:00pm
- Day 3 — Thursday 23 July 2026: 10:00am – 4:00pm
Trade registration is free. Register online via the official QME 2026 website.
When is QME 2026?
QME 2026 runs Tuesday 21 July to Thursday 23 July 2026. It's a three-day trade exhibition, held every two years, and 2026 marks the next edition after QME 2024. If you work in Queensland's mining and heavy engineering supply chain, this is the biggest week of the year outside of Diggers & Dealers.
The dates fall in the middle of the Queensland dry season, which is deliberate — travel in and out of Mackay is far more reliable in July, and site shutdown crews across the Bowen Basin can plan around it.
QME 2026 dates & opening hours
Hours are subject to change. Always confirm on the official QME website closer to the event.
Where is QME 2026?
QME 2026 is held at the Mackay Showgrounds, Milton Street, Mackay QLD 4740 — the traditional home of the Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition. The showgrounds sit about 10 minutes from Mackay Airport (MKY) and 5 minutes from the Mackay CBD, with on-site parking and shuttle buses running throughout the event.
Mackay Showgrounds, Milton Street, Mackay QLD 4740
~10 min drive from Mackay Airport (MKY) — direct flights from Brisbane, Sydney, Cairns and Townsville.
Book early — Mackay hotels sell out months in advance for QME. Aim to lock in flights and a room by March 2026.
Free trade registration via the official QME website.
How often is QME held?
QME is a biennial event — it runs every two years. Recent editions include QME 2022, QME 2024 and now QME 2026. The next edition after that is expected in July 2028. Because of the two-year gap, product launches, OEM demos and vendor announcements at QME are usually bigger than at annual industry events.
Which day of QME 2026 should mining contractors attend?
If you can only spare one day out of the roster, most seasoned attendees pick Wednesday 22 July. That's when the floor is fullest, all live demos are running, and networking functions are on. Tuesday is quieter — good for detailed technical conversations with exhibitors before the crowds arrive. Thursday wraps at 4pm and is best for wrapping up supplier quotes and following up on Wednesday's leads.
If you're evaluating software or equipment for FY27 — jobs, workshop, safety, rostering, payroll — try to book supplier meetings in advance so you're not queueing at busy stands on Wednesday.
QME 2026 pre-trip checklist
- Register free online and download your badge before the event.
- Book flights and Mackay accommodation early — ideally by March 2026.
- Map out priority stands using the official exhibitor list.
- Pre-book supplier meetings for Wednesday 22 July (peak day).
- Pack site-appropriate boots and PPE — some demos are outdoors.
- Line up FY27 software and equipment shortlists before you walk the floor.
Want the plain-english background on what QME actually is? Read our companion guide: What is QME 2026? A Quick Guide for Mining Contractors.
