Continuing the Conversation 2026
Thursday, September 17 @ 8:00 am - 1:00 pm
THE CONVERSATION CONTINUES: YOU SPOKE. WE’VE LISTENED.
JOIN US FOR VALUABLE INSIGHTS AND SITES TOURS!
Decarbonisation Accelerated: Continuing the Conversation
Following the success of our inaugural Continuing the Conversation event in 2025, businesses, industry leaders, and stakeholders will come together once again to explore the practical opportunities emerging through decarbonisation, diversification and innovation.
This year’s event is focused on implementation. What does change look like in practice? How are businesses adapting, identifying new opportunities, and positioning themselves for future growth?
Across the day, attendees will hear from leading voices in decarbonisation and diversification, including two keynote presentations that will challenge thinking, share practical insights and explore the pathways ahead for industry and regional businesses.
Featured speakers include Arron Wood AM, one of Australia’s leading advocates for sustainability and business-led climate action, and Deb Archbold, a recognised expert in major projects, local content and supply chain development. Their sessions will provide practical insights into navigating change, strengthening competitiveness and identifying future opportunities for growth.
One of the strongest messages from last year’s attendee feedback was clear: people wanted to see more real-world examples in action.
We listened.
For the first time, site tours will form a key part of the program, giving participants the opportunity to step beyond the conference room and explore local examples of decarbonisation, diversification and innovation in practice. These visits will showcase how businesses are responding to industry change and creating new opportunities for growth.
The event will also explore key themes including:
- Decarbonisation and ESG
- Diversification into emerging industries
- Technology and innovation
Presented by Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) in partnership with the Queensland Manufacturing Hubs Program, this event is designed to connect industry, share practical experiences and help businesses navigate an evolving operating environment.
Places are strictly limited due to the inclusion of site tours and venue capacity.
SITE TOUR HOSTS
CSE Linked
CSE Linked is engineering practical decarbonisation from the ground up. Headquartered in Mackay at a fully off-grid commercial and manufacturing facility, CSE Linked is at the forefront of regional decarbonisation, clean energy innovation, and industrial diversification.
CSE Linked specialise in the design, local manufacture, and deployment of commercial solar, battery storage, and hybrid power systems engineered specifically for the harsh conditions of regional, remote, and heavy industrial operations. From mobile mine-spec solar trailers (EcoHub) and deployable hybrid power units (ECOG3N) to large-scale commercial solar carports (EcoPort), CSE Linked demonstrates how regional businesses can transition away from diesel dependence, cut carbon emissions, and build true energy resilience.
Attendees will get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how clean-tech hardware is locally engineered, assembled, and deployed right here in Mackay to decarbonise heavy industry across Australia.
FMS Group
FMS Group is integrating sustainability and operational excellence across its maintenance and engineering operations. Headquartered in Mackay and operating nationally, FMS Group delivers maintenance, shutdown and project services to the resources sector, with diversification into construction and energy projects.
With more than 800 employees across Australia, FMS Group continues to strengthen its approach to responsible business through initiatives spanning emissions reduction, renewable energy investment, workforce development and community partnerships. In 2026, the organisation established its first greenhouse gas emissions baseline.
FMS Group has also invested in renewable energy infrastructure at its Paget operations, including solar photovoltaic systems and battery energy storage. In FY26, 50% of energy consumed at the Paget facility, including the heavy fabrication workshop, was sourced from renewable energy.
Attendees will gain an insight into how a major regional employer is embedding sustainability initiatives while supporting workforce development, operational resilience and long-term business performance.
If you’re looking to stay ahead of industry change, discover new opportunities and connect with others shaping the future of the Greater Whitsunday region, secure your ticket early.
Register now and be part of the conversation.
