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DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260224T080000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260224T120000
DTSTAMP:20260428T044333Z
CREATED:20260216T005931Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T044333Z
UID:11070-1771920000-1771934400@greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au
SUMMARY:METS & MORE Diversification Forum 2026
DESCRIPTION:About the Forum\nThe Greater Whitsunday region is home to world-class METS (Mining Equipment\, Technology & Services) and manufacturing capability. But as global markets shift\, resilience means thinking beyond mining. The METS & MORE Diversification Forum is designed to help regional businesses explore practical pathways to new markets\, modern manufacturing\, and emerging sectors like critical minerals. \nThis half-day event\, brought to you by Greater Whitsunday Alliance and the Queensland Government’s Manufacturing Hubs Program\, brings together industry leaders\, innovators\, and government representatives to share insights\, strategies\, and actionable steps for diversification. Expect candid conversations about what works\, what doesn’t\, and how to leverage existing strengths to unlock new opportunities. \n  \nProgram Overview\nKeynote Address\nBeyond Raw Commodities: Securing Australia’s Future with High-Value Manufacturing\nDr Jens Goennemann\, Managing Director of the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre (AMGC)\, will unpack what modern manufacturing really looks like – and why diversification is now essential for Australia’s industrial future. Rather than treating manufacturing as just another “sector”\, Dr Goennemann reframes it as a national capability – a system that turns ideas into physical value by combining design\, engineering\, materials\, data and skilled labour across every part of the economy. \nDrawing on AMGC’s deep insights\, Dr Goennemann will challenge outdated notions of production versus manufacturing and show how today’s industry is defined by complex value chains\, intermediate goods trade and regional capability. With a particular focus on the METS sector\, he will explore how Australia’s economy remains heavily skewed toward raw mineral extraction – and why moving up the value chain is critical to long-term resilience. \nUsing Harvard Business School’s Economic Complexity Index\, he will compare Australia with advanced economies and map practical pathways for diversification through short jumps into adjacent industries. Real-world AMGC case studies – from road tankers to space\, plumbing to medical devices\, and gas turbines to wind – will illustrate how firms are already transforming. The session concludes with clear\, actionable tips to help businesses start their own diversification journey through niche focus\, collaboration and innovation. \n  \nPanel Discussion\nDiversification Done Right – Lessons from the METS Front Line\nDiversification is rarely a straight line — and for METS businesses\, it’s often shaped as much by operational reality as by strategy. This panel brings together three experienced practitioners who understand METS from the inside out: business owners and advisors who have lived the challenges of scale\, capability stretch\, new markets\, and changing customer demands. \nFacilitated by Deb Allan\, Manager of the Mackay Manufacturing Hub\, this discussion will focus on practical\, real‑world experiences and lessons learned from working with METS businesses every day. Panelists will share candid insights into the systems\, decisions\, and trade‑offs that matter most when METS businesses look to expand into adjacent sectors\, manufacturing\, or new supply chains. \nThe session will examine common pitfalls\, enablers of success\, and the practical steps businesses can take to build resilience without over‑extending. Attendees will gain grounded perspectives on how to align strategy\, operations\, and capability to support sustainable growth in a rapidly evolving industrial landscape. \nThis is a conversation for METS businesses navigating change — honest\, experience‑driven\, and focused on what actually works. \n  \nSpecial Presentation: From Minerals to Manufacturing\nPaul Holden\, Lead for Critical Minerals Queensland\, will deliver a special address exploring the rapidly evolving critical minerals landscape and what it means for Queensland and regional diversification. His presentation will provide a clear “lay of the land\,” examining current global and domestic political dynamics shaping critical minerals supply chains\, investment decisions\, and national priorities—and how Australia is positioning itself within this shifting environment. \nPaul will connect these broader forces to what is happening on the ground here in Greater Whitsunday and across Queensland\, with particular reference to opportunities emerging in Townsville\, the Isaac region and the North West. Grounded in the realities of the current political climate\, he will reflect on the importance of regional strengths and coordination as the critical minerals “jigsaw” comes together. \nThe presentation will conclude with a forward-looking positioning piece\, highlighting future opportunities for local value-adding\, downstream processing and manufacturing\, and what the critical minerals agenda could mean for long-term economic diversification and resilience in regional Queensland. \n  \nThe De-risking Engine: Translating Critical Minerals Strategy into Regional Reality\nFollowing Paul Holden’s overview of the critical minerals landscape\, Jason Sharam will provide a deep dive into the physical infrastructure now driving this diversification in the Greater Whitsunday region. \nJason will update the forum on the activation of the RCOE FlexiLab pilot plant. Now operational\, the FlexiLab serves as a critical bridge for METS businesses\, allowing for the technical demonstration and “de-risking” of mineral processing technologies at TRL 4-6. This is where the theoretical opportunity of critical minerals meets the practical capability of Mackay’s engineering and technical sector. \nLooking over the horizon\, Jason will introduce Stage 3 of the RCOE—the Isaac Resource Excellence Precinct (IREP). He will outline how IREP is being designed as a dedicated precinct for mineral reprocessing and circular economy innovation. By providing the facilities to test and scale value-add processes right here in the region\, the RCOE and IREP are ensuring that local METS businesses aren’t just observers of the critical minerals boom\, but are the primary architects of the downstream value chain. \n  \nActionable Steps\nLearn about the programs\, networks\, & resources that can help them take the next step. \n  \nBreakout Sessions\nSmall group short sessions to ask questions\, learn\, and sign up/register interest for various programs to support diversification. \n  \nWho Should Attend?\n\nMETS businesses looking to expand into adjacent sectors\nManufacturers exploring new markets\nRegional innovators and supply chain partners\nAnyone committed to building a resilient\, future-ready economy\n\n  \n* Program subject to change.
URL:https://greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au/event/mets-more-diversification-forum-2026/
LOCATION:Resources Centre of Excellence\, 65 Crichtons Road\, Paget\, QLD\, 4740\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Diversification
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260513T120000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260513T170000
DTSTAMP:20260430T000056Z
CREATED:20260428T043020Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260430T000056Z
UID:11419-1778673600-1778691600@greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au
SUMMARY:ZeroIN: Irrigation
DESCRIPTION:ZeroIN: IRRIGATION\nIrrigation decisions don’t happen in isolation — they’re about cost\, risk\, energy and long-term business performance. \n  \nThis ZeroIn session brings together growers\, industry and technology providers to unpack what’s really involved in irrigation upgrades — and what it takes to move from interest to confident investment. \n  \nThe morning workshop will explore: \n\nHow irrigation fits into broader farm business decisions\, not just infrastructure\nEnergy use and cost management – presented by SRA\, including tools like FEATOnline to better understand and predict your energy inputs\nReal on-farm experience\, hearing from local cane grower Tony Bugeja on how irrigation has shaped his business and decision-making\nInnovation readiness – presented by the Tropical North Queensland Drought Hub\, with AgValuate — a practical tool to help you assess whether new technologies stack up in your operation\nPartnering with your banker – presented by Rabobank\, why including your bank manager as part of your business team can strengthen your decision-making\, and how a clear\, well-considered approach to investment builds confidence on both side\n\nWe’ll also unpack the key factors growers typically consider before investing\, before hearing briefly from suppliers – Aglantis and EAS who will showcase their automated irrigation systems in the field. \n  \nFollowing the workshop\, we’ll head out to two local sites to see automated pump systems in operation\, ask questions\, and hear directly from the suppliers and growers involved. \n  \nLunch provided.
URL:https://greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au/event/zeroin-irrigation/
LOCATION:Western Suburbs Leagues Club\, Branscombe Road\, Walkerston\, Queensland\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Digital
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au/wp-content/uploads/ZeroIN-Irrigation-Humanitix-banner-FINAL260407.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260514T110000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260514T114500
DTSTAMP:20260430T012746Z
CREATED:20260430T005002Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260430T012746Z
UID:11430-1778756400-1778759100@greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au
SUMMARY:Big Careers\, Brighter Futures Forum
DESCRIPTION:Discover Your Future in the Greater Whitsunday Region\n\nReady to turn your degree into something real?\nGet ahead of the curve and discover where your skills can actually take you in the Greater Whitsunday region.\nIndustries here are growing fast—and they’re not just looking for experience; they’re looking for you. Whether you’re studying tech\, passionate about sustainability\, or interested in making a difference in health and community\, there are real opportunities waiting. \nThis webinar connects you with young professionals working across fast-growing industries including Technology & Innovation\, Environment & Sustainability\, and Health & Community: \n\nHear how they figured out their career path (even if they weren’t sure at first)\nLearn what they wish they knew when they were in your position\nGet practical tips on standing out and building a future-focused career\n\nNot sure where you fit yet? That’s exactly why you should come. \nWhether you’re in your first year of study or about to graduate\, this is your chance to get inspired\, ask questions\, and see what’s possible beyond your study framework. \nBig opportunities. Real impact. A lifestyle to match.\nThe Greater Whitsundays isn’t just a place to work – it’s a place to build a career and a life. \nSPEAKERS \n\nGeorgia Lavers: Project Coordinator\, Decarbonisation & Biomanufacturing – GW3\nHarry Parker: Robotics Programmer & Draftsperson\, Forge Engineering\nTayah McKinnon: Physiotherapist\, Mackay Base Hospital\nDylann\, Psychology Student\n\n  \nThis is an online event is held using Microsoft Teams meeting and the link is in the notes section of the Order Confirmation and Emails sent to registered participants.
URL:https://greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au/event/big-careers-brighter-futures-forum/
LOCATION:Online
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260609T173000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260609T193000
DTSTAMP:20260720T035105Z
CREATED:20260510T231655Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260720T035105Z
UID:11436-1781026200-1781033400@greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au
SUMMARY:Inside the Engine Room: Improving Business Performance one Cog at a Time
DESCRIPTION:Greater Businesses Event – Keynote Speaker and Networking Event \nStep inside the engine room of business performance.\nJoin us for a Greater Businesses Isaac networking evening featuring keynote speaker Keenan Jansen\, a highly experienced operations leader with nearly 30 years working across heavy industry\, manufacturing\, commercial services and agriculture. \n \nKeynote speaker Keenan Jansen brings a practical\, no-nonsense approach to improving how businesses actually operate. He works closely with owners and leaders to identify what’s not working\, tackle challenges head-on\, and implement simple\, effective solutions that drive real results. \nWith deep expertise across people\, equipment and processes\, Keenan focuses on strengthening leadership capability\, improving operational systems\, and building disciplined\, high-performing workplace cultures. \nThis event is open to all businesses across the region seeking practical strategies—not theory—to improve decision-making\, strengthen teams\, and drive consistent business performance. \nDelivered by the Greater Businesses program through the Greater Whitsunday RJC\, in partnership with the Isaac Business Chamber.
URL:https://greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au/event/inside-the-engine-room-improving-business-performance-one-cog-at-a-time/
LOCATION:Isaac Event Centre\, 89 Mills Avenue\, Moranbah\, QLD\, 4744\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee,gw3rjc,Workforce
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260701T113000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260701T143000
DTSTAMP:20260602T010022Z
CREATED:20260602T003509Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260602T010022Z
UID:11537-1782905400-1782916200@greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au
SUMMARY:Priorities and Pipeline
DESCRIPTION:Priorities & Pipeline\, a luncheon with the Deputy Premier\, brought to the region by the Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3)\,\nin partnership with our local Members of Parliament The Honourable Amanda Camm MP\, Minister for Families\, Seniors and Disability Services\, and Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence\, Glen Kelly MP\, Member for Mirani\, and Nigel Dalton MP\, Member for Mackay. \nThe event will feature a keynote address from the Deputy Premier of Queensland\, Honourable Jarrod Bleijie MP\, Deputy Premier\, Minister for State Development\, Infrastructure and Planning and Minister for Industrial Relations\, who will share insights into the Queensland Budget\, including the Government’s priorities\, economic direction and what’s ahead for the region. \nThis delivery update is a great opportunity to hear directly from Government about Queensland Budget outcomes and what they mean for our regional and to connect with others from across business\, industry and the community. \nYour presence will help ensure our region’s voice is heard where it matters most.\nTwo course lunch included\, doors open at 11.30am. \nDress code: Business attire. \nTickets are available now. \n  \nHOSTED BY: \nThe Honourable Amanda Camm MP\, Minister for Families\, Seniors and Disability Services\, and Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence \nGlen Kelly MP\, Member for Mirani \nNigel Dalton MP\, Member for Mackay.
URL:https://greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au/event/priorities-and-pipeline/
LOCATION:Mackay Turf Club\, 9 Peak Downs Highway\, Ooralea\, Queensland\, 4740\, Australia
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260714T090000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260714T120000
DTSTAMP:20260617T044405Z
CREATED:20260617T043703Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260617T044405Z
UID:11551-1784019600-1784030400@greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au
SUMMARY:ZeroIn: AI for Farm Business
DESCRIPTION:ZeroIn: AI for Farm Business is a FREE three-hour practical workshop designed to support those managing the administrative and operational side of farm businesses to confidently use AI within their own operations.\nAI is rapidly changing the way businesses operate — but for many farm businesses\, the biggest opportunity isn’t in robotics or automation. It’s in the day-to-day administrative and operational tasks that quietly consume hours every week. \nZeroIn: AI for Farm Business is a practical workshop designed specifically for the people managing the business side of farming.\nCatering provided | Resources Centre of Excellence & Online (Hybrid) | Tuesday 14 July 2026 \nThis workshop will be delivered in a hybrid format. Participants can attend in person in Mackay or join online from across the Isaac and Whitsunday communities.\nWhether it’s compliance paperwork\, emails\, reporting\, customer communications\, organising information or improving workflow efficiency\, this session will help participants understand where AI can provide genuine support within real farm business operations. \nDelivered by one of Australia’s leading voices on practical AI adoption\, Tracy Sheen\, this workshop is intentionally grounded\, practical and jargon-free. No coding. No tech background required. Whether you’re completely new to AI or already experimenting with tools like ChatGPT and want to better understand how to maximise their value within your business\, this session is designed to meet participants where they’re at. \nParticipants will walk away:\n• Confident to begin using AI practically within their business\n• Understanding where AI can save time and reduce admin burden\n• Knowing the difference between free and paid AI tools\n• Understanding important guardrails around privacy and appropriate use\n• With a practical 30-day action plan tailored to their own business workflows \nImportantly\, this workshop is not about replacing people with technology. It’s about helping farm businesses work smarter\, reduce pressure and build confidence around tools that are already rapidly becoming part of everyday business operations. \nThe session will conclude with a networking lunch and opportunity for further discussion with peers and the facilitator. \nThis is a FREE event. Registration open NOW.
URL:https://greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au/event/zeroin-ai-for-farm-business/
LOCATION:Resources Centre of Excellence\, 65 Crichtons Road\, Paget\, QLD\, 4740\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Decarbonisation,Digital,Workforce
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au/wp-content/uploads/ZeroIn-AI-GW3-Event-pg-Banner-FINAL260527.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260722T123500
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260722T140000
DTSTAMP:20260622T004623Z
CREATED:20260622T002256Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260622T004623Z
UID:11628-1784723700-1784728800@greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au
SUMMARY:QME and GW3 Conference Sessions: Building the Workforce for a changing industry
DESCRIPTION:QME & GW3 Conference Sessions\nOUR NEXT CHAPTER: Workforce at the centre of regional transformation\nGreater Whitsunday has long been defined by mining excellence. For decades\, mining has shaped our communities\, trained our workforce\, built our engineering and METS ecosystem\, and positioned this region as a global leader in operational capability. \nBut the next chapter is not just about what we mine — it’s about who we grow and what our businesses can deliver. The region’s future competitiveness depends on our ability to develop the workforce and the METS capability that will power emerging industries and new supply chain opportunities. \nWhen we partner with QME this year to deliver two sessions in the conference program\, Greater Whitsunday Alliance will explore one central idea: \nMining built the workforce and the businesses that built this region — now that combined capability is the platform for our future economy. \n \nImportantly\, we are shifting the narrative. \nWe are driving the conversation from “diversifying the economy” to “building the workforce and business capability that makes diversification possible” — with a strong emphasis on engaging the next generation and strengthening the ecosystem that supports them. \nAcross two sessions\, we’ll unpack how regional talent\, technology adoption\, commercial readiness and supply chain depth can position Greater Whitsunday to compete\, grow and lead in the opportunities emerging across resources\, advanced industry and future‑facing supply chains. \n  \nSESSION ONE – REGIONAL FUTURES (12:35pm – 1:15pm)\nRegional Futures: Building the Workforce for a Diverse and Connected Economy \nMining has provided Greater Whitsunday a highly skilled technical workforce — one of the region’s biggest competitive advantages. But the next decade demands a workforce that is more digitally capable\, more adaptable\, and more connected across sectors. This session focuses on what this shift means for businesses on the ground — how they attract\, retain and upskill the workforce needed to stay competitive\, win work\, and expand into emerging sectors. \n  \nSESSION TWO – FUTURE TECH (1:15pm – 2:00pm)\nFuture Tech: What You Need to Stay Competitive in a Digital Mining Industry \nThe technology curve in mining and METS is steepening fast. Automation\, AI\, autonomy\, electrification and quantum enabled optimisation are no longer future concepts — they are current operating realities. This session focuses on what technology adoption means for cost\, capability\, competitiveness and decarbonisation — and how businesses can prioritise and practically respond. \n  \nTHESE SESSIONS ARE FREE TO ATTEND – however you MUST register to attend QME separately.\nGo to: Home – Queensland Mining & Engineering Expo \nThose who also register for GW3’s two conference sessions via this platform will go into the draw to win a GW3/Decarbonisation Accelerated Tech Pack.
URL:https://greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au/event/qme-and-gw3-conference-sessions-building-the-workforce-for-a-changing-industry/
LOCATION:Mackay Showgrounds\, 24 Milton Street\, Mackay\, Queensland\, 4740\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Diversification
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260826T173000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260826T193000
DTSTAMP:20260901T033650Z
CREATED:20260715T014037Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260901T033650Z
UID:11735-1787765400-1787772600@greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au
SUMMARY:Future Finder Live
DESCRIPTION:Future Finder Live: Navigate Tomorrow\, Explore Today.\n  \nThe careers conversation has changed. \nToday’s young people are entering a world of work that is evolving rapidly. Artificial intelligence\, technological change and new opportunities are reshaping how we think about careers\, skills and success. \n  \nJoin us for Future Finder Live: Navigate Tomorrow\, Explore Today\, a regionally focused\, family-centred event bringing students and their parents and carers together to explore career opportunities\, understand the future of work\, and make informed decisions about what’s next. \nPresented in partnership with Mackay Regional Council\, this engaging evening will explore the trends shaping the future of work\, regional workforce opportunities and the capabilities young people need to thrive in a changing world. \nThe evening will include a regional industry workforce panel\, bringing together leaders representing Technology & Innovation\, Environment & Sustainability\, Health & Community\, and Trades & Services. Panel members will share insights into the major projects\, skills and career opportunities shaping the future workforce of the Greater Whitsunday region. \nFeaturing keynote speaker Jan Owen AM\, one of Australia’s leading futurists\, social entrepreneurs and advocates for young people\, attendees will gain valuable insights into the impact of AI\, changing career pathways and how families can confidently navigate the future. Drawing on decades of experience in education\, workforce development and social innovation\, Jan will challenge traditional thinking about careers and inspire attendees to embrace the opportunities emerging in a rapidly changing world. \nThis is not a traditional careers event focused solely on jobs and qualifications. Future Finder Live takes a broader view of careers and pathways\, helping families better understand the opportunities available and how to prepare for a rapidly changing future. \nBy attending Future Finder Live\, you will: \n\nHear insights from leading futurist and youth advocate Jan Owen AM Hon DLitt.\nDiscover how AI and technology are changing the world of work.\nExplore the skills young people need for future careers.\nLearn about career opportunities and workforce trends in our region.\nGain practical tips to support career conversations at home.\n\nDate: Wednesday 26 August 2026 \nTime: 5:30pm – 7:30pm \nLocation: CQUniversity Ooralea Campus\, Building 1 \n151–171 Boundary Road\, Ooralea QLD 4740 \n\n🎟️ Free event – registration required \nYour ticket includes: \n\nKeynote presentation by Jan Owen AM Hon DLitt\nRegional industry workforce panel discussion\nNetworking with young people pursuing diverse career pathways in our region\nLight refreshments\n\nFuture Finder Live is proudly delivered by Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) through the Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee\, proudly funded by the Queensland Government\, in partnership with Mackay Regional Council and BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA).
URL:https://greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au/event/future-finder-live/
LOCATION:CQUniversity Ooralea Campus\, 151–171 Boundary Road\, Ooralea\, QLD\, 4740\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee,Workforce
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260903T110000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260903T114500
DTSTAMP:20260812T005750Z
CREATED:20260812T000944Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260812T005750Z
UID:11829-1788433200-1788435900@greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au
SUMMARY:Industry Connections Mixer
DESCRIPTION:Explore Possibilities. Expand Connections. Shape Your Future.\nMore than a panel discussion. Hear real career stories\, ask questions and connect with professionals from a range of industries from across the Greater Whitsunday region. \nCome curious. Leave with possibilities.\nIn just 45 minutes you’ll:\n✅ Meet people building careers across the Greater Whitsunday region\n✅ Hear the stories\, setbacks and lessons that shaped their journey\n✅ Discover opportunities and pathways you may not have considered\n✅ Find out what employers really value in emerging talent\n✅ Ask the questions you don’t usually get the chance to ask\n✅ Leave with fresh ideas\, meaningful connections and greater confidence about what’s next \nWhether you’re exploring your options\, considering your next step or simply curious about what’s possible\, this session will help you gain fresh perspectives\, build meaningful connections and discover new opportunities. \nThe future of Greater Whitsunday will be shaped by people like you. \nJoin the conversation and discover what’s possible. \nIndustry Connections Mixer\nGreater Careers Connect Online event\n📅 3 September 2026 | 11:00 am\n💻 Online Event\n📲 Secure your place and join the conversation.
URL:https://greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au/event/industry-connections-mixer/
LOCATION:Online
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260917T080000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20260917T130000
DTSTAMP:20260907T015857Z
CREATED:20260831T235230Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260907T015857Z
UID:11927-1789632000-1789650000@greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au
SUMMARY:Continuing the Conversation 2026
DESCRIPTION:THE CONVERSATION CONTINUES: YOU SPOKE. WE’VE LISTENED. \nJOIN US FOR VALUABLE INSIGHTS AND SITES TOURS! \nDecarbonisation Accelerated: Continuing the Conversation\nFollowing 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.\nThis 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? \nAcross 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. \nFeatured 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. \nOne of the strongest messages from last year’s attendee feedback was clear: people wanted to see more real-world examples in action. \nWe listened.\nFor 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. \nThe event will also explore key themes including: \n\nDecarbonisation and ESG\nDiversification into emerging industries\nTechnology and innovation\n\n \nPresented 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. \nPlaces are strictly limited due to the inclusion of site tours and venue capacity. \nSITE TOUR HOSTS\nCSE Linked\nCSE 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. \nCSE 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. \nAttendees 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. \nFMS Group\nFMS 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. \nWith 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. \nFMS 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. \nAttendees 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. \nIf 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. \nRegister now and be part of the conversation. 
URL:https://greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au/event/continuing-the-conversation-2026/
LOCATION:Resources Centre of Excellence\, 65 Crichtons Road\, Paget\, QLD\, 4740\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Decarbonisation,Decarbonisation Accelerated
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DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261020T110000
DTEND;TZID=Australia/Melbourne:20261020T150000
DTSTAMP:20260920T232541Z
CREATED:20260920T232541Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260920T232541Z
UID:11982-1792494000-1792508400@greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au
SUMMARY:Workforce Development Mastermind
DESCRIPTION:Unlocking Greater Whitsunday’s Workforce Potential\nThe Greater Whitsunday region has made significant progress in workforce development over the past five years\, creating a strong foundation for future growth. As workforce challenges and opportunities continue to evolve\, there is an opportunity to strengthen collaboration\, align priorities and maximise collective impact. \nThe Workforce Development Mastermind is a selected gathering of regional leaders and key stakeholders committed to shaping the future workforce of Greater Whitsunday. \nFacilitated by Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) through the Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee (RJC)\, this strategic workshop will bring together leaders from industry\, education\, government and workforce development to explore emerging trends\, share insights and help inform future workforce priorities for the region. \nThe Mastermind is an opportunity to leverage the collective expertise of regional leaders\, strengthen alignment across workforce development efforts and identify practical actions that support future workforce growth and regional prosperity. \nBy participating\, you will: \n\nContribute to shaping future workforce development priorities for the Greater Whitsunday region.\nShare insights on emerging workforce challenges and opportunities.\nExplore opportunities for greater collaboration\, coordination and collective impact.\nLearn about workforce initiatives underway across Greater Whitsunday.\nHelp identify practical actions to support workforce attraction\, retention and capability development.\nConnect with leaders and stakeholders committed to strengthening regional workforce outcomes.\n\nThe Mastermind Includes: \n\nA regional workforce development overview.\nEmerging workforce trends and future opportunities.\nFacilitated mastermind discussions and collaborative problem solving.\nPriority setting and action planning.\nNetworking and knowledge sharing opportunities.\n\nEvent Details\nDate: Tuesday 20 October 2026\nTime:11.00am to 3:00pm \nLocation: CQUniversity Mackay Ooralea Campus – Mackay Electric Vehicle and Energy Training Centre. 151/171 Boundary Rd\, Ooralea QLD 4740\, Australia \n(Optional) Electric Vehicle and Energy Training Centre Tour: 3.00pm – 3.30pm \nPLEASE REGISTER BY 15th October\, 2026. \nThis is a FREE\, invite-only event\n  \nProudly delivered by Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) through the Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee (RJC) and supported through the GW3 and BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) Transformation Region Partnership.
URL:https://greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au/event/workforce-development-mastermind/
LOCATION:CQUniversity Ooralea Campus\, 151–171 Boundary Road\, Ooralea\, QLD\, 4740\, Australia
CATEGORIES:Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee,gw3rjc,Workforce
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