VR resources training lab unveiled in Mackay

• A new virtual reality training lab for the resources industry was unveiled at the Resources Centre of Excellence in Mackay today.
• The Palaszczuk Government has committed an extra $5.7 million in funding to expand the Centre to support emerging industry needs.
• The launch was held ahead of a Resources Ministerial Advisory Group meeting, bringing together government, industry and peak bodies.

The future of Queensland’s resources industry was on display today at the unveiling of a new virtual reality training lab in Mackay.

Speaking at the Resources Centre of Excellence, Resources Minister Scott Stewart said the new virtual reality training lab would provide faster and more diverse training options for workers.

Developed by Next World Enterprises, the virtual reality training software provides immersive scenarios to help students understand the high-risk environment and potential hazards, without compromising their safety.

The Palaszczuk Government has committed an additional $5.7 million to expand the Centre, ensuring that it stays ahead of emerging industry needs.

The launch coincided with the second Resources Ministerial Advisory Group meeting, bringing together government and resource industry leaders to drive Queensland's 30-year-plan for the resources sector.

Quotes attributable to member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert:

“We're proud to support the Resources Centre of Excellence in Mackay and the role it plays in training the next generation of workers in Queensland's resources sector,” Ms Gilbert said.

“This new VR lab will help equip our resources workers with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed well into the future – and most importantly keep them safe.

Quotes attributable to  Minister for Resources Scott Stewart: 

"Developing a highly skilled and adaptable workforce is a key component of our 30-year plan for the resources sector, which will enable us to drive innovation and growth for decades to come.

“This week we announced $963,000 in funding for the Queensland Resources Council to establish a digital hub that will assist the industry in attracting and retaining a more diversified and inclusive workforce.

“By working in partnership with industry leaders and peak bodies through our Ministerial Advisory Group, we are building a strong foundation to future-proof Queensland's resources industry.

“We’re proud of the resources industry which supports about 75,000 good jobs and contributed more than $74 billion to Queensland’s economy last financial year.”

Quotes attributable to Stephen Boxall, CEO of the Resources Centre of Excellence:

“The Resources Centre of Excellence is proud of the strategic role we play bringing together government, industry, education and research to foster innovation for the resources industry as a whole.

“The virtual reality training lab has been an 18-month collaboration with Next World Enterprises and it’s fantastic to see it come to fruition.

“It showcases the incredible depth of talent we have in Queensland to produce this cutting-edge technology.”

Quotes attributable to Michael O’Reilly, CEO and Founder, Next World Enterprises

 “Our training accelerates the learning curve for users so business can up-skill workers faster for the needs of future industry. 

“We’ve designed our cutting-edge virtual reality software to enhance the learner’s engagement and foster a deep comprehension of the training topic.

“It is also a win for business, as it increases productivity and minimises downtime due to injury from ineffective training. 

“Next World is a major Queensland technology success story—starting in 2018, we are now in the top-three globally in its field.

“Our training software is now used in 16 countries and by the largest companies in the world.”

More information:

The Resources Centre of Excellence opened in mid-2020 and provides training options for students and apprentices as well as supporting companies to develop new products and research.

The Palaszczuk Government provided half of the original $7 million funding to build the Centre in partnership with Mackay Regional Council.

In addition to the virtual reality training lab, the centre boasts a 6800 square metre Underground Simulator Mining Facility that replicates the physical conditions of working underground.

Media note: Media gallery to support this release available here.

ENDS