Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/131994
miningspecial aimex at the fore Asia-Pacific's international mining exhbition, aimex, is returning to sydney in late august, showcasing the latest mining equipment, products and services. To be held at the Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, from August 20–23, AIMEX 2013 will have more than 600 exhibitors covering an area of more than 45,000 square-metres. AIMEX is recognised as the preeminent mining exhibition in Australia and the Asia-Pacific region, with the last edition in 2011 attracting more than 17,300 visits – an increase of 40 per cent on the previous exhibition. Reflecting the changing face of mining suppliers, there will be a host of new names among this year's line up of exhibitors, with 90 new additions showcasing products and services previously never seen at AIMEX. Among those new to the show in 2013 will be GE Mining, Belaz from Belarus and the world's second-largest manufacturer of mining trucks, underground coal mining specialist CME, and XEMC. 66 According to Paul Baker, exhibition director with event organiser Reed Mining Events, "the Australian mining industry will be exposed to a broader line-up of suppliers, offering a wider choice of equipment and brands." "The mining industry is going through a very rapid rate of change and innovation, with a correspondingly fast pace of product development," says Baker. Speaking on the industry shift in focus to productivity and efficiency, and the concern about costs, Baker says AIMEX 2013 will be all about innovation: "How the very latest processes, systems, services and products can really meet miners' demands for productivity and efficiency gains." With exhibitors and visitors wanting more, the event – which was established in the 1970s – has recently changed from a four-year to a two-year cycle. AIMEX's stellar reputation for quality, history, networking opportunities and consistent display of mining innovations and technology ensure it's held in high regard and remains as an event not to be missed for all in the industry. Add-on events such as Women in Mining and the Mining Safety Day only increase the exhibition's relevance and appeal. "It's the longest running, most successful and highly regarded mining exhibiton," says Baker. For those that are new to the mining community, AIMEX gives people the opportunity to learn a lot, in a short timeframe. "There are numerous networking opportunities and the chance to make new contacts as well as talk to people who are keen to impart their industry knowledge and experience." To pre-register for the event online, visit www.aimex.com.au. Above: Busy AIMEX has plenty of exhibits, events and networking opportunities for all in the mining industry.