Powerlink was proud to be a sponsor and exhibitor at the annual Gladstone Engineering Alliance (GEA) Supply Chain Expo, held in early May. The expo attracted a strong turnout, with a diverse mix of exhibitors and several hundred visitors through the doors, providing a valuable opportunity to connect face‑to‑face with suppliers across Central Queensland.

Exhibiting with our Major Projects contractors

Powerlink is delivering a coordinated portfolio of major transmission projects across Central Queensland. While Powerlink will procure some specialist goods and services, most procurement during the construction phase occurs through our principal contractors.

Therefore, we were pleased to exhibit alongside four members of our Major Projects sub‑panel under the Infrastructure Development Panel (IDP): Consolidated Power Projects (CPP), Downer, UGL and Zinfra.

The IDP is Powerlink’s panel of pre-qualified construction contractors. It is how we pre‑qualify, select and work with our principal contractors to deliver transmission lines, substations and other major projects across Queensland.

Exhibiting together helped connect local and Indigenous suppliers directly with those contractors, clarify where opportunities sit within the supply chain, and support early relationship‑building ahead of construction.

What we heard on the day

Powerlink and contractor team members were available throughout the day to speak with suppliers, answer questions, and discuss how businesses can position themselves to be involved as projects progress.

We spoke with a wide range of businesses, large and small, providing goods and services across the supply chain. These included accommodation providers, manufacturing and fabrication, safety solutions, training, equipment and machinery hire, and engineering and environmental services.

The team was kept busy right through to closing time, with discussions flowing and new connections formed throughout the day. By the end of the expo, the team was energised by the quality of engagement and the capability on display across the region.

Supporting local and Indigenous participation

We are focused on creating genuine and practical opportunities for local and Indigenous businesses across our Central Queensland major transmission projects.

Local businesses interested in working on these projects are encouraged to register through our Gateway by ICN page. Once registered, keeping your profile up-to-date helps ensure your business is visible to Powerlink’s principal contractors as opportunities arise.