From the first welcome to the final farewell, GRX26 is designed to create the moments where conversations begin, partnerships form and momentum is built. These three signature networking experiences anchor the GRX26 journey — opening the event with energy, connecting delegates through shared celebration, and closing with purpose and intent.

Global Resources Innovation Expo

The Spark — Opening Night

Tuesday 5 May | 5:00pm – 7:00pm | Exhibition Floor

Where GRX26 begins.

The Spark transforms the exhibition floor into an electrifying opening night experience where the energy of innovation comes alive. As the sun sets over Perth, the lights rise, performers move through the crowd and exhibitor activations draw delegates into the heart of GRX26.

At 6:00pm, the Ignition Moment brings the entire community together for the official launch of GRX26 — a shared experience that sets the tone for the days ahead.

This is where first connections are made, conversations begin and the GRX26 journey truly starts.

Global Resources Innovation Expo

Women in STEM Breakfast

Wednesday 6 May | 7:30am – 8:45am

An inspiring start to GRX26

The Women in STEM Breakfast brings together students, emerging professionals and senior leaders who are shaping the future of the resources sector through technology, innovation and leadership.

This high-impact morning experience connects the next generation with those who are already leading change — creating space for conversation, learning and meaningful connection before the conference program begins.


 

Global Resources Innovation Expo

Tech & Tonic — Cocktail Reception

Wednesday 6 May | 5:00pm – 7:00pm | Exhibition Floor

Where connection meets celebration.

Tech & Tonic transforms the exhibition floor into a sophisticated networking lounge at the close of Day One. With ambient lighting, curated seating, live music and a signature cocktail menu featuring WA craft spirits, this experience shifts the energy from conference mode to connection mode.

Tech & Tonic also hosts Innovation on the Rocks inside the GRX Theatre — bringing live startup pitching and industry engagement into the heart of the evening.

This is where informal conversations turn into serious opportunity.

Global Resources Innovation Expo

GRX Industry Awards

Wednesday 6 May | 7:00pm – Late 

The Industry's Night to Celebrate Excellence

One thousand people. Six awards. One unforgettable night. This is the industry's premier celebration recognising the individuals and organisations leading the way in mining innovation.

The room buzzes with the energy of an industry that knows its importance to Australia's future. Champions are celebrated. Partnerships are cemented over dinner. Everyone who matters is in this room. You should be too.


 

Global Resources Innovation Expo

Spark Forward — Closing Drinks

Thursday 7 May | 4:00pm – 5:00pm

The final gathering — and the beginning of what comes next.

Spark Forward brings the GRX26 community together one last time to reflect, reconnect and commit to action. Delegates consolidate the relationships formed across three days, confirm follow-ups and set the next steps for collaboration.

Timed to support Eastern States departures, Spark Forward ensures the final hour of GRX26 is spent turning intention into implementation.

You arrived with a spark. You leave with momentum.

Why These Experiences Matter

Together, these three experiences are designed to:

  • Create natural, high-value networking environments
  • Foster informal but commercially meaningful conversations
  • Strengthen relationships beyond the conference program
  • Support collaboration across the full mining and METS ecosystem
  • Embed the GRX26 theme of activation and implementation

These are not add-ons. They are core to how GRX works.

 

Inclusions

Access to The Spark, Tech & Tonic and Spark Forward is included with:

  • Full Conference Delegate registrations
  • Group registrations

Connect where the industry connects.

Experience the moments where GRX26 relationships begin, deepen and carry forward.