More than 250 energy stakeholders gathered in Dalby this week for the 2026 Surat Basin Energy Summit, reinforcing the Western Downs region as Queensland’s Energy Capital.

Hosted by Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE), the summit brought together leaders from across the coal, gas, renewable energy, infrastructure and local government sectors to examine how regional Queensland can continue delivering reliable, affordable and secure energy while supporting economic growth and community prosperity.

TSBE Chief Executive Officer Jo Sheppard said the summit highlighted the importance of practical, balanced conversations about Australia's energy future, with the Summit’s focus around ‘Striking the Balance’.

"One of the strongest messages to emerge from this year's summit was that the Surat Basin region is not choosing between energy technologies, it is delivering them all," Ms Sheppard said.

"Our region continues to demonstrate that coal, gas, renewables and emerging technologies can work together to support energy security, economic growth and emissions reduction while creating opportunities for regional communities."

Discussions throughout the day focused on the role of the Toowoomba, Western Downs and Maranoa regions in supporting Australia's energy transition, with panellists highlighting the importance of maintaining investment confidence, developing infrastructure and ensuring communities continue to benefit from major energy projects.

Ms Sheppard said the calibre of speakers and attendees demonstrated the growing national significance of the region.

"The Surat Basin has become one of Australia's most important energy regions and the conversations held at this summit underscore why decision-makers continue to look to regional Queensland for solutions.

"We heard from leaders across the full energy spectrum who share a commitment to reliability, affordability and long-term regional prosperity. That willingness to collaborate is one of our region's greatest strengths.

"The energy conversation is increasingly being shaped in regional Australia because that's where projects are being built, jobs are being created and innovation is occurring.

"TSBE is proud to bring together leaders from across industry, government and the community to ensure our region remains at the forefront of Australia's energy future."

The summit also marked the launch of the latest Western Downs Development Status Report, providing stakeholders with insights into investment activity and development across the region. View the report on TSBE’s website.