Exco took out Queensland Explorer of the Year, while MMG Century picked up Miner of the Year at a packed function overlooking the Brisbane River.

Perth-based Exco beat out fellow nominees Ivanhoe Australia, Metallica Minerals and Krucible Metals.

The company was recognised for its exploration around Cloncurry.

Exco managing director Michael Anderson thanked Ivanhoe in particular, its major shareholder.

"It kinda feels like a long service award," he told the crowd.

He said the company's chief geologist has been with the company since its listing in 1998.

Meanwhile, MMG was up against Rio Tinto Coal for its new Clermont mine and Newcrest Mining, which was recognised as a "quiet achiever" at its Cracow gold mine.

Century environmental manager John Dawson was on hand to accept MMG's award.

The Century zinc mine is Australia's largest open pit zinc mine and changed ownership last year from OZ Minerals to current operator, Chinese-owned MMG.

"2009 in particular was a tough year for Century," Dawson said.

He described MMG as a new and exciting organisation.

Mining 2010 runs in Brisbane until tomorrow.