The Central Coast’s standing as one of Australia’s first certified ECO Destinations extends far beyond its beaches and bushland. A new wave of sustainable innovation is emerging from the region’s manufacturing sector, highlighted by local businesses redefining what it means to operate responsibly, with global impact.

At the forefront is Signarama Tuggerah, winner of the 2024 Hunter Manufacturing Award for Excellence in Sustainable Operations. Their cutting-edge signage solutions, developed in collaboration with Spandex, HP, and Avery Dennison, debuted on the world stage at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The result? Recyclable, reusable signage that cut carbon emissions by 22% and met global performance standards. Powered by solar energy, using PVC-free materials and water-based inks, Signarama reduced energy use by 34% and landfill waste by 15% in just 12 months.

Hunter Manufacturing Awards Chair Jacqui Daley says their pioneering work in sustainable signage was showcased on the world stage for the Australian Olympic Committee at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

“This wasn’t just signage – it was a statement. They designed, developed and delivered world first recyclable and reusable signage solutions. The project reduced carbon emissions by 22% and proved sustainable signage can meet global performance standards.”

Hunter Manufacturing Awards Board Member and Executive Director of Central Coast Industry Connect Frank Sammut believes the region is at the forefront of an industrial transformation.

“The Central Coast is proving that manufacturing and sustainability are not mutually exclusive. Businesses are creating smarter, greener, globally competitive models, right here in our backyard.”

Central Coast manufacturing highlights

AGRANA Fruit – Central Mangrove Runs on 100% renewable electricity from wind and solar. On track to achieve zero landfill waste this year, circular packaging by 2030, and carbon neutrality by 2040.

4 Seasons Insulation – West Gosford Reduces household energy consumption through smart insulation solutions. Offers sustainable materials that cut reliance on non-renewables and reduce the carbon footprint of production.

4id Solutions – Wyong Designs smart RFID products using compostable, biodegradable, and FSC-certified materials. Their manufacturing prioritises waste reduction and environmental responsibility.

Janus Electric – Berkeley Vale – Leads the zero-carbon freight movement by converting existing diesel-powered heavy trucks into electric vehicles. This approach reduces greenhouse gas emissions, extends the operational life of current vehicles, minimising waste and the need for new manufacturing.

These innovations align with the Central Coast Pledge, encouraging locals and visitors to tread lightly, ditch single-use plastics, and support businesses committed to environmental stewardship. As Australia moves toward a net-zero future, Central Coast manufacturers are proving that industrial innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand, right here, in our own backyard.

These achievements highlight how regional manufacturers are leading the way in sustainable innovation. The Hunter Manufacturing Awards are proud to spotlight businesses like these that are shaping a cleaner, smarter future.

As we count down to the 2025 Awards, these stories are a powerful reminder of why local manufacturing matters, locally and globally.

About the Hunter Manufacturing Awards

The Hunter Manufacturing Awards (HMA) aim to inspire and encourage vibrant and enduring manufacturing in our region.

Like the sector they represent, the HMAs are transforming. They are recognising and promoting excellence through streamlined awards, which are contemporary and future focused.

Engaging with the sector and working closely with their valued partners, they are offering greater opportunities for education, connection and collaboration.

Full entry details, category descriptions, key dates, and eligibility criteria are available from visit www.hma.org.au with applications open until Wednesday 20 August 2025.