Winners to fast-track into new national awards program as entries open across the
Hunter, Central Coast and Mid-North Coast

The 2025 Hunter Manufacturing Awards (HMA) have officially launched, unveiling a revitalised program designed to spotlight innovation, inclusion, and global competitiveness in one of regional Australia’s most vital industries.

Now in its 21st year, HMA continues to celebrate the outstanding achievements of manufacturers across the Hunter, Central Coast, New England and Mid-North Coast regions.

But this year comes with a powerful new incentive: a first-of-its-kind partnership with Industry Update’s Australian Manufacturing Awards will see 2024 HMA winners automatically fast tracked as national finalists in the debut of the prestigious new national program.

“We’re proud to be raising the profile of regional manufacturers on a national stage,” said HMA Chair Jacqui Daley. “This partnership is a game-changer, it’s about putting the Hunter on the map as a manufacturing powerhouse and giving our winners the recognition they deserve across the country.”

In the picture: Some HMA board members.

Two new award categories have been launched in response to industry priorities:
• Digital Transformation Award – recognising outstanding use of digital technologies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and drive innovation in manufacturing operations.
• Diversity in Manufacturing Award – celebrating businesses and individuals that are fostering inclusive, accessible, and equitable workplaces across the manufacturing sector.

“We’re recognising the real forces shaping the future of manufacturing; digital innovation, diverse talent, sustainable operations, and global thinking,” said Ms Daley. “The 2025 awards are about more than trophies, they’re about celebrating the people and ideas that will lead our
industries forward.”

In the picture: Peter McKinnon, Omnia.

The 2025 awards also feature a streamlined entry process following feedback from manufacturers, making it easier for businesses of all sizes to apply. HMA has also introduced new technology to simplify the submission experience, ensuring more manufacturers can share
their stories of impact and innovation.

The 2025 program was officially launched on 7 May at a special event hosted by Omnia and co hosted by Apollo Engineering, two standout winners from last year’s program.

Ben Bronkhorst, Business Development Manager at Apollo Engineering, says their success has come from deliberately challenging national trends.

“We’ve actively bucked the downturn in manufacturing by diversifying into competitive contract manufacturing,” said Mr Bronkhorst. “Investments in technologies like advanced fibre lasers with sheet automation began as internal improvements for our parts washers but evolved into a platform for the growth of our contract manufacturing service offering. At the same time, we’ve developed innovations like the Biofeed food waste processor, putting Apollo at the forefront of practical sustainability.

”Liam Manning, Chief Commercial Officer for SAPHI, the 2024 HMA Innovation Award winner agrees saying there is strong demand for AI-driven solutions in manufacturing, particularly in workplace safety and operational efficiency.

“As the industry faces increasing pressures, businesses are investing in technologies like ours
to do more for less.”

HMA 2024 Winners Included:
● Manufacturer of the Year (≥50 Employees): Apollo Engineering
● Manufacturer of the Year (<50 Employees): Omnia Wheel
● Excellence in Product Design: SafeGauge
● Collaboration Partnership: The Melt, Allegro Energy & Muswellbrook Shire Council
● Outstanding Start-Up: Allegro Energy
● Building Workforce Capability: Morgan Engineering
● Export & Global Supply Chains: Whiteley
● Innovation: SAPHI
● Sustainable Operations: Signarama Tuggerah
● Marketing Excellence: Out Of The Square Media & Guts Creative
● Rising Star: Jamie Woods, TW Woods
● Apprentice of the Year: Christie Hayward, Westrac
● Manufacturing Leader: Peter McKinnon, Omnia
● Hall of Fame: Joss De Iuliis

The Hall of Fame also returns in 2025, with business and community nominations open once again for individuals or companies who have made a long-term contribution to the region’s manufacturing sector.

In the picture: Jochan Werner, Operations and Engineering Manager, Omnia.

The 2025 awards will culminate in a gala event on Thursday 30 October 2025, bringing together industry leaders and innovators to celebrate the strength and future of regional manufacturing.

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.

For full entry details, category descriptions, key dates, and eligibility criteria, visit www.hma.org.au
For more information and to organise interviews call Kate Baartz on 0408 688 547.