The region's engineering awards recognises the pinnacle of Hunter innovation, from heavy machinery to energy storage; medical innovation to (somewhat literally) reinventing the wheel.
Beresfield manufacturer Omnia, known for its innovative multi-directional 'omni wheels' with 360-degree turn mobility, is the Hunter's small-scale manufacturer of the year, recognised for its outstanding export growth.
The same award for larger-scale business went to Apollo Engineering, which has established itself as a leader in advanced manufacturing in regional NSW.
The Hunter Manufacturing Awards bills itself as the champion of the industry's innovation, resilience and growth. But, aside from its roster of accolades recognising the best the region's engineers, manufacturers and technicians have to offer, the 20th awards gala on Friday evening inducted its first name into a new hall of fame.
Joss De Iuliis - arguably the father of the Hunter Manufacturing Awards - has played a pivotal role in not only shaping the manufacturing landscape of the region but also in promoting local businesses on a national stage.
In September 2004, he reached out to fellow manufacturing leader Bob Cowan after learning of an association on the Central Coast that was profiling and promoting manufacturers in their region. Mr De Iuliis suggested something similar could be done for the Hunter's manufacturers.
That conversation sparked the creation of the Hunter Manufacturing Awards and and soon after, a group of like-minded manufacturers agreed on the need to recognise and promote the achievements of the region's industries.
Notwithstanding his stake in establishing the two-decades' running gala, Mr De Iuliis has tenured career in the Hunter as a businessman, innovator and winegrower.
HMA Chair Jacqui Daley says the newly established hall of fame honours individuals and companies that have made a significant and lasting impact on the region's manufacturing industry.
"We created this category to recognise those who have not only contributed to the growth and success of the industry but who have also lifted the people, organisations, suppliers, and customers around them," Ms Daley said. "The hall of fame celebrates those who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, mentorship, and a vision for a stronger manufacturing future for the region."
HMA 2024 continue to celebrate the excellence of the region's manufacturers. This year's winners are:
Excellence in Product Design Award: SafeGauge, for the SafeTest Tachometer and MultiTool Pro. These cutting-edge tools enhance safety in heavy machinery maintenance.
Collaboration Partnership Award: The Melt, Allegro Energy and Muswellbrook Shire Council, for their groundbreaking work on a first-of-its-kind Microemulsion Redox Flow Battery. This partnership combined Allegro's innovative energy storage technology with The Melt's expertise in engineering and design.
Outstanding Start-Up Award: Allegro Energy, which is revolutionising energy storage.
Excellence in Building Workforce Capability for the Future Award: Morgan Engineering, for its innovative, in-house Apprenticeship Training Program.
Excellence in Manufacturing Capability Award: Omnia Wheel, for its strategic investment in automation and new machinery. Upgrading to advanced tools and automated systems reduced production costs by 54 per cent, increased output from 500,000 to 2 million wheels annually, and cut labour requirements by 95%.
Excellence in Export and Global Supply Chain Award: Whiteley, a leader in infection prevention, medical device reprocessing, and cleaning solutions that exports to more than 35 countries. Its Tomago-based facility produces world-class disinfectants and healthcare products under stringent quality standards.
Excellence in Innovation Award: SAPHI, for Shellshock AI, its advanced monitoring and control system designed to enhance safety, efficiency, and real-time decision-making across a range of industries including mining and transport.
Rising Star Award: Jamie Woods of TW Woods fabrication and engineering services, for his dedication and innovative leadership. He started as an apprentice and rose to general manager where he has introduced critical improvements.
Apprentice of the Year Award: Christie Hayward of Westrac, for showcasing her commitment and passion for boilermaking. Relocating to pursue her apprenticeship, she has embraced hands-on learning and developed a strong skill set.
Excellence in Marketing Award: Out Of The Square Media and Guts Creative - joining forces to rebrand Ampcontrol and transform it into a leader of the global energy revolution.
Excellence in Sustainable Operations Award: Signarama Tuggerah for demonstrating to the world that sustainability can be a profitable part of business. It achieved remarkable sustainability milestones that culminated in a groundbreaking project for the Paris Olympic games. Signarama partnered with key industry leaders Spandex, Avery Denison, and HP to develop and implement eco-friendly signage for the Australian Olympic team.
Manufacturer of the Year (Less than 50 Employees) Award: Omnia, which has experienced remarkable export growth. Up to 94.2% of its sales in FY25 will come from international markets. Known for its innovative omni wheel technology, Omnia has invested heavily in research and development, automation, and sustainability.
Manufacturer of the Year (50 or More Employees) Award: Apollo Engineering, which has established itself as a leader in advanced manufacturing in regional NSW. It drives innovation with cutting-edge solutions such as its patented centrifugal filter and robotic welding systems. Its expansion into international markets includes $850,000 worth of exports to Indonesia.
Manufacturing Leader Award: Peter McKinnon of Omnia. He has operated Omnia Wheel for more than 18 years, from humble beginnings with three people to industry leader with 73 employees.
Hall of Fame Award: Joss De Iuliis.
