HMA celebrates two decades of manufacturing milestones with 2024 finalists

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Image credit: Hunter Manufacturing Awards

The Hunter Manufacturing Awards (HMA) announced the finalists for its 2024 awards, coinciding with its 20th Anniversary Gala Awards Night. 

The event will take place on Friday, 18 October 2024, at NEX Newcastle, celebrating two decades of innovation and excellence in the manufacturing sector across the Central to Mid-North Coast and Hunter regions.

HMA Chair Jacqui Daley reflected on the industry’s growth over the past 20 years: “In the two decades since the inaugural HMA, which included winners such as Varley, Newcastle Machine Shop, and Cowan Manufacturing, the industry has expanded into advanced manufacturing, integrating with defence, aerospace, mining, chemical processing, construction, and energy generation.”

The 2024 awards aim to recognise not only the region’s manufacturing growth but also the commitment of the companies and leaders propelling this evolution. 

“We see incredible achievements in areas like automation, sustainability, and global competitiveness. This year’s awards reflect the determination and belief these companies have in the future of manufacturing in the Hunter,” Daley added.

Among the finalists are several first-time entrants, including Process Automation and Controls, Agrana Fruit, NET Modular, Nova Team Australia, and Wobble-Tee Sprinklers. 

Companies such as Allegro Energy Pty Ltd and Australian Electric Vehicle Specialists also highlight the region’s growing manufacturing diversity. 

According to HMA, Allegro Energy’s focus on Long Duration Energy Storage technologies has impressed judges, with Judging Convenor Michael Murray noting its potential for achieving net-zero emissions.

Established companies like Tomago Aluminium continue to excel in the industry. 

“Tomago Aluminium has been a part of the HMA journey since 2006, remaining at the forefront of manufacturing by continuously adapting to today’s rapidly changing market,” Murray stated.

The Gala Awards Night will feature special guest speakers, HMA judges, board members, and the 2024 finalists. 

Daley emphasised the significance of this milestone: “Twenty years is a significant milestone for the HMA, and it’s a testament to the resilience and innovation of Hunter manufacturers.”

2024 HMA finalists:

Companies:

  • Advanciv
  • AE Gibson & Sons
  • AGRANA Fruit
  • Allegro Energy Pty Ltd
  • Ampcontrol
  • Apollo Engineering
  • Australian Electric Vehicle Specialists
  • BAE Systems
  • Deeps Engineering
  • Design Anthology
  • Downer Group
  • Emergent Group
  • Hunter New England Local Health District
  • InfraBuild Steel
  • Janus Electric
  • Molycop
  • Morgan Engineering
  • NET Modular
  • Nepean Power
  • Nova Team Australia
  • Omnia
  • Out Of The Square Media & Guts Creative
  • Phoenix Engineering and Manufacturing Solutions
  • Process Automation and Controls
  • Resourceful Living
  • Safe-Gauge Pty Ltd
  • SAPHI Pty Ltd
  • Signarama Tuggerah
  • Steber International
  • The Melt
  • Tomago Aluminium
  • TW Woods
  • Wobble-Tee Sprinklers
  • Whiteley
  • 4id Solutions
  • 4 Seasons Insulation

Individuals:

  • Ashley Nunn (Nepean Power)
  • Brendan Nicholson (Deeps Engineering)
  • Christie Hayward (Westrac)
  • Corey Bell (Molycop)
  • Declan Gallagher (Nepean Power)
  • Jamie Woods (TW Woods)
  • Jayden Edmonds (Downer Group)
  • Luke Wilson (Molycop)
  • Patrick Fisher (AE Gibson & Sons)

Event details:

  • Date: Friday, 18 October 2024
  • Location: NEX, King Street, Newcastle
  • Tickets: $220 per person
  • Dress Code: Black tie with a splash of gold
  • RSVP: Friday, 11 October 2024
  • Tickets on sale now: HMA Gala Tickets