The Hunter Manufacturing Awards (HMA) proudly commemorates its 20th year in 2024, a landmark anniversary that underlines the Hunter region's integral contribution to the Australian manufacturing sector.

The recent winners from the 2023 Awards, Hi-Vis Group and Senquip, demonstrate the competitive edge and innovative spirit that are the hallmarks of manufacturing in the Hunter.

Carrington-headquartered Hi-Vis won the 2023 Manufacturer of the Year – 50 Employees or More Award, along with the Excellence in Sustainable Operations Award and the Excellence in Manufacturing Capability Award.As a market leader in highly intelligent visual information systems (HIVIS), its products have been keeping Australians safe for more than 40 years. Hi-Vis has made significant investments in manufacturing technology and enjoys a close relationship with the University of Newcastle.

Hi-Vis Managing Director Brett Watson said the company was deeply honoured and felt very privileged to win three awards. The other major award winner, for Manufacturer of the Year – Less than 50 Employees, was telemetry products maker Senquip. The Port Stephens-based business manufactures telemetry equipment that monitors and controls remote machinery in harsh industrial environments.

Senquip also picked up the Excellence in Product Design Award.Its patented telemetry products are highly adaptable and replace the need for bespoke solutions. Senquip sells globally with significant potential for growth in each of its international markets.

Highlighting the diversity and adaptability of the region, reusable menstrual disc maker Hey Zomi, took out the 2023 Excellence in Marketing Award. Co-founder Zoe Fehlberg said “she loved” that the awards celebrate manufacturers across all industries, including period care. “It's so exciting at this stage of our business to be recognised as manufacturing leaders in our region,” Ms Fehlberg said. “To us, this award validates our vision – to create strong innovation with the highest-quality Australian manufacturing that empowers menstruators everywhere.”

Jacqui Daley, Chair of the HMA board, expressed her enthusiasm for the 20th anniversary, stating, “Twenty years is a significant milestone for the Hunter Manufacturing Awards, reflecting not just the longevity but also the progressive vision of the Hunter’s manufacturing community. We have consistently witnessed our local manufacturers adapt, innovate, and excel, setting standards for the industry nationwide. As we celebrate this anniversary, we look forward to fostering even more success stories and paving the way for the next generation of manufacturing excellence.” For more information on the HMA, to submit a nomination, or to learn about sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.hma.org.au or email info@hma.org.au. Nominations close on 21 August.

The awards will take place at NEX Newcastle on Friday 18 October 2024.