The Hunter Safety Awards will be returning for its eighth year with applications for the 2024 awards officially open.

After another successful award ceremony held in 2023, the event returns to recognise businesses and individuals within the region who go above and beyond safety requirements to demonstrate best-practice and innovative approaches to WHS.

The importance of workplace health and safety in the Hunter Region has been amplified this year after the devastating news of a fatal workplace accident on the site of the John Hunter Hospital redevelopment in Newcastle.

Following an incident at the worksite adjacent to the hospital, emergency services were summoned when a 20-year-old man became trapped.

NSW Ambulance paramedics promptly treated the man before transferring him to John Hunter Hospital in a critical condition, but unfortunately, he later succumbed to his injuries.

Founder of the Hunter Safety Awards, Sarah-Jane Dunford spoke about the accident and the importance of raising awareness.

“Accidents at the workplace are more common than we think, and sometimes result in horrific outcomes, including the recent incident at the new John Hunter Hospital redevelopment site,” Sarah-Jane said.

“Our thoughts are with the man’s family and friends and is a timely reminder as to why we’re dedicated to safety and providing a platform for those who have made safety their number one priority.”

Eligible local businesses and individuals are invited to submit their applications, demonstrating how they have integrated work, health, and safety into their core business practices.

Each finalist will automatically be considered for the prestigious WHS Business of the Year award, recognising ongoing commitment to safety in both their award applications and day-to-day operations.

This year, the Hunter Safety Awards is honoured to welcome back several sponsors, including AGL as the major sponsor for the seventh consecutive year.

AGL’s General Manager of Liddell and Bayswater, Len McLachlan expressed pride in supporting the best in safety within the Hunter region.

“Safety of our people, community, and customers is one of AGL’s core values,” Len McLachlan said.

“We are excited to celebrate those who are leading the way for a better future of work, health, and safety in the Hunter.”

The Hunter Safety Awards offers thirteen award categories, each recognising excellence in various aspects of WHS.

The event will be held on Friday 15 March 2024 at the Newcastle Exhibition Centre (NEX).

Submissions for the awards are now open, and all entries must be submitted by 5:00 pm on Monday 13 November 2023.

IMAGE | 2023 WHS Business of the Year Award winners, Enviroculture Maintenance Services.