More than 70 entries across 16 categories have been shortlisted in the 2026 Hunter Manufacturing Awards, highlighting regional industrial capability, technological innovation, and supply chain growth across the Hunter and surrounding areas. Now in its 22nd year, the annual awards program evaluates industrial enterprises ranging from emerging start-ups and family-owned firms to major industrial operators, along with individual leaders in manufacturing engineering and management.
The 2026 finalist line-up features 29 commercial enterprises, including 3ME Technology, AGRANA Fruit, Apollo Engineering, Aruma Manufacturing, Bekaert Australia, Bennetts Steel, Biofeed, Chamberlain Australia, Circular Organics, Design Anthology, Elecbrakes, Grolia, Industrial Gaskets & Sealants, Kaebel Leisure, Novecom, Omnia Wheel, Pitcrew AI, Protective Fencing, SafeGauge, Sandvik Ground Support Australia, Senquip, Steber International, Streamline Blast Solutions, Supacell, Talking Stones, Tomago Aluminium, UGL Transport, Vanhomes, and Whiteley.
Four joint industry partnerships were shortlisted in the collaboration categories, featuring Australian Electric Vehicle Specialists with Hedweld Group, Bekaert Australia with DCA Engineering, Downer with Sydney Trains, and Resourceful Living with Glendale City Centre. Furthermore, 12 regional professionals were named individual finalists: Jayden Edmonds, Eliza McLean, Jack Jenkinson, Jye Hollier, Tony Stace, Leo Aspite, Brody Kyle, Amanda Bloom, Graham Lyall, Kieran Burgess, Kellie Whybrow, and Samantha Swain.
Winners will be announced at the Hunter Manufacturing Awards Gala Dinner at NEX Newcastle on Friday 30 October 2026.
Chair of the Hunter Manufacturing Awards, Chris Kelleher stated that the breadth of finalists reflects expanding commercial confidence across the regional manufacturing sector.
“This year’s finalists represent an outstanding cross-section of our manufacturing community, from emerging businesses and future industry leaders through to established manufacturers with decades of experience,” Chris said.
“It is particularly pleasing to see new entrants putting themselves forward alongside long-standing participants, reflecting growing confidence across the sector and a willingness to share the stories behind their success and of our region. Our local manufacturers continue to prove that world-class outcomes do not have to come from somewhere else. They are made here through hard-won expertise, advanced technology and a deep understanding of local industries and markets. At a time when local manufacturing is experiencing such renewed confidence and significant investment, the finalists highlight the ingenuity, expertise and ambition that continue to drive the industry forward.
“The finalists are exceptional ambassadors for our industry and community, and we congratulate them on reaching this stage of the program. We look forward to bringing the manufacturing community together to celebrate their achievements and share the stories behind their success and our region.
“These businesses and individuals are designing, engineering, fabricating and manufacturing products that support local jobs, strengthen regional supply chains and contribute to Australia’s industrial capability. Their work reflects the strength, resilience and ongoing importance of manufacturing in our region and helps shape the future of our industry.
“Together, they are a powerful reminder that we make it here.”
IMAGE | 2026 Hunter Manufacturing Awards finalists announced as regional industrial momentum builds
