Hunter business leader and former Business Hunter President Ian Pedersen has been awarded a Service to the Region Award as part of Business NSW’s 200th anniversary celebrations. Held at Sydney Town Hall, the ceremony recognised 10 regional leaders from across New South Wales for long-term service, advocacy and economic contribution.

The award presentation coincided with the 140th anniversary of Business Hunter, where Ian served on the board for 17 years. His historical involvement included sitting on the federal taskforce that advised former Prime Minister John Howard following the closure of the BHP Newcastle Steelworks, as well as supporting regional commercial recovery operations after the 1989 Newcastle earthquake.

Ian currently serves as Chair of Regional Development Australia Hunter, alongside past leadership appointments with Business NSW and Engineers Australia. The award was formally presented by Governor of New South Wales, Margaret Beazley AC KC.

Chief Executive Officer of Business Hunter, Bob Hawes stated that the recognition reflects over three decades of executive leadership and community advocacy.

“Ian has devoted more than 35 years to serving the Hunter with distinction, generosity and vision,” Bob said.

“His leadership has helped shape some of the most important chapters in our region’s recent history. Whether it was supporting the Hunter through recovery from the Newcastle earthquake, advocating for the workforce and business community after the closure of the Newcastle Steelworks or championing infrastructure and regional development projects, Ian has always put the region first.”

Service to the Region Award recipient, Ian Pedersen noted that regional development relies on broad community and business participation.

“It was an unexpected honour to have been recognised by Business NSW for my service to business and the community in the Hunter Region, especially when there are so many other eminent business people in Business Hunter and our region,” Ian said.

President of Business NSW, Joseph Carrozzi AM added that the award recipients represent key regional economic drivers across New South Wales.

“Across NSW, there are people who quietly get on with the job of making their communities stronger,” Joseph said.

“They create opportunities, support local businesses and bring people together.”

IMAGE | Regional advocate Ian Pedersen receives Business NSW Service to the Region Award at 200th anniversary gala