19 winners and over 50 finalists have been celebrated at Business Hunter’s annual Hunter Business Awards for 2023, recognising the most inspiring organisations and individuals across the Hunter Valley.
Recognising the Hunter’s finest professionals in a broad range of categories the evening included an array of entertainment and formal proceedings.
Acting Business Hunter CEO, Sheena Martin said the annual award gala honours businesses that have redefined success through exemplary contributions.
“It’s reassuring that a growing number of businesses have success and achievements to share,” Sheena said.
“It’s indicative of the tremendous resilience, innovative spirit and capacity for problem-solving that exists within the region.”
Among the local businesses recognised, The Marketing GP took out Employer of Choice <20 employees, recognised for their workplace culture and contributions to the community.
Managing Director of The Marketing GP, Holly Martin, said that the award win was a pleasant surprise for the whole team.
“Taking out the award for employer of choice is a real honour and something we are extremely proud of,” Holly said.
“Working in the marketing space, we are always working with our clients to enter them in awards and have their successes recognised and celebrated.
“Rarely, do we put our own hat in the ring, this is a good reminder for us to take the time to stop and take stock of what we are doing – and then put in a submission for relevant awards!”
Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group (NCIG) were another business awarded on the night, taking out the Hunter Water Love Water award.
Crowning the win was CIG’s Recycled Water Project, which saves 275 million litres of drinking water each year – or the annual water usage of just over 1,700 residential homes.
Hunter Water Managing Director, Darren Cleary congratulated all three finalists for their work in conserving our most precious resource.
“NCIG, Ingenia Holiday Parks and The Wests Group are demonstrating that it’s smart business to love water,” Darren said.
“By working with Hunter Water, these organisations play an important role in saving water for our community. Something that’s especially important as we move into a drier climate over summer.
“The savings they have made are an example for everyone of how we can all play our part to save water in and around our homes and businesses.”
Another key category was Contribution to the region, which is focused on the ways that local businesses can give back to the Hunter community, and was awarded to PKF Sydney and Newcastle.
Partner at PKF, Clayton Hickey said the team feels a deep sense of appreciation for receiving the award.
“At PKF, we recognise the significance of making a positive influence on the community we have the privilege of doing business in, and this continues to drive us in our pursuit of creating meaningful change,” Clayton said.
“Even better, our whole team gets involved, making this a critical part of our DNA.”
The full list of winners includes:
Outstanding Community Organisation
Singleton Neighbourhood Centre
Outstanding Start Up
Hey Zomi
Excellence in Sustainability
Imaginelle
Excellence in Innovation
Hi-Vis Group
Hunter Water Love Water
Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group
Excellence in Small Business
SAPHI
Excellence in Large Business
Hi-Vis Group
President’s Award
Richard Jones OAM of Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service
