The Hunter Manufacturing Awards (HMA) announced its coveted list of finalists for 2023 with the winners to be revealed on 20 October at the Newcastle Exhibition & Convention Centre in New South Wales.
With a theme, “Made in the Hunter, for the world,” the event will put a spotlight on the region’s trailblazers and innovators, fostering “vibrant and enduring” manufacturing practices.
HMA Chair Jacqui Daley underscored the importance of celebrating innovations and dedication as companies strive for global prominence, saying, “Hunter companies are transforming traditional manufacturing processes.”
Daley added, “Many are now increasing the levels of design for technologically complex, innovative, reliable, affordable, and available products, which are better, more sustainable, and solve a variety of society’s problems. It enables them to compete globally.”
The list of finalists this year includes both newcomers and seasoned veterans. Among the first-timers are Hey Zomi, Herb Urban, and the innovative Hunter start-up No Thru.
Meanwhile, established entities such as Hedweld, Resourceful Living, Whiteley, and Tomago Aluminium bring their extensive experience to the competition.
A standout among the finalists is No Thru, which has developed an innovative interlocking security system for temporary construction fences.
This system prioritises security, safety, and efficient installation, eliminating the need for tools and additional components during setup.
Michael Murray, the convenor of the judging panel, commended the diversity of products featured among this year’s finalists.
He expressed excitement about the broad spectrum of innovative products emanating from the Hunter, highlighting how the awards consistently reveal outstanding companies producing top-quality products for the global market.
Hedweld Group of Companies, headquartered in the Hunter Valley, has already established itself as a global leader in designing, manufacturing, and distributing mining sector products.
With a focus on enhancing worker safety, minimising machine downtime, and boosting productivity, Hedweld’s niche products have few competitors.
HMA said the company holds strong international patents on their Trilift products, allowing for global distribution without concerns of competition.
Resourceful Living, another notable finalist, is combating plastic pollution by transforming discarded plastic into functional furniture and other items.
This process, which takes as little as two days, reduces plastic waste and contributes to a circular economy. Co-founder Jess Hodge emphasises their commitment to sustainability and global environmental responsibility.
HMA represents all businesses actively engaged in the manufacturing sector and their allies in the Upper Hunter, Lower Hunter, Central Coast, Lake Macquarie, Newcastle, Port Stephens, and Mid-North Coast regions.
