en.Wedoany.com Reported - The 2026 Hunter Manufacturing Awards (HMA) program has officially launched, with this year's theme, "We Make It Here," aiming to highlight the capability, innovation, and competitiveness of the manufacturing sector in Australia's Hunter, Central Coast, New England, and Mid North Coast regions.
The awards are now open for entries for their 22nd annual cycle. The launch event was held on May 14 at Brain Industries in Carrington, New South Wales, co-hosted by Agrana Fruit Australia. Both companies were winners at the 2025 Manufacturer of the Year awards. HMA stated that the 2025 awards cycle set records, with entries increasing by over 50% and the gala celebration being the largest in its history. This year's program is led by newly appointed Chair Chris Kelleher, who has served as an HMA judge for 13 years and brings extensive experience in manufacturing, commercialisation, and industry leadership roles.
Mr Kelleher noted that the awards reflect the diversity of manufacturing in the region. "Manufacturing is no longer defined by a single industry or work model—it spans advanced technology, food and beverage, medical products, textiles, energy, recycling, and many other sectors." Brain Industries Managing Director Gillian Summers said hosting the launch at the Carrington facility provided an opportunity to showcase regional manufacturing capabilities, emphasising, "Our region is one of Australia's leading advanced manufacturing export hubs and needs to boldly promote products ranging from batteries and defence to energy and industrial technology." Agrana Fruit Australia CFO Christine Chiesa believes the awards highlight the role of regional manufacturers in domestic and international supply chains, stating, "The fruit preparations and ingredients we produce supply leading brands in Australia and internationally, proving that regional manufacturers are competing at the highest level in global supply chains."
HMA also confirmed that winners in select categories will be fast-tracked directly as finalists in the Australian Manufacturing Awards through its partnership with Industry Update. Allegro Energy, which won the National Best Start-Up Award in 2025, is seen as an example of regional innovation gaining broader industry recognition through the program. The 2026 Hunter Manufacturing Awards are now open for entries.
This article is compiled by Wedoany. All AI citations must indicate the source as "Wedoany". If there is any infringement or other issues, please notify us promptly, and we will modify or delete it accordingly. Email: news@wedoany.com
