- Hedweld founder recognised for a lifetime of innovation, industry leadership and safer mining
- Hall of Fame induction announced at the 2026 Hunter Manufacturing Awards Gala Night on Friday 30 October 2026
Mining safety innovator and engineering entrepreneur Ian Hedley has been inducted into the Hunter Manufacturing Hall of Fame for a career spanning more than 45 years of innovation, leadership, and contribution to Australian manufacturing.
Mr Hedley, founder of the Hedweld Group of Companies, was inducted in recognition of a legacy that has helped improve safety standards across the global mining industry while creating opportunities for generations of regional workers, tradespeople and engineers.
Over a career spanning more than four decades, Mr Hedley has helped transform mining safety and maintenance practices through Australian-designed engineering solutions that have had a lasting impact on the global resources sector.
Established in 1980 as Hedweld Engineering, the business founded by Mr Hedley grew from humble beginnings as a sole trader in regional New South Wales into the Hedweld Group of Companies, an internationally recognised manufacturer exporting specialised products to 38 countries. Driven by Mr Hedley's commitment to solving real-world industry challenges, the company developed world-leading innovations, including the Trilift® range of maintenance support equipment and Safe-Away® access systems, now used by major mining operations worldwide.
Over the years and under Mr Hedley's leadership, Hedweld has employed hundreds of people across its operations, creating skilled careers and helping strengthen Australia's sovereign manufacturing capability.
Apprenticeships, training, and skills development have remained central to the company's philosophy, creating opportunities for future generations of tradespeople and engineers.
Today, the business remains a family enterprise, with daughter and Managing Director Kristy Hedley leading the company and Ian Hedley continuing to contribute through mentoring, innovation and product development.
Speaking to more than 400 guests during his induction, Mr Hedley said he was humbled by the recognition.
“This is truly an unexpected honour. Hedweld has always had an innovative culture, and it is not just me as an innovator; we have an innovative team that always considers safety first and then, secondly, finding a better way to do things. It is humbling to know that our products have positively impacted the manufacturing and mining industries, and I would like to thank the HMA board for this recognition,” Mr Hedley said.
Hunter Manufacturing Awards Chair Chris Kelleher said Ian Hedley's impact extended far beyond engineering innovation, reflecting the qualities the Hall of Fame was created to recognise.
"Ian has combined practical ingenuity with a determination to make mining safer, creating solutions that have transformed maintenance practices across the industry. His innovations have earned international recognition, but what makes his contribution truly remarkable is the lasting impact he has had on the people and industries he has served. Through his leadership, he has created skilled jobs, supported regional communities and helped establish one of the region’s most successful manufacturing and engineering businesses," Mr Kelleher noted.
The Hunter Manufacturing Awards Hall of Fame celebrates individuals and organisations that have demonstrated exceptional leadership, mentorship and a vision for a stronger manufacturing future for the region.
Kristy Hedley said the Hall of Fame recognition reflected the values that have guided her father's career and shaped the company's success.
"To our family, and to everyone who has been part of Hedweld's journey, this recognition is incredibly special. Ian has never been motivated by awards or recognition. He has always been driven by finding better ways to solve problems, improve safety, and create opportunities for others. That's what has guided every decision he's made throughout the business.
This recognition reflects not only his achievements, but also the dedication of the many employees, customers and industry partners who have been part of that journey,” Ms Hedley said.
The Hunter Manufacturing Awards Hall of Fame was established in 2024 to honour individuals and organisations that have made a sustained and significant contribution to manufacturing across the Hunter, Central Coast, New England and Mid North Coast. Inductees are selected by the HMA Board in recognition of their long-term impact on industry, leadership, innovation and community contribution.
Since its introduction, the Hall of Fame has recognised some of the manufacturing sector's most influential contributors, including inaugural inductee Joss De Iuliis in 2024 and Varley Group in 2025.
Mr Hedley was formally inducted into the Hunter Manufacturing Hall of Fame at the 2026 Hunter Manufacturing Awards Gala Night, surrounded by industry peers, colleagues, family and friends at NEX Newcastle on Friday 30 October.
