Our
History
Championing Manufacturing Excellence
since 2004
Since its inception, HMA has driven local manufacturing to embrace new technologies and innovative practices. Today, the Hunter region's manufacturing sector is gaining global recognition for its productivity and innovation.
The Hunter Manufacturing Awards (HMA) was founded in 2004 with a simple but powerful mission: to shine a spotlight on the exceptional work being done across the manufacturing industry in the Hunter region.
Recognising the need to elevate and celebrate the Hunter's manufacturing sector, Bob brought together a passionate group of like-minded individuals who would go on to form the inaugural HMA committee.
This visionary team included:
A Legacy of Strength, A Future of Innovation
In those early days, the Hunter was still widely known as a “steel city,” proud of its strong industrial roots and traditional production methods. Some of the first HMA winners included local icons such as Varley, Newcastle Machine Shop, M&S Fabrications, Steel River Manufacturing, Onesteel, and Cowan Manufacturing.
Over the past two decades, the region has undergone a remarkable transformation. While our industrial heritage remains a foundation, the Hunter has evolved into a hub of advanced manufacturing, innovation, and sustainable technology. Today, our manufacturers are not only regional trailblazers—they’re global leaders.
Browse the award recipients and Galleries from our History of Hunter Manufacturing Awards.
20 years on
2024 marked the 20th anniversary of the Hunter Manufacturing Awards. Today, we celebrate the progress, the people, and the pioneering spirit that continue to shape the future of manufacturing in our region.
Is your business part of Our region?
If you’re based in the Hunter, Central Coast, New England, or Mid-North Coast, and actively engaged in manufacturing, this is your time to shine.
Whether you’re a start-up or an established leader, HMA is about recognising businesses of all sizes, celebrating your impact, and helping you forge new pathways.
HMA LGA's include:
- Central Coast
- Cessnock
- Dungog
- Lake Macquarie
- Maitland
- Mid Coast
- Muswellbrook
- New England
- Newcastle
- Port Macquarie - Hastings
- Port Stephens
- Singleton
- Upper Hunter
Want to nominate someone for HMA 2026?
Get the latest from Hunter Manufacturing Awards