2025

INDUSTRY AWARDS
&
GALA DINNER

15 OCTOBER
2025

6:30PM – 11:00PM

Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre
56 Goondoon Street, Gladstone Central, QLD 4680

Gladstone Engineering Alliance is proud to present our annual Industry Awards Night as our community celebrates the spirit of innovation, excellence and collaboration that is fostered within our highly competitive industry supply chain.

Held annually in October, the Major Industry Awards is a prestigious evening that recognises outstanding achievement across the Gladstone region’s industry, energy, and manufacturing sectors. Coinciding with the Major Industry, Energy & Manufacturing Conference, the Awards Night brings our region together for a night of celebration, connection, and inspiration.

The event honours excellence in safety, innovation, culture, social performance, and leadership, showcasing the individuals and organisations driving progress in the region. Guests enjoy a sophisticated evening of networking, entertainment, and fine dining as the local business community comes together to applaud those who set new benchmarks for success. With powerful stories and proud moments, the Major Industry Awards shine a spotlight on the talent shaping Gladstone’s future.

2025 Awards Partner

At AESTEC Services, we are proud to have contributed to the growth of the Gladstone region for over 20 years, including our 8-year partnership with GEA for the Major Industry, Energy & Manufacturing Conference. As a trusted Civil Construction and Maintenance company, we are driven to build a stronger future with the work we do.

Over the years, we’ve built lasting relationships, some spanning nearly two decades, and secured major contracts with the region’s key industries.

We value the strength of our community, with over 300 local employees. Our diverse range of trades and skill backgrounds allows us to offer innovative and comprehensive solutions for our clients.

Our clients are our partners – AESTEC’s Project Management enables you to continue with the work you do best, while our teams are on-site handling the rest. Our services are always adapting to meet evolving needs, and we have a fleet of heavy machinery vehicles ready to mobilise when you need it.

Beyond business, AESTEC Services actively contributes to our community by supporting organisations like the Boyne Tannum HookUp, GEA, local sports groups, and community events. We’re not just building infrastructure; we’re building a better future – one project at a time.

INDUSTRY AWARD NOMINATIONS ARE NOW OPEN!

All GEA Members that form part of our industry supply chain, from engineers and manufacturers to product and service providers, are invited to enter the awards and gain recognition for their achievements. This is an opportunity for businesses of all sizes to present their successes to a diverse group of industry influencers, and be acknowledged by their peers.

~ We are now accepting award nominations ~

To learn more about the awards, read our Award’s Nomination Guide.

To nominate, see the Award Categories below to download the relevant Award Entry Form and submit to communications@gea.asn.au.

Nominations close 4pm on August 6th, 2025.

DOWNLOAD AWARD NOMINATION GUIDE

EVENT TICKETS

$ 190

per person

Member Price
3 course meal
Drinks
Great entertainment
Tickets inclusive of GST

$ 1,800

Table of 10

Member Price
3 course meal
Drinks
Great entertainment
Tickets inclusive of GST

$ 230 per person

Non-Member Price
3 course meal
Drinks
Great entertainment
Tickets inclusive of GST

$ 2,100 Table of 10

Non-Member Price
3 course meal
Drinks
Great entertainment
Tickets inclusive of GST

TABLE

INDUSTRY AWARD CATEGORIES

ORGANISATION AWARDS

THE SAFETY EXCELLENCE AWARD

The GEA Safety Excellence Award celebrates an organisation that demonstrates a consistent and holistic commitment to both physical safety and mental wellbeing in the workplace.

This award recognises proactive efforts that go beyond simply avoiding accidents or injuries, and acknowledges initiatives that focus on promoting a safe, healthy, and supportive working environment.

This award honours those organisations that understand the interconnection between physical safety and mental health, recognising that both are crucial to a productive, positive, and sustainable workplace.

SAFETY EXCELLENCE
FINALISTS

CQG Consulting

Mackay Safety / 4PS Software

Monadelphous

VE Group

DOWNLOAD NOMINATION FORM FOR THIS CATEGORY

THE INNOVATOR AWARD

The GEA Innovator Award recognises an organisation that has demonstrated exceptional innovation in the pursuit of new opportunities and business growth. Businesses that go beyond traditional practices, embracing creative, forward-thinking approaches to adapt, evolve, and thrive in a dynamic environment.

The GEA Innovator Award honours organisations that not only react to changes in their industry but actively shape and lead those changes. Whether through the development of new products, services, or markets, or by adapting to current demands, this award acknowledges businesses at the forefront of innovative thinking and strategies.

The GEA Innovator Award celebrates those that are not just keeping pace with change but actively driving it, setting an example for others to follow in the pursuit of continual improvement and success.

INNOVATOR
FINALISTS

Berg Engineering

CQG Consulting

Mackay Safety / 4PS Software

Ubeeco Packaing Solutions

DOWNLOAD NOMINATION FORM FOR THIS CATEGORY

THE BEALE CULTURE AWARD

The GEA Beale Culture Award honours Steve Beale’s extraordinary commitment to people and seeks to recognise organisations that promote cultures of inclusion, respect, and opportunity.

This award celebrates organisations that have made significant strides in creating a workplace culture that prioritises employee well-being and growth. It acknowledges those who go beyond basic compliance with workplace standards to actively shape environments where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute to the organisation’s success.

* * * *

Steve Beale’s journey in the Gladstone industry supply chain began in 1995 with Rodd’s Bay Maritime, and by 2000, he had expanded operations into a 24-hour service, including ship repairs in Gladstone Harbour. In 2004, he co-founded MIPEC with his brother, Kyle, to address the region’s critical need for marine vessel repair and fabrication services. This initiative filled a vital gap in the local industry and also became a beacon for employment and training, eventually employing nearly 2000 people, with a focus on local opportunities, especially for apprentices and trainees.

Steve’s influence extended beyond the workplace, as he was deeply invested in the Gladstone community, supporting numerous local initiatives, including sponsorships, donations, and providing a life-saving defibrillator to improve public safety. As a long-serving president of the Australian Institute of Marine Surveyors (2006-2014), Steve’s leadership was marked by a strong vision for the region and a genuine love for its people, leaving an indelible mark on both the business and community landscape.

BEALE CULTURE
FINALISTS

CQG Consulting

Kinetic

Monadelphous

DOWNLOAD NOMINATION FORM FOR THIS CATEGORY

NEW AWARD FOR 2025

THE SOCIAL PERFORMANCE AWARD

The GEA Social Performance Award recognises and celebrates an organisation’s team that exemplifies excellence in ethical, sustainable, and socially impactful practices within the Gladstone Region.

This prestigious award recognises companies that demonstrate outstanding efforts in fostering positive relationships with employees, customers, contractors, suppliers, and the wider community.

The organisation must have a demonstrated commitment to engaging services from local businesses in the Gladstone region, particularly small to medium sized enterprises and First Nation businesses. Additionally, the organisation must show a strong commitment to workforce development through the implementation of apprenticeships and/or traineeships and diversity.

This includes providing opportunities for skill development, mentoring, and career progression, particularly for individuals from underrepresented groups or those facing barriers to employment. The organisation’s initiatives should reflect a dedication to long-term social impact, creating meaningful pathways for local talent and contributing to the sustainable growth of the region’s workforce.

The organisation must also demonstrate its support for local charities and/or sporting clubs through sponsorships, volunteer work or through other initiatives for the benefit of the overall local community.

SOCIAL PERFORMANCE
FINALISTS

Aestec Services

Alpha HPA

Deploy Workforce Solutions

McCosker Contracting

DOWNLOAD NOMINATION FORM FOR THIS CATEGORY

INDIVIDUAL AWARDS

THE WAYNE PEACHEY MEMORIAL AWARD

The GEA Wayne Peachey Memorial Award celebrates an employee who exemplifies tenacity, dedication, loyalty, and a commitment to going above and beyond in their role. This award honours individuals who champion quality service and serve as a beacon to others within the organisation.

* * * *

Wayne Peachey was the owner of Peachey’s Engineering, a successful business known for its hard work, dedication and passion for craftsmanship. After a lifetime of effort, Wayne realised his dream of cruising on a 60-foot catamaran, a testament to his tenacity and hard work. However, his commitment extended beyond business. For over 20 years, Wayne served as a skilled and reliable skipper for Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR), always ready to assist those in need, often putting others before himself. Tragically, Wayne passed away in 2009, while on his catamaran at Double Island Point. His death was a profound loss, to both his family and the Gladstone community, who relied on his leadership and generosity.

Wayne was also a founding member of the Gladstone Engineering Alliance (GEA), contributing to the growth of the engineering sector in the region. His legacy is honoured through this Award, which recognises outstanding service and a commitment to quality.

WAYNE PEACHEY MEMORIAL
FINALISTS

Ray Cooper – ATQLD

Kellie Davidson – Monadelphous

Craig Henderson – Onsite Rentals

Brendan Warwick – Rio Tinto

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THE FORTY CALIS MEMORIAL AWARD

The GEA Forty Calis Memorial Award recognises entrepreneurs who embody similar qualities; a clear vision, a willingness to push boundaries, and the ambition to leave a legacy in the engineering and supply chain sectors. This award honours commitment to innovation, excellence, and industry leadership, as well as the ability to inspire and guide others towards long-term success.

It celebrates individuals who not only excel in their entrepreneurial ventures but also make a meaningful impact on the industry’s development, much like Forty Calis did with Watson Engineering.

* * * *

Forty Calis was an influential figure in the Gladstone business community, known for his ability to think outside the box, take calculated risks, and find innovative solutions to challenges. Under his leadership, Watson Engineering became a cornerstone of the region’s engineering landscape, with Forty’s dedication to excellence driving both the success of his business and the broader industry. He was also known for his clear communication of vision and his determination to build something that would leave a lasting legacy. His entrepreneurial spirit, combined with a commitment to continuous improvement, made him a standout leader whose impact is still felt in the industry today.

FORTY CALIS MEMORIAL
FINALISTS

Matthew Campuitti – Walz Group

Nathan Howell – VE Group

Peter Masters – Masters Advisory

DOWNLOAD NOMINATION FORM FOR THIS CATEGORY

THE GEA INDUSTRY HALL OF FAME AWARD

The GEA – Industry Hall of Fame Award is a prestigious recognition given to individuals who have made remarkable, lasting contributions to the Central Queensland industry supply chain business community for over two decades. This award honours those who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, vision, and a sustained commitment to driving positive change and innovation within the region's supply chain sector. It celebrates individuals whose work has not only shaped the industry but also created a profound impact on the local community and beyond.

The primary focus of the GEA Industry Hall of Fame Award is to identify individuals who have played a pioneering role in the development and evolution of the industry supply chain within Central Queensland. These individuals are recognised for their passion to ensure local businesses are involved in major projects in the region, their ability to drive industry advancements, create new opportunities, and navigate challenges in ways that set them apart as leaders in the field.

Their contributions might include developing new business to business models, implementing ground-breaking technologies, or introducing innovative practices that have improved efficiency, sustainability, and overall business performance. Pioneers in the procurement network often anticipate future needs, setting the foundation for the industry's long-term success. Their influence extends across multiple facets of the supply chain, from logistics and procurement to warehousing and distribution, ensuring that the region’s businesses and communities are well-equipped to meet the demands of an ever-evolving global economy.

Individuals nominated for this award would be recognised in the business community for their commitment to ethics, diversity, inclusiveness, safety, social performance and the advancement of local businesses in the region.

DOWNLOAD NOMINATION FORM FOR THIS CATEGORY

2024
AWARD RECIPIENTS

The Forty Calis
Memorial Award

Linden Stiller

Stiller's Recycling

Wayne Peachey
Memorial Award

Joanne Smith

Xtreme Engineering

Beale Culture
Award

Greenscape
Gladstone

The Innovator
Award

Alpha HPA

The Safety Excellence
Award

KAEFER
Integrated Services

2024
AWARDED 10 YEAR MEMBERS

Avis

CDC Gladstone/ Buslink

Gladstone Area Water Board

MPV Sandblasting & Coating Services

Multitrade Building Hire

Northgroup Consulting

PRIZM Engineering

Pronto Autoglass Pty Ltd

Purcell’s Engineering

QMC Group

Rivers Insurance Brokers

RoadPak Industries Pty Ltd

Ulton

Xtreme Engineering Pty Ltd

ZNX (Jemena) Pty Ltd

Master of Ceremonies

Pinky

Breakfast Radio Announcer at Triple M

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

7 Whales in Moscow

7 Whales in Moscow is a local band playing original music and covers of popular Aussierock songs from the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s and a few new ones!

Roger Stewardson on lead guitar, John Adie on drums, Col Sandiland on bass, Gaston Boulanger on harps, Fiona Hodge on keys, Chris Allen on the Flugel, Mark Lord on sax and Brent Lanzon as the awesome frontman on vocals. Trevor Long is the sound guru.

7 Whales in Moscow play all the pub favourites and a heap of bangers. They all have been playing for 20 years plus, and now play for their enjoyment, and yours. If you fancy a foot tapping good time, they’ll provide the soundtrack.

Congratulations to our

2024 Industry Awards Winners and Celebrants

Forty Calis Memorial Award

Judges comments:

Award received on Linden’s behalf by Amy Ahchay.

“Linden’s win in this category is a testament to his role as both a leader and innovator in the field of recycling, through Stiller’s Recycling.
In an era where sustainable solutions are essential, Linden and his family exemplify exceptional values and demonstrate true leadership in their business and the local community.

Moreover, his commitment to contributing to community environmental initiatives and education reflects a leadership style that extends far beyond the confines of the business itself.

Linden’s efforts truly embody the spirit of innovation and sustainability that we celebrate today.

Linden is creating a lasting legacy that benefits not just his business but also the regional environment and community.”

Wayne Peachey Memorial Award

Judges comments:

“While all three nominees are deserving, I believe Joanne truly embodies the spirit of the Wayne Peachey Award. Her unwavering loyalty to her team and her tenacity in the face of challenges shine through in her approach of “we’ll just make it work.”

Her critical role in the organisation, along with her diverse responsibilities and commitment to quality products and services, is vital to the company’s success.

Joanne’s nomination showcases the exceptional qualities and skills she has developed over her 15 years in her role. The strong relationships she has built, both internally and externally, are evidenced by heartfelt testimonials, demonstrating that she is held in high esteem and great affection by her colleagues.”

Beale Culture Award

Judges comments:

“Greenscape Gladstone exemplifies a structured and progressive approach to evolving various aspects of their culture over time, all while effectively measuring their success. They implement comprehensive strategies that not only enhance employee engagement but also promote inclusivity and collaboration across all levels of the organisation.

Their commitment to fostering a positive and impactful workplace culture is truly commendable. By prioritising continuous improvement and actively seeking employee feedback, Greenscape Gladstone creates an environment where innovation thrives, and team members feel valued and empowered. This holistic approach not only strengthens their internal culture but also positions them as a leader in driving meaningful change within the industry. Their dedication to cultivating a culture of growth and support sets a remarkable example for others to follow.”

Innovator Award

Judges comments:

“Alpha HPA’s impressive improvement in ESG with the startup of their new facility sets a high standard in the industry. Their innovative Smart SX technology provides a novel method for upgrading industrial alumina to high-purity alumina, moving away from the traditional, energy-intensive synthesis of aluminium metal that results in high emissions and waste.

This approach effectively addresses environmental footprints, reduces emissions and waste, and fosters collaboration with existing businesses through the strategic use of technology.

Judging this category was a tough task, as all nominees presented strong cases.

Alpha HPA’s First Project stands out for its capacity to transform older, emissions-intensive technologies into lower carbon alternatives. The rapid reduction of emissions by 70% without compromising product quality is remarkable.”

Safety Excellence Award

Judges comments:

“The KAEFER submission showcases a remarkable commitment to safety, evidenced by an impressive 80% reduction in hand safety incidents. It is great to see targeted collaboration between frontline team members and dedicated support from senior leaders. Their approach fosters a psychologically safe environment where team members feel empowered to contribute, support one another, and take ownership of their safety outcomes.

<p>The inclusion of powerful lived experiences related to limb loss further underscores the importance of the Hand Safe initiative. KAEFER’s “Safe Hands” program exemplifies innovative training techniques that drive significant improvements in safety.

This award highlights businesses that actively engage in conversations and implement changes to protect their workforce, particularly concerning hand safety.”

Tickets

Tickets SOLD OUT

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Chris Bax Band

Chris Bax has been a consistent regular on the Central Queensland music scene for over 10 years, honing the craft mostly as a soloist.

A tireless work ethic has earnt the Chris Bax show a strong reputation in the Central Queensland region. Momentum and word of mouth has continued to land the CHRIS BAX BAND all over QLD at some iconic events.

At a CHRIS BAX BAND show you can be sure to have the night filled with sing along anthems along with all your favourite songs that will keep the party going.

The CHRIS BAX BAND will always deliver a high-energy, foot-stomping good time that’s guaranteed to leave audiences wanting more after the last note rings out.

Visit the Major Industry, Energy & Manufacturing Conference Webpage

Major Industry Conference

Nominations closed!

A big thank you to everyone who took the time to submit their nominations for our Industry Awards Night. Your enthusiasm and support make this event truly special.

2022 Industry Awards and Gala Dinner Highlights

The Gladstone Engineering Alliance (GEA) Industry Awards is our community’s opportunity to celebrate the spirit of innovation, excellence and collaboration that is fostered within our highly competitive industry supply chain. Last year the awards were presented at the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre on 6 October 2022.

We showcased excellence in business, and the significant contribution the supply chain makes to Central Queensland’s economy and community.