Local manufacturers prove the future is Hunter made

The theme of the 2025 Hunter Manufacturing Awards (HMA), Forging Our Future, certainly rang true at NEX during the week.

From start-ups and apprentices to global exporters and century-old innovators, the 30 October gala extravaganza celebrated a sector on the rise.

Now in its 21 st year, the event drew a record number of entries, more than 50% up on 2024, showcasing the ingenuity, craftsmanship and courage that continue to define the industry across the Hunter, Central Coast, Mid-North Coast and New England.

The Varley Group was inducted into the HMA Hall of Fame.

“Manufacturing in the region is more diverse, more advanced and more connected to the world than ever before,” HMA chair Jacqui Daley said.

“Our 2025 Manufacturer of the Year winners, Brain Industries and Agrana Fruit Aust