.png)
The Summit 2025 Awards
​
The Summit Awards showcase and celebrate leadership and outstanding achievements by businesses, government departments, agencies, and individuals. Category nominations will be judged on their contribution to economic outcomes for Indigenous people and communities in NSW, through the growth of Indigenous owned businesses and their engagement in government and industry supply chains and the employment and career advancement of Indigenous people.
Entering The Summit Awards is a rewarding experience. It provides an opportunity to reflect on the goals, strategies, and the vision that has shaped your success, and the insights you gain help drive personal and organisational growth and leadership.
​
Winning awards often opens the door to new markets, broader networks and raises your business or personal brand within your sector or industry and among your peers.
​​
​​Key Dates
Award nominations close: 10 September 2025
Finalists announced: Mid-September 2025
Awards presented: 28th October 2025 at The Summit 2025 Awards & Gala Dinner​​
​
Judging Panel​
Louise McGrath
Head of Industry Development and Policy
Australian Industry Group (Ai Group)
​​
Louise McGrath is the Head of Industry Development and Policy at the Australian Industry Group. With over two decades of experience, she provides national leadership on trade, innovation, and industry growth. Louise represents Australian business in global forums and works with government to ensure policy supports competitiveness and opportunity.
Bob Hawes
CEO
Business Hunter
​​
Bob Hawes is the CEO of Business Hunter, leading the region’s peak business organisation. With decades of experience in economic development and regional leadership, Bob has played a central role in shaping the Hunter’s business ecosystem through advocacy, strategy, and infrastructure planning. His work connects business, government, and community to drive long-term regional prosperity.
Herb Smith
Founder
Dreamtime Tuka
​​
Herb Smith, a proud Wiradjuri man from Wellington, NSW, is the founder of Dreamtime Tuka. Inspired by stories and wisdom passed down through his Elders, Herb has built a business that celebrates the cultural significance of Australian native foods. Dreamtime Tuka not only shares bush foods with the wider community but also helps preserve and pass on vital cultural knowledge for future generations.
Nominations now closed