Australia’s top-performing tradespeople were celebrated at the 2024 Australian Trades Small Business Champion Awards, held at The Star in Sydney on August 23.
The event, often referred to as the ‘Logies of trades small business,’ recognised over 50 of the nation’s most dynamic and innovative tradespeople.
Hosted by Nine News’ Peter Overton, the gala highlighted the critical role of small businesses in the trade sector, acknowledging their contributions to both local communities and the broader Australian economy.
The awards spotlighted various categories, with Anthony Antoun of Mr and Ms Group winning the 2024 Young Small Business Champion Trades Entrepreneur title.
Riley McCarthy, nearing the end of his apprenticeship at Macu Kitchens Mildura, was named the 2024 Apprentice Champion.
In the plumbing category, Reed Plumbing and Drainage Solutions of Keilor East, Victoria, was awarded Champion Large Plumber.
DCM Plumbing & Drainage from Burleigh Heads, Queensland, and Crucial Plumbing Services at Seven Hills, NSW, took home the titles of Champion Medium and Small Plumber, respectively.
Jet Plus Plumbing, owned by Luke Kennedy, was recognised as the Australian Small Business Champion Trade Leader, while Andrew Vanny Plumbing won the 2024 Champion Tradie title.
Other notable winners included Phoenix Energy in the Large Electrical Business category, ARC Electrical & Data as the Champion Medium Electrical Business, and Ruby Homes as Australia’s best Large Builder.
The awards also celebrated achievements in building design, architecture, carpentry, painting, roofing, and more, highlighting the diversity within the trade sector.
The awards were independently judged, considering factors such as growth strategies, profitability, eco-friendliness, and community support.
Steve Loe, the Awards Founder, emphasised the importance of recognising the contributions of small business tradies, particularly in light of current challenges in the trade industries.