MTA Queensland hosted its 2025 Industry Awards Gala on Saturday, November 29, 2025, celebrating the outstanding achievements of businesses, innovators, and future leaders across the state’s automotive sector. The event brought together more than 200 industry professionals for an evening of recognition, live entertainment, and networking.
Across six prestigious award categories, the Gala shone a spotlight on the individuals and businesses shaping the future of Queensland’s automotive industry. Hosted by Ben Davis and featuring special guest speaker, Joanne Ciconte, the youngest ever female F1 Academy driver, the atmosphere of the evening was supercharged. MTA Queensland CEO Rod Camm said the calibre of finalists reflected the strength and innovation of the sector.
“Each of our award winners and finalists represents the very best of Queensland automotive,” Camm said.
“Their commitment to excellence, community, training, and future-focused innovation is what continues to move our industry forward. We are proud to recognise their achievements and their contribution to Queensland.”
The 2025 Industry Award Winners
Small Business Award for Excellence
Maryborough Service Centre (MSC) consistently demonstrates excellence across customer experience, technology adoption, and community engagement, while its investment in ADAS calibration and advanced diagnostics has positioned the business at the forefront of automotive capability in the Fraser Coast region.
Large Business Award for Excellence
Bundaberg Motor Group supports a range of community initiatives, including the Salvation Army, Bargara Football Club, EDON Place and the Gin Gin Meals on Wheels service. The Group places strong emphasis on their team, providing over 20 hours of monthly training, investing in apprenticeships, and incorporating innovative learning systems.
Innovation Award
Outback Armour has grown from a small Australian start-up into a globally recognised leader in Australian-designed and engineered suspension systems, the business remains focused on a single goal: to create high-performance suspension built for durability, harsh conditions, and real-world testing. With operations across Australia, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates, its innovative suspension solutions support a diverse range of vehicles, including military, defence, police, and anti-poaching fleets.
Community
General Manager of Car Craft, Ben Chesterfield’s advocacy has been instrumental in driving mental health awareness across the automotive industry. Championing the MTA Queensland’s TradeMutt automotive-themed work shirts, which proudly carry the message “Don’t Shut the Bonnet On It”, he is breaking the stigma against speaking out on mental health struggles.
Women in Industry
Anne McClure, Managing Director and owner of McClure Refinishing in Townsville, is an inaugural member of Auto Women and has been instrumental in shaping its mission to elevate and empower women across all areas of the industry.
Apprentice of the Year
Wade Burgess is a dedicated light vehicle mechanic at CPV Lifts Tech. Known for his strong work ethic and commitment to advancing his technical expertise, Wade has continued to build on his qualifications following the completion of his apprenticeship. He is currently undertaking an Outdoor Power Equipment Technology apprenticeship through the MTA Institute and plans to pursue formal electric vehicle training as the next step in his career.
Camm reinforced the importance of recognising the people and businesses advancing the sector.
“These winners are shaping the future of our industry,” he said.
“Their innovation, passion, and commitment to community and workforce development reflect the strength of Queensland automotive. We congratulate them all.”