We all know the type. The manager who somehow keeps the wheels turning when everything’s on fire. The young gun who’s already running rings around people twice their age. The apprentice who actually wants to learn and works hard.
And the parts manager who can find that one obscure clip faster than you can say “backorder”.
And yet every year, the vast majority of them don’t get nominated because “they wouldn’t want the fuss” or you don't think you have time to do it. Rubbish.
The 2026 Paint & Panel Bodyshop Awards individual categories are open for nominations, and this is your gentle reminder (read: firm nudge) to stop being humble on everyone else’s behalf or even your own behalf.
Who should you be nominating?
Manager of the Year
The one holding it all together—staff, customers, insurers, the lot. If they make it look easy, they’re probably working twice as hard as everyone else.
Emerging Leader (Under 30)
Got someone under 30 who’s already stepping up, making decisions and driving change? These are the future leaders of the industry - don’t let them fly under the radar.
Apprentice of the Year (Under 26)
The ones who turn up early, ask questions, and don’t disappear when the job gets tricky. If you’ve got a good one, you’ll know about it.
Parts Manager of the Year
The unsung heroes. If your shop runs smoothly, chances are it’s because your parts person has everything where it should be, when it should be—no drama, no delays.
Your deadline - don't miss your cue
Nominations close on 22 May, so don’t leave it until the final scene and then wish you’d done something about it. The industry night of nights is on 27 November at Movie World on the Gold Coast so just expect months of film puns.
This industry is full of people quietly doing a brilliant job. The awards are your chance to shine a light on them. So nominate your colleague. Nominate your boss. Nominate your apprentice. Nominate yourself.
Just don’t be the person who says, “Oh yeah, they would’ve been perfect for that” after the winners are announced.
Because by then… the credits have rolled.
This awards program is made possible by our fabulous sponsors. Thank you for your support.
