Geelong’s manufacturers took centre stage at the Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame Awards last week, in the presence of leaders from across the state.
Congratulations to Geelong Manufacturing Council (GMC) member winners Farm Foods and Hanlon Industries. Hanlon’s took out the 2024 Manufacturer of the Year – Medium Business. Farm Foods, winners last year in the medium category, were named 2024 Victorian Manufacturer of Year, Regional.
Four members of the GMC were finalists at the Awards, chosen from nearly 200 entries. Past Hall of Fame inductees Godfrey Hirst (2003), among the longest surviving manufacturers in the region, and Integra Systems (2013), leaders in Industry 4.0, joined Farm Foods and Hanlon Industries, solidifying Geelong’s position as a powerhouse in the manufacturing sector.
Farm Foods: Manufacturer of the Year – Regional
Farm Foods CEO Greg Hughes praised his team for their adaptability, quality, and innovation, as well as the company’s owners for their continued investment in people and the business. Farm Foods collaborates with top retailers both in Australia and internationally, delivering award-winning products that set the standard for excellence.
Hanlon Industries: Manufacturer of the Year – Medium Business
Elly Hanlon, Joint CEO of Hanlon Industries, celebrated the company’s growth over the past 25 years, expanding to 200 employees across three states. She credited the team’s hard work and dedication for the company’s ongoing success. Hanlon Industries provides steel products and services to a wide variety of industries including road, rail, airports & commercial developments.
A Regional Strength
The strength of Geelong’s manufacturing sector was particularly evident in the Manufacturer of the Year – Regional category, with Farm Foods, Hanlon Industries, and Godfrey Hirst making up the finalist list.
For a full list of award winners, visit [business.vic.gov.au](https://www.business.vic.gov.au).
Women in Manufacturing Strategy Launch
At the awards, Minister for Jobs & Industry and Minister for Women, Natalie Hutchins MP, launched Victoria’s Women in Manufacturing Strategy. As part of the launch, Viva Energy’s refinery featured in a video showcasing women in non-traditional roles within the sector, demonstrating the growing presence and importance of women in manufacturing.
Read more about the initiative at [Making It Equal: Victoria’s Women in Manufacturing Strategy](https://www.dffh.vic.gov.au/news/making-it-equal-victorias-women-manufacturing-strategy) and GMC’s BIG IDEAS program.
Feature photo: Elly Hanlon, joint CEO at Hanlon Industries, with Minister for Jobs and Industry, the Hon. Natalie Hutchins.