Champions of Safety 2026
Victoria Awards.
Inspiring the Next Generation.
Support a Champion.
Workplace Health & Safety Show, Champions of Safety Awards recognise outstanding individuals who are driving real impact across Australia’s safety landscape – from frontline innovators to strategic leaders.
2026 Shortlists
Rising Star Award
WINNER! Aaron Nauta
First Aid Trainer / AB First Aid Training
Andrew Richardson
HSEQ Manager / LBA Construction Group
Anthony Karpanos
Founding Director / Soteria 360
Bradley Drennan
Occupational Health and Safety Officer / Alpine Shire Council
Mary Vetere
Principal Consultant / Konekt
Sally Pardoe
HSW Coordinator / OHS co-ordinator / South Gippsland Water / SGW
Pioneer Award
WINNER! Daniel Nicholls
Head of Work Health & Safety / Quayclean Australia Pty Ltd.
Chanelle McEnallay
Group Chief Safety Officer / Ramsay Healthcare
Karyn Welsh
National Chair / Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in Australia
Jade Mitchell
Founder - GM Operations / Bernie (Pharma Apothecary Pty Ltd)
Leigh Cole
General Manager / Crane Aid
Dr Natalie Flatt PH.D
Co-founder and CEO / Connect Psych Services
Icon Award
WINNER! Siusan MacKenzie
CEO / Emergency Services Foundation
James Wood
Director / CNB Safe
Jeremy Clay
EHS Manager / Cushman and Wakefield
Keith Govias
Workplace Safety and Risk Principal / EML Group
Pamela Atkinson
WHS Consultant / Aon
Wayne Colbourne
Managing Director / Angel Worksafe Consultants
2026 Awards Gallery
Award Categories
Rising Star
A Rising Star is an emerging talent showing exceptional promise and dedication, poised to make significant contributions and shape the future of their field.
Pioneer
A Pioneer is a trailblazer who leads the way in exploring new frontiers, introducing innovative methodologies, and driving progress in their field, embodying courage, vision, and determination.
Icon
An Icon is an individual who has achieved iconic status through their lasting influence, excellence, and significant contributions in their industry, serving as an inspiration for generations.