We’re proud to share that Hedweld founder Ian Hedley has been inducted into the Hunter Manufacturing Awards Hall of Fame, recognising more than 45 years of innovation and contribution to Australian manufacturing.
The induction celebrates Ian’s contribution to safer mining maintenance and the opportunities Hedweld has created for regional workers, tradespeople and engineers.
Ian was formally inducted at the 2026 Hunter Manufacturing Awards Gala Night on Friday 30 October at NEX Newcastle, before more than 400 industry peers, colleagues, family and friends.
Ian established Hedweld Engineering in 1980 as a sole trader in regional New South Wales. Today, the Hedweld Group of Companies exports specialised products to 38 countries, with our Trilift® maintenance support equipment and Safe-Away® access systems used by major mining operations around the world.
Along the way, Hedweld has employed hundreds of people and helped strengthen Australia’s sovereign manufacturing capability. Apprenticeships, training and skills development remain central to our business, creating pathways for future generations of tradespeople and engineers.
We remain a family business, led by Ian’s daughter and Managing Director, Kristy Hedley. Ian continues to contribute through mentoring, innovation and product development.
Reflecting on the honour, Ian acknowledged the team behind Hedweld’s innovations:
“This is truly an unexpected honour. Hedweld has always had an innovative culture, and it is not just me as an innovator, we have an innovative team that always considers safety first and then secondly, finding a better way to do things. It is humbling to know that our products have positively impacted the manufacturing and mining industries, and I would like to thank the HMA board for this recognition”
Hunter Manufacturing Awards Chair Chris Kelleher also acknowledged the impact of Ian’s work:
“Ian has combined practical ingenuity with a determination to make mining safer, creating solutions that have transformed maintenance practices across the industry,” Mr Kelleher said.
“His innovations have earned international recognition, but what makes his contribution truly remarkable is the lasting impact he has had on the people and industries he has served. Through his leadership, he has created skilled jobs, supported regional communities and helped establish one of Australia’s leading manufacturing and engineering communities.”
Kristy Hedley said the Hall of Fame recognition reflected the values that have guided her father’s career and shaped the company’s success.
“To our family, and to everyone who has been part of Hedweld’s journey, this recognition is incredibly special,” Ms Hedley said.
“Ian has never been motivated by awards or recognition, he has always been driven by finding better ways to solve problems, improve safety and create opportunities for others. That’s what has guided every decision he’s made throughout the business.”
“This recognition reflects not only his achievements, but also the dedication of the many employees, customers and industry partners who have been part of that journey.”
Established in 2024, the Hunter Manufacturing Awards Hall of Fame honours sustained contributions to manufacturing across the Hunter, Central Coast, New England and Mid North Coast. The HMA Board selects inductees for their long-term impact on industry, leadership, innovation and community contribution.
Ian joins inaugural inductee Joss De Iuliis (2024) and Varley Group (2025) in the Hall of Fame.