Beyond the awards themselves, the evening reflected the unique spirit of the O’Brien and Laser Network. Each time a winner was announced, the collective pride in the room was unmistakable — a testament to the camaraderie and support that underpin our success.

This shared celebration reinforced that our greatest strength lies not only in individual achievement, but in the way we come together as a community.

While not every nominee took home a trophy, each has achieved remarkable success in their own right and set an inspiring example for others. The Gala Awards provided an opportunity to acknowledge these efforts and to shine a spotlight on the exceptional talent, commitment, and collaboration that define our Members and Suppliers.

Business of the Year
Winner Electrical: O'Brien Electrical Granville
Winner Plumbing: O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Lismore

Outstanding Growth
Winner Electrical: O'Brien Electrical Gumdale
Winner Plumbing: O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Lismore
Finalists Electrical: Floyd Industries, JSP Electrical, O'Brien Electrical Gumdale, O'Brien Electrical Loganholme, O'Brien Electrical North Geelong
Finalists Plumbing: Immerse Plumbing & Gas Services, O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Lismore, O'Brien Plumbing & Relining Coffs Harbour, O'Brien Plumbing Gumdale, O'Brien Plumbing Mackay

Sales & Marketing Excellence
Winner: O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Lismore
Finalists: Laser Plumbing Newcastle Central, O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Bendigo, O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Lismore, O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Rowville, O'Brien Electrical & Solar Underwood, O'Brien Plumbing Echuca-Moama, O'Brien Plumbing Wyong 

Customer Service Excellence
Winner Electrical: O'Brien Electrical & Solar Townsville Central
Winner Plumbing: O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains
Finalists Electrical: O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Bendigo, O'Brien Electrical & Solar Townsville Central, O'Brien Electrical Armidale, O'Brien Electrical Camberwell, O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Warrnambool
Finalists Plumbing: Laser Plumbing Newcastle Central, O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains, O'Brien Plumbing Echuca-Moama, O'Brien Plumbing Mackay

Apprentice of the Year
Winner Electrical: Noah Panczyk – Laser Electrical & Communications Penrith
Winner Plumbing: Riley Thompson – Laser Plumbing Newcastle Central
Finalists Electrical: Harrison Pearce – O'Brien Electrical Greensborough, Jack Cockbain- O'Brien Electrical and Plumbing Grafton, Mono Mok – O'Brien Electrical & Solar Underwood, Noah Panczyk – Laser Electrical & Communications Penrith
Finalists Plumbing: Charlotte Keena – O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains, Hamish Day – O'Brien Plumbing & Relining Coffs Harbour, Riley Thompson – Laser Plumbing Newcastle Central, Tom Gleeson – O'Brien Plumbing Goondiwindi

Safety & Wellbeing Award
Winner: O'Brien Electrical & Engineering Ballarat
Finalists: O’Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains, O'Brien Electrical & Engineering Ballarat, O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Lismore, O'Brien Electrical Granville, O'Brien Electrical Mount Barker, O'Brien Plumbing Sydney Central 

Networking Excellence
Winner: O'Brien Electrical Granville
Finalists: Laser Plumbing Newcastle Central, O’Brien Electrical & Plumbing Bendigo, O’Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains, O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Lismore, O'Brien Electrical Granville, O'Brien Plumbing Echuca Moama 

The Women of O'Brien Award
Winner: Bonnie Rothall – O'Brien Electrical Mount Gambier
Finalists: Bonnie Rothall – O'Brien Electrical Mount Gambier, Jacqui Sherriff – O'Brien Electrical Granville, Jodie Cranham – O'Brien Electrical North Geelong, Rachel Hodge – O’Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains

Support Team Member of the Year Award
Winner: Suphansa Beattie – GF James Plumbing
Finalists: Daniel Redfern – O'Brien Plumbing Croydon, Leanne Fry – O'Brien Plumbing Mackay, Lochlan Martin – Gosling Electrical Coffs Harbour, Sally Brennan – Laser Electrical Swan Hill, Scott Pearce – O'Brien Electrical Greensborough, Suphansa Beattie – GF James Plumbing

Technician of the Year Award
Winner Electrical: Graham Gore – Laser Electrical Goondiwindi
Winner Plumbing: Sarah Condie – O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Lismore
Finalists Electrical: Daniel Wilson – Cobram Electrical & Data, Graham Gore – Laser Electrical Goondiwindi, James Kennedy-Saunders – O'Brien Electrical Camberwell, Kaleb Pserekis – O’Brien Electrical & Airconditioning Hervey Bay, Peter Feltham – Laser Electrical & Communications Penrith, Zacc Cocks – O'Brien Electrical Mount Gambier
Finalists Plumbing: Chris Colvin – O’Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains, Marc Mattiazzo – O'Brien Plumbing Croydon, Sarah Condie – O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Lismore

Giving Back Award
Winner: O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Lismore
Finalists: Immerse Plumbing & Gas, Laser Plumbing & Electrical Horsham, Laser Plumbing Newcastle Central, O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains, O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Lismore, O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Rowville 

Champions of Change Award
Winner Electrical: O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Warrnambool
Winner Plumbing: Laser Plumbing Newcastle Central
Finalists Electrical: Laser Electrical & Communications Penrith, Laser Electrical Horsham, O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Warrnambool, O'Brien Electrical Maroochydore
Finalists Plumbing: Laser Plumbing Newcastle Central, O’Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains, O'Brien Plumbing Goondiwindi

Wholesaler of the Year Award
Winner: Reece Group

Manufacturer of Choice of the Year Award
Winner: Robus LED

Support Office Team Member of the Year Award
Winner: Ashley Clemmett

20 Year Network Anniversary
O'Brien Electrical Bendigo
O'Brien Electrical & Engineering Contractors Ballarat
O'Brien Electrical Carrum Downs
O'Brien Electrical Loganholme

15 Year Network Anniversary
Laser Plumbing Albury-Wodonga
O'Brien Electrical Castle Hill
O'Brien Plumbing Bundaberg
O'Brien Electrical Adelaide North

10 Year Network Anniversary
Laser Plumbing Bathurst
O'Brien Electrical Granville

Congratulations to all the Winners and Finalists, we hope you enjoyed your Advantage Conference 2025. We look forward to seeing you again next year!

The post The Advantage Conference 2025 Award Winners appeared first on O'Brien.

Han & Can take out the win!

This week’s winners were Han and Can, who scored an impressive 29 points with their daring, statement-making design. Their main ensuite featured a show-stopping amber resin bath with matching twin basins, paired with soft tones and clever panelling. The judges were blown away, praising the room as bold, theatrical and beautifully balanced.

Stunning designs across all homes!

While Han and Can took the crown, every team delivered standout bathrooms:

• Emma & Ben impressed with a bold maroon-hued palette and curved wall feature, earning praise as “ones to watch.”
• Mat & Robby wowed with thousands of travertine tiles, creating a luxe, high-end feel.
• Sonny & Alicia went minimalist with a concrete bath and clever new layout, again proving themselves as budget-savvy strategists.
• Britt & Taz delivered a spa-inspired wet room, overcoming design challenges to create a calming retreat.

Each ensuite brought a unique personality to the competition, showcasing creativity, craftsmanship and innovation.

Adding warmth behind the scenes

Bathrooms are among the most technically demanding spaces to build on The Block. That’s why our O’Brien Electrical & Plumbing team was on site to ensure every ensuite wasn’t just beautiful, but functional and comfortable too. The installation of Hotwire underfloor heating across all bathrooms means each space now combines striking design with everyday luxury.

Congratulations to Han & Can on their well-deserved win, and to all the contestants for delivering such impressive, stylish ensuites. We look forward to seeing what they create next as the competition heats up!

Learn more about Hotwire underfloor heating – yep, you can have it in your home too! Catch up on last week’s main bathroom reveals here.

The post The Block 2025: Main Ensuite Reveals Heat Up With Hotwire Comfort! appeared first on O'Brien.

Here’s a look at each bathroom from the final reveal.

House 5’s Robby and Mat took out the Week 1 win with a score of 26.5/30!

All bathrooms on The Block were fitted with Hotwire underfloor heating, expertly installed by the O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing team.

The post The Block: Week 1 Bathroom Reveals! appeared first on O'Brien.

We’ve teamed up with Hotwire Heating to bring energy-efficient underfloor heating to multiple homes featured on the show – and we couldn’t be more excited to be part of Australia’s favourite renovation series!

From bathrooms to sleek kitchen floors, we’ve been behind the scenes installing the latest in heating technology that’s all about comfort, style and smart living.

What are we installing

We’re fitting Hotwire Heating under-tile and in-screed heating systems, a game-changing solution for those chilly mornings. These systems are:

· Quick to heat – in just 30–60 minutes

· Energy-efficient – using low wattage and smart thermostats

· Smart-home compatible – with touch-screen and Wi-Fi enabled thermostats

· Safe and sleek – installed completely under the surface, with built-in safety features

As accredited Hotwire installers, our team ensures every installation meets the highest standards so all you feel is warm, even heat.

Our Role on The Block

From planning through to install, O'Brien Electrical Bendigo worked closely with contestants to deliver tailor-made comfort in several of this year’s stunning homes.

· Floor heating (think bathrooms, kitchens and living zones)

· Custom solutions matched to each room’s layout and finishes

· Smart thermostat integration for personalised, zone-by-zone temperature control

· On-screen action! You might even spot the Bendigo team during the show!

Five benefits of Hotwire products you’ll love!

1. Even heat, everywhere
Unlike traditional heaters that blast hot air in one spot, floor heating gently radiates warmth from the ground up, evenly across the room, for a perfectly balanced climate.

2. Energy efficiency that makes sense
Because the heat rises slowly and steadily, you can set it at a lower temperature and still feel toasty – especially when paired with a Wi-Fi smart thermostat.

3. Comfort that feels luxe
There’s nothing quite like stepping out of bed or the shower onto a warm floor. It’s comfort without the clutter, no bulky radiators, vents or cold spots.

4. Healthier air, healthier homes
Floor heating doesn’t circulate dust or allergens, making it ideal for allergy sufferers or anyone with asthma. No ducts = no nasties.

5. Designed for real life
Whether it’s your bathroom, ensuite, living room or kitchen underfloor heating is a sleek solution that fits right in. Add a heated towel rail and you might never leave your bathroom. (Fair warning!)

Ready to heat things up?

Explore underfloor heating for your home or next project by getting in touch with your local O’Brien electrician or plumber to complete your Hotwire Floor Heating Installation today.

We’re proud to deliver quality, innovation and comfort – just like you’ll see on The Block.

Tune into The Block on Channel 9 to see our team in action!

The post We’re on The Block! O’Brien Electrical & Plumbing brings the heat with Hotwire appeared first on O'Brien.

What began in 1990 as a modest one-man plumbing business has grown into a dynamic, award-winning operation employing over 35 staff and serving Queensland’s southeast with professionalism and pride.

Humble Beginnings with a Ford Galaxie and a Vision

The journey began when Peter traded a Ford Galaxie car for plumbing work — inspiring the original business name, Galaxy Plumbing. With an ex-Telstra van and a strong work ethic, Peter, joined by lifelong mates and his wife Madonna, tackled local maintenance jobs, blocked drains, and even home renovations during quiet spells. As Madonna recalls, “I’d come home from work to find the laundry gone… his explanation? ‘We weren’t busy today.’”

These early chapters reflect the DIY spirit and bold determination that would shape the business for decades to come.

Building a Family and a Business

From their Holland Park home, Peter and Madonna raised their three children — Rachel, Sam, and Nicole — while growing the business and training apprentices like Michael Spragg, who would go on to run his own successful O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing business in Gumdale. 

As demand increased, they expanded from domestic maintenance to new home builds for names like Australand and Coral Homes. In 2000, they began taking on commercial work, starting with St Augustine’s School in Springfield. They are now experts in responsive maintenance in both plumbing and electrical.

Each time they moved family homes, which also acted as the business HQ — from Holland Park to Mansfield to Rochedale — reflected not just growth, but a commitment to keeping family, business, and values at the heart of their success.

The final move was to separate home and business: the business moved to rented offices at Salisbury and then to the current Coopers Plains location which Peter and Madonna purchased and renovated to suit the business requirements. The family moved back to Holland Park up the road from where it all began!

Innovation and Evolution Through the O’Brien Network

Joining the O’Brien and Laser Network in 2016 was a pivotal decision that introduced streamlined systems and software upgrades, business reviews, and — perhaps most importantly — a rich network of peers across the country.

Over the last nine years, Madonna and Peter have built deep friendships within the Network — reconnecting with old colleagues and forging new bonds with members from Sydney, Newcastle, and beyond. The camaraderie and knowledge-sharing that comes with being part of the O’Brien and Laser Network has not only strengthened their operations but reinforced their belief in continuous learning and improvement.

Their efforts culminated in a proud achievement in 2024 — being named O’Brien Business of the Year.

Together, Peter and Madonna have trained 66 apprentices, employed over 400 people, and created a legacy that spans generations. They have always kept their people at the core, whether they are team, family or friends.

Supporting Mental Health Through TIACS

One of the most meaningful aspects of O’Brien Electrical and Plumbing Coopers Plains’ story is their passionate support for TIACS (This Is A Conversation Starter) — a not-for-profit mental health support service tailored to tradespeople.  TAICS is partly funded by TradeMutt.

TIACS offers free professional counselling for those in blue-collar industries. In the past two years, the Coopers Plains team raised $8,000 for TIACS, adding to their fundraising and awareness efforts through raffles and supplier-supported events. An amazing effort.

Their advocacy ensures that mental health remains a priority in an industry that often doesn’t talk about it enough — and their support reflects the business’s core value: people matter most.

Looking Ahead

Reflecting on the last 35 years, Madonna said it best: “We need to be proud of what we have achieved.” From training future leaders, growing a vibrant business, and staying true to their roots, O’Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains continues to embody everything the Network values — family spirit, professionalism, and heart.

Congratulations to Peter, Madonna, and the entire Coopers Plains team. We’re honoured to celebrate this incredible milestone with you.

The post Celebrating 35 Years of Excellence at O’Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains appeared first on O'Brien.

Take a moment to meet our newest Members and learn more about the strengths they bring to the Network, as well as their reasons for joining.

O’Brien Electrical & Solar North Lakes

• Director: Michael Brook, who leads a team of three dedicated office staff and eight technicians.
• Specialisation and Services: The team has completed over 2,000 successful solar panel installations and over a decade of experience in energy solutions, catering to a wide range of commercial and residential solar needs. 
• Location: Brisbane and beyond, including the Gold Coast, Toowoomba, and the Sunshine Coast.

We are excited to support director Michael Brook and his dedicated team, formerly known as Brooksies Energy Solutions, as they embark on this new chapter. Michael’s decision to join the O'Brien Network speaks volumes about our shared values and commitment to high quality work. Michael says:

“The business growth opportunities and joining a supportive Network are what drew me to O’Brien Electrical & Plumbing. So far, I appreciate the forwardness and the reciprocal relationship the Network structure offers.”

O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Grafton

• Director: Jake Campbell, leading a team of two office staff and four technicians.
• Specialisation and services: Solar PV and solar hot water, with experience in both commercial and residential solar projects. 
• Location: Grafton, Yamba, Maclean, and Nymbodia, and all the way to Coffs Harbour and Lismore.

This expansion marks another significant milestone for Jake Campbell, who has been a valued member of our Network for over 18 years and operates across three business locations. Formerly known as Grafton Electrical, this experienced team has been serving the Clarence Valley since 1980.

As part of the O'Brien Network, O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Grafton will benefit from the support and resources of our wider Network, including access to over 90 employees across Coffs Harbour, Lismore, and Grafton.

By joining the O'Brien Network, O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Grafton aim to expand their resources and subsequently their location coverage, through the support of 90+ employees from Coffs Harbour, Lismore, and Grafton.

Cobram Electrical & Data

• Directors: Nic Sims, aka ‘Simmy’, who leads a team of 40 technicians and five office staff.
• Specialisation and Services: Industrial, residential, commercial, and data sectors. They hold ASP1 and ASP2 accreditations for Essential Energy in NSW, focusing on high-voltage installations and construction. They also excel in renewable energy solutions, tackling projects from small- to large-scale with expertise in grid-connected and off-grid systems.
• Location: Cobram, Victoria and the Goulburn Valley region
  

Nic looks forward to building relationships with other Network members to reach his goal of continuing to grow the business and innovate in the industry. He said:

“Joining O’Brien was a significant decision for us, as our business has reached a level where collaborating and working with other like-minded businesses in the same space is very powerful. We joined to collaborate, learn, and share practices that have helped us to grow a diverse business.”

Floyd Industries

Owner: Cameron Gilles, who leads a team of over 19 people. 

Specialisation and Services: Commercial projects, including large schools, hospitals, government, and manufacturing facilities. Specialties include switchboard design, manufacturing, and installation, as well as HVAC and refrigeration installation and servicing. 

Location: Wangaratta, Victoria 

With over 40 years of experience, Floyd Industries are looking forward to capitalising on opportunities for collaboration, learning, and growth with the Network. Cameron said:

“Joining O’Brien has real benefits for my business — well-developed systems across all the priority areas in our business, business development support with a depth of knowledge and experience supporting this, and the O’Brien Network with its ability to generate new contacts and benchmarking information.”

Wayne Castleman Plumbing

Director: Wayne Castleman, who leads a team of two office staff and four technicians.

Specialisation and Services: Commercial and industrial work, and they also service the local domestic market in service and maintenance plumbing. They also provide fire services, civil drainage, and hot water system installation. 

Location: Ballarat, Victoria 

The team are looking forward to collaborating with as many Members as they can, and plan on leveraging the Network’s experience and knowledge to advance their business operations. Their ultimate goal is to build their resources and improve operations. Wayne said:

“The business has been operating for over 26 years and we believe it is time to adapt to the latest in business systems. We plan on taking advantage of the business coaching and succession planning support offered by O’Brien Electrical and Plumbing.”

These five businesses are ready to go to the next level. By joining the O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Network, they will unlock a world of opportunities for growth, collaboration, and success. As part of our thriving community, they will gain access to invaluable resources, expert guidance, and a network of like-minded professionals who share their passion for the industry. 

The post Introducing Our Five Newest Network Members 2024 appeared first on O'Brien.

Paul is a trailblazer in the Network and has been a key player in the numerous charity fundraising and Taskforce giving-back initiatives over the years. 

As we celebrate Paul’s 20-year journey with us, we look back on how his commitment to excellence and the support system of the O’Brien and Laser Group contributed to the longevity of his business in Victoria.

Joining the O'Brien Network: A Transformational Step

Paul’s relationship with O’Brien began in 2004, when his Greensborough electrical business joined the O'Brien Network, which was then known as Laser Electrical and Plumbing. Paul’s business was the first to join when the Network launched in Australia.

Paul established his business in 1987 and had grown a successful operation. However, it was the decision to join O’Brien that marked the beginning of a new chapter filled with even greater possibilities. He quickly recognised that O’Brien was not just a network but a family of businesses committed to helping each other thrive. Paul said:

“It gives you someone to lean on, especially in the early days,”

Joining the Network brought advantages with it, like a bigger brand name. Paul said:

“My wife, Jenni, and I started the business together, and she handled the bookkeeping and invoicing. In 2004, I decided to change the name on the front door because I felt we needed a recognised brand, not just a personal name. That’s why we joined Laser — because it offered that reliable branding.”

Technological Improvements and Staying Ahead

One of the significant advantages of being part of the O’Brien Network has been access to cutting-edge technology.

Before joining the franchise, Paul’s business relied on manual processes for job tracking and invoicing. O’Brien helped Paul streamline these processes. The introduction of software like LaserPrO’ was a game-changer for the business, enabling Paul to scale up while maintaining efficiency. Paul said:

“There were big leaps in professionalism and software. In the early days, cash flow was a constant challenge, and I was always chasing payments. Back then, I used to carry a book listing all the jobs, trying to track everything manually. But with Laser and O’Brien, things have changed significantly. The right software made a huge difference — helping us track jobs, invoice faster, and manage everything more efficiently.

Today, the software allows us to easily expand as needed, whether it’s adding more mobile apps or email addresses. It’s seamless support that has helped our business grow.”

This focus on innovation has kept Paul’s business competitive in a fast-evolving industry. Being part of the O’Brien Network provided resources and tools that would have been difficult for a small, independent business to implement on its own.

Expansion and Embracing Change

From an already strong electrical division, Paul expanded into the plumbing market, an area led by his nephew. Today, Paul’s business operates with a team of around 30 employees across both divisions, allowing them to maintain a strong presence in the electrical and plumbing sectors.

The expansion into the Melbourne CBD market has not been without its challenges. Paul acknowledges that it is a competitive space with many players. However, with the opening of a new office in Collingwood, his business is well-positioned to tap into the potential of the vibrant Melbourne CBD.

The diverse service offering, along with a strong team, has enabled Paul’s company to take on larger projects and cater to a wider customer base.

Networking and Community: The O'Brien Advantage

One of the most rewarding aspects of Paul’s journey with O’Brien has been the power of its community. Being part of the O'Brien family has enabled Paul to leverage the strength of the network, allowing his business to expand its reach and tackle large-scale projects.

A key example of this is the company’s ability to service national clients like 7-Eleven and Starbucks, providing solutions across hundreds of stores in Australia. The trust and connection within the network make these large-scale projects possible. Paul said:

“We’ve been providing service to 7-Eleven and petrol stations for over 20 years, solving problems nationally thanks to the support of the O'Brien Group. They could give us a single issue, and we’d be able to fix it across 700 stores in Australia.

Our strength lies in reliability, prompt service, and effectively solving customer problems.”

The annual O’Brien conferences have also played a crucial role in Paul’s journey. Having attended more than 20 conferences, Paul views these events as an essential part of his professional development.

The blend of learning from industry experts and connecting with other Members creates an environment where both personal and business growth flourish. Paul said:

“The networking and friendships from the conferences are the most important part of the O'Brien Network. It gives you people you can talk to, learn from, and share experiences with. Everyone is like-minded and in a similar position, which makes those connections the best part of being in the Network.”

Paul also values the opportunity to bring his staff to these conferences, giving them a break from the usual work environment while investing in their professional growth.

A Story of Success in the Network

Paul Harty’s 20-year journey with O’Brien Electrical & Plumbing showcases the power of connection, community, and adaptability.

His business’s growth from a small family operation into a national provider of electrical and plumbing services is a testament to the value of partnership within the O’Brien Network. Paul said:

“To those looking for support in growing their business and managing the day-to-day, it’s a great group to be part of. The Network helps you step forward in your business much faster than you would on your own.

It offers honest support, from providing the right tools and resources to fixing issues quickly. It’s like having a professional team backing you, so you can stay ahead of the competition.”

Supported by a strong team and a commitment to innovation, Paul’s business continues to thrive, and his future remains bright as he looks ahead to new challenges and opportunities.

The post Celebrating 20 Years: Paul Harty’s Journey with O’Brien appeared first on O'Brien.

Taskforce

Touch down in Wellington New Zealand, and the Network hit the ground running with an incredible Taskforce Project. Taskforce is the Network’s annual Giving Back Project and it is in its 17th year running! This year’s Taskforce was held at Wellington’s Life Flight Westpac Helicopter Base. Over 100 suppliers, Members and friendly Volunteers put in some hard yakka to support this very worthy non-for profit organisation. Life Flight provides crucial emergency aeromedical services.

Head of Fundraising, Marketing and Communications at Life Flight Trust, Sebastian Grodd said “Our Air rescue base is the hub, where our urgent missions start and end. To get this help and expertise, to make it the best that it can be, means so much to our team. Thank you so much for taking the opportunity to make a difference!”

An incredibly important part of what makes this Network so successful are our valued suppliers. The trade expo was a standout feature, showcasing 45 Australian and New Zealand Suppliers. The suppliers demonstrated new products, held interactive presentations, and showed how they could support business needs, discover and learn how they can support their business needs. 

Keynote Speakers

The Advantage Conference program this year featured three incredible keynote speakers who delivered insights that will resonate long after the conference. Inspirational keynote speakers such as former professional boxer, Dave Letele (AKA Brown Buttabean) and Gilbert Enoka renowned for his work as a mental skills coach with New Zealand’s corporate and sporting elite. On day two of the conference we heard from Dr Michelle Dickonson – nanotechnologist and science educator. Michelle also appeared on stage at the Women’s event, presenting on her experiences in her career.

We also took time to celebrate significant milestones, honouring our trans-Tasman Members with 25, 20, 15 and 10 year anniversaries. 

Networking was at its peak with amazing offsite evening functions, where attendees enjoyed opportunities to connect and collaborate. The Network wound back the clock at the renaissance and medieval themed night! Members and Suppliers also made some wonderful memories at the offsite networking event held at the entertainment complex – Brewtown. Brewtown provided loads of fun activities with go-kart racing, putt putt golf and more. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this event a resounding success!

The post O’Brien Electrical & Plumbing and Laser Group joined forces for The Advantage Conference 2024! appeared first on O'Brien.

This year’s Advantage Conference was particularly special as it marked the first trans-Tasman conference since 2019, bringing together Members and Suppliers from both Australia and New Zealand for valuable networking and learning.

We congratulate all the finalists and winners. Discover the award categories and recipients below.

Business of the Year
The winners of the Business of the Year Award are an inspiration to their peers, have a sound knowledge and a well-practised approach to the use of systems and are great advocates for our network overall.
Winner Electrical: O'Brien Electrical Engineering & Contractors Ballarat
Winner Plumbing: O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains

Employee of the Year
This award category recognises and rewards high-performing individuals who make outstanding contributions to the success of their Member business.
Winner Mitchell Stokes – Laser Plumbing Newcastle Central
Finalists: Ben Castledine – O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Rowville, Jack Gregory – O'Brien Electrical Mount Gambier, Josh Petersen – O'Brien Plumbing Echuca-Moama, Trinity Bright – O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains and Matthew Snowball – Laser Electrical & Communications Penrith.

Outstanding Growth
The Outstanding Growth Awards category is judged on both the dollar amounts and percentage increases for Revenue and Gross Profit improvement of Members.
Winner Electrical: O'Brien Electrical Engineering & Contractors Ballarat
Winner Plumbing: O'Brien Plumbing & Relining Coffs Harbour
Finalists: Laser Electrical Horsham, O'Brien Electrical Adelaide North, O'Brien Electrical Engineering & Contractors Ballarat, O'Brien Electrical Mount Gambier, O'Brien Electrical Welshpool, O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Bendigo, O'Brien Plumbing Gumdale and O'Brien Plumbing Mackay.

Sales & Marketing Excellence
The Sales & Marketing Excellence Awards are given to Members who show a clear understanding of how marketing and advertising can impact their businesses.
Winner Electrical: O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Bendigo
Winner Plumbing: O'Brien Plumbing & Relining Coffs Harbour
Finalists: O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Rowville, O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains, O'Brien Electrical & Solar Underwood, O'Brien Electrical Winnellie, O'Brien Plumbing Wyong, O'Brien Plumbing Echuca-Moama and Laser Plumbing Newcastle Central.

Customer Service Excellence
The Customer Service Excellence Award is given to Members who are delivering a high standard of customer service.
Winner Electrical: O'Brien Electrical & Air Conditioning Warana
Winner Plumbing: O'Brien Plumbing Mackay
Finalists: O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Bendigo, O'Brien Electrical Armidale, O'Brien Electrical Camberwell, Laser Plumbing Newcastle Central,O'Brien Plumbing Echuca-Moama and O'Brien Plumbing Maroochydore.

Apprentice of the Year
The Apprentice of the Year award recognises the importance of the recruitment of the best people into our Member businesses.
Winner: Anthony Hutumo – O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains
Finalists: Blake Desira – Laser Electrical & Communications Penrith, James Hotham – O'Brien Electrical Fyshwick, Jaymus Troutman – O'Brien Plumbing & Relining Coffs Harbour and Lachlan Ford – O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains.

Safety & Wellbeing Award
The Safety & Wellbeing Awards category recognises Members who have an unwavering priority to meet the needs of their business, their team and their customers, with best practices.
Winner: O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains
Finalists: O'Brien Electrical Engineering & Contractors Ballarat, O'Brien Electrical Fyshwick and O'Brien Electrical Granville.

Networking Excellence
The finalists and winners of this award have truly adopted the spirit of the Member network. Our winners have been a great help to other Member businesses.
Winner Electrical: O'Brien Electrical Winnellie
Winner Plumbing: O'Brien Plumbing Sydney Central
Finalists: O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Bendigo, O'Brien Electrical Granville, O'Brien Electrical Mount Gambier, O'Brien Electrical Camberwell, O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Lismore, O'Brien Plumbing Wyong, O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains and O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains.

The Women of O'Brien Award
This award recognises women who strive for equality in the workplace and celebrates those who are making outstanding contributions in their local community, business or across the wider industry.
Winner: Nicole Knight, O'Brien Electrical Fyshwick
Finalists: Cecilia Catanghal – O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Rowville and Jacqui Sherriff – O'Brien Electrical Granville.

Giving Back Award
The Giving Back Awards category celebrates Members who are making a real difference in their local communities, as well as being actively engaged in national Group initiatives involved in giving back and charity work.
Winner: O'Brien Electrical Mount Gambier
Finalists: O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains, O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Rowville, O'Brien Plumbing & Relining Coffs Harbour and O'Brien Plumbing Echuca-Moama.

Champions of Change Award
The Champions of Change Award is given to Members who embrace the constant of change and have made major improvements in their businesses over the last year.
Winner: O'Brien Plumbing Echuca-Moama
Finalists: Laser Plumbing Newcastle Central, O'Brien Electrical & Plumbing Coopers Plains and O'Brien Electrical Thomastown.

Supplier of the Year
The Supplier of the Year Award is given to a Supplier who is delivering a high standard of customer service and support to the Member Network.
Winner: Rexel Australia

Congratulations to all the Winners and Finalists, we hope you enjoyed your Advantage Conference 2024. We look forward to seeing you again next year!

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