Casterton Kelpie Association win three categories across the night.
“The 2026 Australian Event Awards have been a wonderful reminder of the passion, creativity and dedication that drive our industry forward. From internationally recognised productions to regional events that bring entire communities together, this year’s winners demonstrate the extraordinary breadth of talent across Australia,” said Ian Steigrad, Managing Director, Australian Event Awards and Symposium.
“It was particularly rewarding to see the enthusiasm surrounding the Casterton Kelpies, a fantastic example of the impact and importance of regional events. As we celebrate our 18th year, I continue to be inspired by the people behind these achievements. My sincere thanks go to our judges, partners, entrants and the Coffs Harbour community for helping make this year’s celebration such a success.”
The Australian events industry came together at Pacific Bay Resort in Coffs Harbour on Wednesday 21 October for the 18th Australian Event Awards, celebrating the creativity, dedication and extraordinary achievements of the people and organisations behind Australia’s best events.
Hosted by the wonderful Olympia Kwitowski, the evening was filled with outstanding entertainment, well-deserved recognition and plenty of memorable moments as industry professionals from across the country gathered to celebrate another remarkable year.
From major international productions to much-loved regional celebrations, the night showcased the incredible diversity, innovation and talent that make Australia’s events industry so special.
The Casterton Kelpies Steal the Show
Among the night’s biggest crowd favourites was the Casterton Kelpie Association, whose 30th Australian Kelpie Muster and Australia’s Premier Working Dog Auction proved that extraordinary events come in all shapes and sizes.
The team took home Best Community Event and Best Association Event, before receiving the night’s highest honour, Australian Event of the Year.
Their success was met with enthusiastic applause, making the Casterton Kelpies one of the most memorable stories of the evening and a wonderful celebration of the passion and community spirit behind regional Australian events.
Other major honours included Event Agency of the Year, awarded to MCI Australia, and Event Supplier of the Year, awarded to Aggreko.
Across the ceremony, outstanding achievements were recognised in event production, technical innovation, creative design, event management and more, reflecting the breadth of talent and expertise within the industry.
Honouring a Lifetime of Achievement
One of the evening’s most significant moments was the presentation of the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award to Michael Hassett.
The special recognition celebrated Michael’s longstanding contribution to the Australian events industry, acknowledging a career dedicated to supporting and advancing the sector.
It was a fitting moment to recognise an individual whose work has helped shape the industry and the people within it.
An Evening of Outstanding Entertainment
The Coffs Coast’s musical talent was on full display throughout the evening, with an impressive line-up of performers bringing energy, atmosphere and personality to the celebrations.
Hannah Luke delivered the opening performance, while Miss Renee Simone set the mood ahead of dinner with her distinctive blend of live music and soulful vocals.
Local emerging artist Lily Hallawell entertained guests ahead of dessert, before Sarah McKenna rounded out the evening with a beautiful closing performance.
With Olympia Kwitowski guiding the celebrations as Master of Ceremonies, the entertainment provided a wonderful backdrop to a night dedicated to the people who bring events to life.
Thank You, Coffs Harbour
For the second consecutive year, the Australian Event Awards were proudly hosted on the Coffs Coast, with the support of the City of Coffs Harbour.
The Australian Event Awards team extends its sincere thanks to the City of Coffs Harbour, our event partners, production partners, judges, entrants and everyone who helped bring the 2026 celebration to life.
Most importantly, congratulations to all our winners and nominees. Your creativity, resilience and commitment continue to demonstrate why Australia’s events industry is one worth celebrating.