Queensland’s top exporters chase gold at Export Awards

The 46 Queensland businesses, stretching from Cairns to the Gold Coast, represent the best of the best across a range of fields including advanced manufacturing, e-commerce and international health. Now in their 34^th year, the Export Awards recognise Queensland businesses for their innovation, resilience, and determination, as they strive to grow and expand their global footprint.

Last year, Queensland was the first state in Australia to introduce a First Nations category and continues to recognise Women in International Business in a dedicated category. Finalists this year range from a fifth-generation developer of advanced cropping procedures from the Western Downs, to a leader in the marine contracting and commercial diving industry from Townsville.

There is also an artist-owned-and-run visual effects leader from Fortitude Valley working with Netflix and other global production houses and the creator of Australia’s first stroller wagon with built-in cooler from the Gold Coast.  The Premier of Queensland’s Export Awards 2024 winners will be announced at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre on Wednesday, 4 September.

Winners in each national category will represent Queensland at the Australian Export Awards in Canberra in November. Premier Steven Miles said Queensland had a global reputation for being the home of the best and brightest minds and businesses.

_{“These annual awards recognise the strength, range and diversity of Queensland exporters and the impact they have on our state’s economy,” he said. “From our food and agriculture, mining and resources, advanced technology, creative industries, advanced manufacturing to education and training, the sunshine state is shining bright around the world. “Congratulations and good luck to all these great homegrown finalists.”}

Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick said Queensland’s export industry was thriving.

_{“Our exporters’ dedication and success are reflected in the worldwide popularity and growing demand for Queensland products and services,” he said. “Queensland businesses have always overachieved on the world stage, for example QANTAS, BP’s origins at Mount Morgan or Bundaberg Brewed Drinks, and the Export Awards 2024 finalists are no different.”}

Trade and Investment Queensland CEO Justin McGowan said the global business agency took great pride in supporting the export journeys of Queensland businesses.

_{“TIQ takes great delight when we’re described as a company’s best asset or that they consider us as part of their team as they progress to international success,” he said.    “We are grateful to play a role in their incredible accomplishments - true examples of Queensland’s ability to impact entire industries right around the world.”}

Mr McGowan said TIQ had the best year in its ten-year history in 2023-24, facilitating export deals for Queensland companies valued at more than $907 million.

_{“TIQ recently launched Your Passport to Export Success, a campaign targeting Queensland businesses encouraging more to connect with us,” he said. “It’s important that the message reaches all businesses in the state, no matter what their size to enable us to support them on their own global journey. “All Queensland businesses can see themselves reflected in this year’s Export Awards finalists who serve as true inspirations to other emerging exporters of what can be achieved. “The future of our state’s export industry is in very good hands.”}

Join us at the annual Awards Dinner at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre on Wednesday, 4 September, to recognise and celebrate the success of our Queensland exporters. 

The full list of finalists, chosen from nominee companies, is below: