The Annual PIA Gala Awards Dinner for 2012 was held on Saturday night, 20th October 2012 at the Adelaide Convention Centre.
Guests walked the red carpet and gathered in the foyer for pre-dinner drinks and networking prior to being seated in the formal function room.
The Master of Ceremonies for the event was Australian Comedian and personality Elliot Goblet (pictured left), who hosted the event whilst adding humorous references relating to the plumbing and construction industry.
Following a warm welcome from the MC and recognition of the event’s sponsors, the night kicked off with a welcome speech by the President of PIA – Mr Joe Nemeth.
Joe touched on PIA’s proactive approach to National Licensing, regulation and the overall protection of our industry. He also thanked SA Water and Employers Mutual for their contributions to the industry in their respective industries, as well as PIA Staff and the Executive Committee for their dedication.
The Award presentations began with the Apprentices.
Dillon Lock took home the Award for Plumbing Encouragement, whilst Addison Ellis was awarded the Most Outstanding Apprentice Award.
The PIA 2012 Hip Pocket Work Wear Awards for High Achievement went to Ben Van Tienen (1st /2nd Year) and Martin Ramm (3rd / 4th Year).
Finally for the Apprentice Awards was the announcement of the 2012 PIA Gold Medal and CITB Award for Training Excellence. There were 3 finalists in the running for this award who were Alex Barrett, Addison Ellis and Alex Pennino. The Award was won by Alex Barrett.
We congratulate all Apprentice Award winners and finalists for their outstanding work in the industry.
Prior to the PIA Awards, Robert Beard (SA Water) spoke on behalf of the PIA Awards judging panel. Robert explained that the number of entrants for this year’s awards has been less than in previous years. This is believed to be due to economic environment and also for the fact that many developments did not qualify as they are still in construction.
Robert thanked and congratulated all winners and all involved.
Hindmarsh Plumbing went home with 2 Awards – 2012 Safework Award and 2012 Commercial Plumbing & Gas Award – Over $1 million.
Another plumbing company to leave with multiple awards was Adelaide 5 Star Plumbing. They won awards for The 2012 Residential Plumbing & Gas Award Under $50,000 and The 2012 Maintenance Plumber Award.
Other Award winners included Commercial Plumbing SA – 2012 Residential Plumbing & Gas Award over $50,000, and Jordan Plumbing – 2012 Commercial Plumbing & Gas Award under $1 million.
Certificates for 25 years Milestone were awarded to Aquaduct Plumbing, Frog Plumbing and Smith Brothers Plumbing. A 50 years Milestone certificate was presented to Bruce Harris Project Management and finally to AJ Paternoster for 100 years in Plumbing.
We thank and congratulate all winners and nominees for these awards on a fantastic achievement and for their contributions to the PIA and the Industry.
For the full list of Awards winners and photographs please click here.
Following the formalities, Jungle Jooce kicked off the rest of the evening with their performances of pop hits ranging from the 70’s to the 90’s. Many guests danced whilst the others made their way around the room to network and catch up with other members of the industry.
We trust that a fantastic evening was had by all guests and we thank all attendees, sponsors, presenters and award nominees/winners for their continued support of this evening.