Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE) proudly hosted the 2025 Surat Basin Energy Awards in Dalby showcasing the region’s energy sector.
TSBE Executive Director Dr John McVeigh said the night recognised the outstanding leaders and businesses driving positive change in the energy sector.
“With thriving industries in natural gas, solar, wind, ethanol, batteries, hydrogen, pumped hydro and coal, our region is proving it is becoming Australia’s ‘energy capital’,” Dr McVeigh said.
“The awards night was an opportunity to celebrate the incredible success stories within our energy sector, highlighting those who have paved the way and those who continue to innovate and shape the industry.
“It’s a testament to the vital role energy plays in our region’s economic growth.
“We congratulate all of our nominees and award winners.”
2025 Surat Basin Energy Award winners include:
Innovation Award winner – Australian Well Control Centre
Local Content and Community Award winner – Shell QGC
Safety Award winner – Savanna Energy
Co-existence Award winner – Origin Energy
Sustainability Award winner – Biodiversity Australia
Apprenticeship and Training Award winner – Actemium Australia
Indigenous Commitment Award winner – Biodiversity Australia
Industry Legacy and Leadership Award winner – Stewart Morland
Thank you to Western Downs Regional Council for partnering with TSBE on this event.
More about the award winners:
Innovation Award winner – Australian Well Control Centre
Australian Well Control Centre’s (AWCC) Turbo 2 Program has revolutionised workforce training in Queensland’s oil and gas industry by introducing a nationally accredited qualification and Australia’s only undercover rig site training facility, producing work-ready personnel and reducing onboarding times. Through innovation, industry collaboration and a commitment to excellence, AWCC has created a sustainable solution to address workforce shortages and enhance safety and operational efficiency.
Local Content and Community Award winner – Shell QGC
Shell QGC’s integrated Local Content and Social Investment Strategies (2023–2025) are driving long-term economic, social, and educational benefits across the Surat Basin through 11 targeted programs focused on regional development, future jobs, and First Nations support. These efforts are complemented by a robust local content strategy that strengthens regional capacity, boosts local employment and enhances community resilience.
Safety Award winner – Savanna Energy
Savanna Energy has cultivated a proactive safety culture through its ‘Savanna Way’ framework, embedding five core values – Safety, People, Excellence, Mentoring and Culture, into daily operations to ensure employee well-being and continuous improvement. This holistic approach fosters shared accountability, strong communication and a resilient workforce committed to safety excellence.
Co-existence Award winner – Origin Energy
Origin Energy’s partnership with Qantas has transformed a private charter into a public air service between Miles and Brisbane, restoring a vital transport link for the Western Downs region. This initiative has enhanced regional connectivity, supported local communities and demonstrated how industry collaboration can deliver lasting benefits beyond operational needs.
Sustainability Award winner – Biodiversity Australia
Biodiversity Australia (BA) is leading sustainable development across Australia through science-based strategies, cultural integrity and community-driven approaches. With innovative programs like its Natural Capital Division and GIS mapping technology, BA delivers measurable ecological outcomes while expanding its regional footprint and empowering local communities in the energy and infrastructure sectors.
Apprenticeship and Training Award winner – Actemium Australia
Actemium Australia’s ‘train to retain’ philosophy drives its inclusive and structured apprentice and trainee program, focusing on long-term workforce development through early engagement, hands-on experience, and ongoing mentoring. By partnering with schools and industry bodies, Actemium builds a skilled, diverse and future-ready workforce aligned with its values and operational needs.
Indigenous Commitment Award winner – Biodiversity Australia
Biodiversity Australia (BA), a 100 per cent Indigenous-owned consultancy, is nationally recognised for embedding Indigenous leadership and participation into environmental service delivery, particularly across the Surat Basin. Through its award-winning Indigenous Pathways Model, BA has created lasting employment, training and community impact – achieving over 50 per cent Indigenous workforce participation and delivering more than 46,000 hours of local Indigenous employment.
Industry Legacy and Leadership Award winner – Stewart Morland
Stewart’s lifelong dedication to Australia’s energy sector has shaped IOR into a nationally respected fuel supply company, pioneering remote refueling and championing regional fuel security. His legacy is defined by innovation, community impact and a deep commitment to regional Australia, with lasting contributions to both industry and philanthropy.
