As the 32nd Asia-Pacific Venue Industry Congress draws near, we’re proud to announce the finalists for the 2025 Venue Industry Awards—our industry’s highest recognition of excellence, innovation, and impact.
These three prestigious awards honour the individuals whose leadership, service, and passion help shape the success of our venues, our people, and our communities. Whether leading teams through complex operational challenges, delivering outstanding allied support, or emerging as the next generation of venue leaders, our finalists represent the very best of our industry.
Venue Professional of the Year
Proudly sponsored by Ross Video APAC
This award recognises an outstanding public venue management professional for their significant contribution to the sector.
The 2025 finalists are:
- Josh Eltringham – General Manager – Venue & Event Services, MCG
- Anthony Karpanos – Chief Safety & Risk Officer, VenuesWest
-
Houri Tapiki – General Manager, Theatre Royal Sydney
These professionals have demonstrated remarkable leadership, vision, and dedication across all areas of venue operations and development.
Allied Professional of the Year
Proudly sponsored by PBM Safety
This award recognises an allied professional whose work has had a meaningful impact on the venue management industry.
The 2025 finalists are:
- Tim Duncan – Major Venue and Events Partner, St John Ambulance Victoria
-
Tim Long – Managing Director, Hawkridge Entertainment Services
- Scott Taylor – Director, Praesidium Risk and Resilience
These individuals exemplify the critical role that allied partners play in supporting safe, innovative, and successful venue operations.
Young Achiever of the Year
Proudly sponsored by Momentus Technologies
This award celebrates rising stars under the age of 30 who are already making their mark on the industry.
The 2025 finalists are:
- Chelsea Bryans – Capability & Inclusion Lead, Melbourne Park
- Ethan Croft – Partnerships Executive, RAC Arena
-
Emily Jones – Marketing Manager, VenuesWest
Each of these emerging leaders is driving fresh ideas, inspiring change, and helping to build a stronger, more dynamic future for our industry.
We extend our sincere thanks to our generous award sponsors—Ross Video APAC, PBM Safety, and Momentus Technologies—for their ongoing support and for helping to shine a spotlight on the incredible talent across our industry.
Join us as we celebrate all finalists and reveal the winners at the 2025 Gala Dinner & Awards, part of this year’s Asia-Pacific Venue Industry Congress. We look forward to applauding the achievements of our peers and recognising those who continue to elevate the venue management profession.
