Mai-Wel Named Finalist in Five Categories at the 2026 Business Hunter Awards

Mai-Wel has been named a finalist in five categories at the 2026 Business Hunter Awards, selected from a pool of more than 300 applications from across the Hunter region. It is a significant recognition of the work being done across the organisation, and one the whole team can feel genuinely good about.

The five categories in which Mai-Wel has been recognised are:

Contribution to the Region
Outstanding Community Organisation
Employer of Choice (21 or more employees)
Outstanding Business Leader (21 or more employees) – John Cleary OAM
Outstanding Employee – Katrina Sharman

Congratulations to our CEO, John Cleary OAM and Senior Manager – NDIS Pathways, Katrina Sharman on their individual nominations. These recognitions are a reflection of the dedication and hard work of the entire Mai-Wel team.

About the Categories

The Contribution to the Region award recognises an organisation that has made a significant contribution to the ongoing prosperity and growth of the Hunter region outside its core business activity.

The Outstanding Community Organisation award recognises an organisation working to improve the social, cultural, or environmental wellbeing of the community.

The Employer of Choice award recognises a business that has implemented strategies and initiatives to create a stimulating and supportive workplace environment.

The individual nominations are equally meaningful. The Outstanding Business Leader award recognises an inspirational leader who has demonstrated a commitment to their workplace, industry, and community through leadership and mentorship.

The Outstanding Employee award recognises an inspirational employee who has demonstrated a passion for their role and a commitment to their workplace and the broader community.

Sponsoring Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion

As sponsors of the Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion Award, Mai-Wel also extends congratulations to the finalists in that category.

The Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion Award recognises businesses that champion inclusivity for diverse communities, including older people, people from culturally diverse backgrounds, and people with disability. It is a category close to the heart of everything Mai-Wel stands for.