Puss & Mew Distillery: Champion Victorian Distiller, Australian Distilled Spirits Awards 2023

Puss & Mew Distillery: Champion Victorian Distiller, Australian Distilled Spirits Awards 2023

In a triumph of innovation, resilience and craft, we are elated to announce that Puss & Mew Distillery, a valued member of the Australian Owned family, has been crowned the Champion Victorian Distiller of the Year at the Australian Distilled Spirits Awards 2023. This remarkable achievement is a testament to their excellence in the art of distillation.

Puss & Mew Distillery, named after the legendary British gin-seller Captain Dudley Bradstreet, achieved not only the coveted title but also an impressive array of medals, including 2 gold, 5 silver and 1 bronze. This accolade comes after overcoming significant hurdles, including health battles and the challenges posed by the global pandemic.

The Melbourne Royal Australian Distilled Spirits Awards, boasting a record-breaking 970 entries from 246 exhibitors across 11 categories, solidified Puss & Mew’s standing among the best of the best. The Champion Victorian Distiller title, recognises not only the quality of their spirits but also their contribution to the rich tradition of distilling in Australia.

Owner Deb Clayton expressed, “The last few years have been very challenging in a lot of ways, and we finally got to open our distillery after health battles and COVID and everything else. We hit the ground running and we’ve just been running since then. There’s always something new to do, something new to invent, new challenges, new recipes.”

Puss & Mew Distillery’s success is rooted in its commitment to crafting spirits that transcend expectations. The name itself, derived from the ingenious world’s first vending machine developed by Captain Dudley Bradstreet, reflects the distillery’s dedication to pushing boundaries in the pursuit of excellence.

Their success not only adds a vibrant chapter to Australia’s distilling heritage but also underscores the innovation and passion inherent in the Australian Owned family.

Congratulations to Puss & Mew Distillery on this well-deserved recognition as the Champion Victorian Distiller of the Year! Learn more about Puss & Mew Distillery at www.pussandmew.com.au.

Proudly Australian, Solar Bollard Lighting

Proudly Australian, Solar Bollard Lighting

Solar Bollard Lighting® has been named as one of the accomplished winners of the Proudly Australian Awards! The Proudly Australian Award recognises businesses that have actively worked to increase their Australian influence in their overall business operations. The award celebrates Solar Bollard Lighting’s commitment to sourcing local materials, using local support services, and manufacturing in Australia.

As an Australian-owned company, Solar Bollard Lighting has been designing and manufacturing premium industrial grade solar bollard lights for public spaces, government and commercial applications, and the mining, gas & oil industries for two decades. Their innovative products are powered only by renewable clean energy, including the world’s first all-in-one solar bollard light, the world’s first IK10 vandal-resistant solar bollard light, and the world’s first IP68 submersible solar bollard light.

Solar Bollard Lighting’s SBL2 Series submersible solar light is designed to withstand even the harshest environmental conditions, including flooding, cyclones, tidal surges, and tsunamis. When all other solar bollard and grid-powered bollard lights have failed, Solar Bollard Lighting continues to light up the night, every night, even when under water.

Solar Bollard Lighting’s commitment to Australian products and services is evident in their operations. They offer a uniquely versatile product line custom-designed to suit each project’s geographical location, levels of shading, and even seasonal snow coverage based upon the winter solstice month. Their clients only receive a genuine SBL2 Series solar bollard light that is “Fit for Purpose,” has a long operational life, reduces operational costs and environmental waste, and reduces their carbon footprint.

The Proudly Australian Award recognises Solar Bollard Lighting’s clear strategy for increasing their Australian influence and implementing initiatives that have resulted in a measurable increase in their use of Australian products and services. Solar Bollard Lighting’s innovative products, commitment to renewable energy, and dedication to Australian-made products and services make them a worthy recipient of the Proudly Australian Award.

We congratulate Solar Bollard Lighting on their award win and look forward to seeing their continued success in the future.

For more information about Solar Bollard Lighting and their award-winning products, visit their website at https://www.solarbollardlighting.com/.

Penrite Oil, Proudly Australian

Penrite Oil, Proudly Australian

Penrite Oil, an Australian owned and operated automotive lubricants manufacturer, has been awarded the Proudly Australian Award, in recognition of their commitment to increasing their Australian influence in their overall business operations.

The Proudly Australian Award recognises businesses that have demonstrated a proactive approach in sourcing local ingredients and materials, using local support services, and manufacturing or producing in Australia. Nominees must have a clear strategy for increasing their Australian influence and have implemented initiatives that have resulted in a measurable increase in their use of Australian products and services.

Penrite’s commitment to quality and their dedication to using locally sourced ingredients and services have made them a deserving winner of the award. From their manufacturing plants in Melbourne and Brisbane, 6 company-owned warehouses, and several third-party logistics warehouses across Australia, Penrite has established itself as a trusted and reliable provider in the industry.

Les Mecoles founded Penrite in 1926 from his parents’ home in St. Kilda, Melbourne. He began making the first batches of oil on his mother’s kitchen stove and delivering them using his father’s wheelbarrow. Oils were manufactured from quality Pennsylvania (PEN) base stocks, and only the right oils (RITE) were ever sold to customers. This dedication to quality earned PENRITE widespread trust and respect.

Under the leadership of John and Margaret Dymond, who acquired Penrite in 1979, the company launched premier ranges including HPR (High Performance Range), Enviro+ engine oils, 10 Tenths Racing oils, motorcycle engine oils, and gear oils and transmission fluids.

In 2018, Penrite acquired the Lightning Cleans brand, with the vision of making Lightning synonymous with cleaning, care, and protection.

As Penrite approaches its 100th year anniversary in 2026, the company remains committed to providing quality oil products and excellent service to its customers. The award is a testament to the company’s continued efforts to support the local economy and increase their Australian influence in their operations.

The Dymond family and the entire Penrite team should be proud of their well-deserved recognition. Congratulations to Penrite Oil for winning the Proudly Australian Award! Learn more about Penrite Oil and their team at https://penriteoil.com.au/.

Ambassador of the Year: NOGO Brands

Ambassador of the Year: NOGO Brands

We are delighted to announce that NOGO Brands has been named the Ambassador of the Year! This is a prestigious award that recognises businesses and individuals who promote Australian Owned certification and actively encourage others to support certified businesses. We are thrilled to see NOGO’s dedication and hard work being recognised with this honour.

Founded by Meg, NOGO is on a mission to provide delicious, gut-friendly sauces and condiments that everyone can enjoy. Meg’s journey with health issues and food allergies inspired her to create a range of products that cater to those with dietary restrictions, without sacrificing flavour. NOGO’s sauces and condiments are Low FODMAP, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and egg-free (excluding the Mayo), and are made from only the best, premium Australian ingredients. Handmade and small batch produced in the Yarra Valley, Victoria, NOGO’s commitment to using local and Australian products where possible is truly commendable.

The Ambassador of the Year award celebrates businesses that have a strong track record of promoting Australian Owned businesses and are recognised as advocates for the Australian economy. NOGO’s dedication to supporting local businesses is evident in their sourcing of ingredients and their commitment to being an Australian Owned business.

At NOGO, they believe that healthy food should not be bland and tasteless. Their range of sauces and condiments are so delicious that you won’t even know they’re Low FODMAP, gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan. NOGO’s products are the perfect solution for busy people who want to eat healthily without sacrificing flavour.

As a proud member of the Australian Owned community, we are thrilled to have NOGO Brands as part of our network. Their dedication to promoting Australian Owned businesses and their commitment to providing healthy and delicious food options is truly inspiring. Congratulations once again to Meg and the NOGO team on this well-deserved award. We look forward to seeing NOGO’s continued success in the future! Read more at https://nogosauces.com.au/.

Small Cairns Sauce Maker Achieves Big Dreams: Queensland Flavours Soon to be Savoured Across America!

Small Cairns Sauce Maker Achieves Big Dreams

A small local business in Cairns, Queensland has achieved a major milestone that has put them on the map not only in Australia, but around the world.  Fenglehorn, an award-winning sauce maker that prides itself on using locally-sourced produce, has secured a major export deal with a major US retailer.

For a business that started at Rusty’s Market in Cairns just a few years ago, this is a remarkable achievement.  The company’s focus on quality and flavour has won them many awards in recent years, including Gold, Silver, and Bronze Awards for their range of Aussie Sauces & BBQ Rubs.

What sets Fenglehorn apart from many other businesses is their unwavering commitment to using 99% Queensland grown produce.  This not only ensures that the products are fresh and delicious, but also supports local farmers and the economy.

The company’s Director, Mikey Hayman, said that exporting to the US market had always been a dream scenario for them since they started in 2017, but it seemed too difficult to break in.  However, with persistence and a little bit of luck, Fenglehorn was invited to exhibit at the Taste of Queensland export showcase, facilitated by Trade & Investment Queensland and held in Brisbane.  This led to negotiations with a major US retailer, and soon Fenglehorn sauces and BBQ rubs will be available in over 3,800 stores across America.

As an Australian Owned Certified business, Fenglehorn truly embodies the values of quality and excellence that our country is known for.  They are a testament to the fact that with hard work, passion, and a commitment to quality, any business can achieve great things.

Congratulations to Fenglehorn for their incredible achievement, and for showcasing the amazing flavours of Queensland to the US consumer market!

Morgan Engineering: Australian Owned Business of the Year

Morgan Engineering – Australian Owned Business of the Year 2022

Australian Owned are proud to announce Morgan Engineering as 2022 Business of the Year. A first of its kind, the Australian Owned Business Awards recognises businesses that have demonstrated excellence and commitment to Australian operations.

The awards seek out the leading lights of the Australian business industry, looking for those whose creativity, commitment, experience and strong leadership in Australian operations have helped them achieve success in an increasingly challenging business climate. 

We received an overwhelming number of nominations for the Business of the Year Award, judged across four different categories including operations, marketing, innovation and commitment and communication.  

Morgan Engineering is at the forefront of global engineering innovation, while maintaining a strong local, Australian-owned focus. They believe that being Australian Owned is an integral part of the company’s day-to-day operations and this is reflected through their products, services, and overall business operation. 

Australian Owned General Manager, Kristy Ponting, said this was an incredible result for the first year of holding these awards.

“Leading a business to success can be a tough challenge in the best of times.  COVID-19 made a significant impact on businesses’ operational environments with many struggling to survive,” said Ms Ponting.

“The Australian Owned Business Awards were introduced to acknowledge and reward the exceptional results, dedication, expertise and sheer hard work of our Australian Owned Certified businesses and Morgan Engineering have exceeded all expectations.” 

Founded in 1975 in Singleton, Morgan Engineering has grown from a small engineering shop, supplying to local family-owned businesses, to one of the most extensive engineering suppliers in the Hunter Valley. Over 50% of Morgan Engineering’s supplier spend is through Australian family-owned businesses.

“Choosing Australian first is close to our heart in every aspect of our business operation,” said Morgan Engineering General Manager, Jeremy Brett.

“By partnering with local suppliers, we can guarantee that our customers receive that extra stamp of approval, knowing that every product and service is in line with Australian guidelines.”

Being Australian Owned is an unwritten policy for Morgan Engineering.  It is engraved into their values and how they operate. 

“Employing local talent and tradespeople into our business, we are supporting the local community by providing job opportunities – which is extremely important to our team.  We are so proud to have won this award,” concluded Mr Brett.  

You can learn more about Morgan Engineering here.

Australian Owned has a mission to support the Australian business community and give businesses the tools to grow and contribute to the long-term prosperity of this country.

Be part of Australia’s growth, support Australian Owned Certified business. You can search our Australian business register online at www.ausowned.com.au.

Fuel Crisis Highlights Need for Australian Sovereignty

Fuel Crisis Highlights Need for Australian Sovereignty


18 March 2022

Australians have been reminded of the risk of supply interruptions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The war and subsequent sanctions against Russia have sent local fuel prices soaring by at least a quarter to well beyond $2 a litre in much of Australia.

Recent natural disasters and the supply pressures caused by the sanctions have shown it is vital to hold a sovereign refining capability that meets our needs during an emergency, as well as into the future.

We now currently import around 90% of our liquid fuels, much of it from Singapore, South Korea, Japan, China and the US. This is a vastly different picture from Australia’s position 20 years ago, when there were eight oil refineries located strategically around the country.

The gradual disappearance of local oil refining capacity has seen fuel storage levels drop dramatically, from 90 days supply to less than 30 days supply.

Australia’s fuel security is essential for our national security and underpins our economy.

A spokesperson for the Federal Energy Minister, Angus Taylor, said the Morrison government is taking “strong, proactive measures to further enhance our domestic fuel security.” These included subsidising the two refineries until at least mid-2027, introducing a minimum stockholding obligation to safeguard levels of key transport fuels, and increasing onshore diesel stocks by 40% with industry through a $260m grants program.

Whilst supply issues will continue, this is a timely reminder of the importance of Australian-based and owned businesses, as they are the backbone of the Australian economic landscape.  Supporting Australian owned oil suppliers will help keep more Australians employed and will invest money directly back into our communities – which we so desperately need. 

Riordan Fuels is an Aussie-owned business with 100% of their fuel produced in Geelong, Victoria.  They provide Aussies with an extensive fuel network that expands across regional Victoria, metropolitan Victoria and Southern NSW.

Officially certified as an Australian Owned business, Riordan Fuels have seven service stations and more than 40 self-service diesel tanks along with 50 private fuel tanks in its fuel distribution network which are maintained round the clock by their modern fleet of trucks & fuel tankers.

Employing over 65 people, Riordan Fuels started with a big vision to become the leader in fuel supply to regional communities and that is exactly what they have done.  They have a strong customer base and commitment to regional areas. 

“Because we are an Aussie owned family business we are part of the community which we serve,” said Riordan Fuels Owner, Robert Riordan.

“Supporting Aussie owned businesses is crucial as communities recover and rebuild post COVID-19.  It’s important to keep the country’s cities and towns active and alive.  Buying from Aussie owned businesses keeps money moving through our economy, keeps Aussies in jobs and contributes to the fabric of our communities.”

Australian Owned Certified businesses are all about Australia.  They are Australian people. In Australian communities.  Investing directly in the Australian economy. 

“It’s important to us to be part of a national initiative like Australian Owned that’s strengthening communities through jobs and investment and contributing to the long-term prosperity of this country,” said Mr Riordan. 

Is your business Australian Owned? Support the initiative by making an application for certification online at www.ausowned.com.au.

2022 Federal Election: Statement of Priorities

Federal Election Priorities 2022

INVEST IN AUSTRALIA

Australian Owned has publicly released its 2022 Federal Election Statement of Priorities. Informed by formal submissions from our certified business community which consists of business owners and operators as well as engaged discussion with our consumer-based audience of 1.7 million Australian group members, this document outlines two national policy initiatives that will optimise partnerships between the Commonwealth, the Australian business sector, and the consumer.

Thousands of businesses have sought Australian Owned certification in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the vulnerability of the Australian economy to foreign-owned supply chains.

Investing in Australian business and ensuring that investment is genuine and qualified is more important than ever. Too often we see profits meant for Australia, sent offshore with multi‐nationals paying almost no tax and whose business interest cannot be relied on.

Australian Owned certification supports and promotes genuine Australian business. We are Australia’s only trusted and transparent certification system that ensures business and products are genuinely Australian owned and made. This ensures profits stay in Australia, are invested in the Australian economy, supporting the long-term prosperity of our country.

In this election, we are looking for the next government to implement procurement policies and programs to genuinely benefit Australian owned and operated businesses. Equally as important is the requirement that ownership and manufacturing is qualified to an acceptable degree, benefiting Australia, and protecting our supply chain.

Keeping profits and security in Australia must be a priority.

Whilst the current public sentiment and Government support for Australian business is encouraging, there continues to be flaws in procurement frameworks around the country.

We strongly support action under these priorities, which puts Australian business first. We encourage the incoming Federal Government to develop an integrated cross-departmental, collaborative, and cross-sector policy framework that provides stronger and more active support for the Australian business sector.

These priorities were developed following extensive consultation and collaboration with our certified licensee network, as well as business owners and consumers across the country.

Alongside our business community and Australian consumer base, we are now calling on all parties and candidates to support these national priorities ahead of the election and empower Australian-owned businesses to play a meaningful role in Australia’s recovery.

Australia: Don’t Leave Aussie Business Behind

AUSTRALIA: DON’T LEAVE AUSSIE BUSINESS BEHIND

It is encouraging to see the recently unveiled national Australian logo ‘Only in Australia’ – to jump start much needed trade and investment.  

Whilst millions of Aussie dollars thrown behind a new national logo design might appear as a great step forward, we must ensure we do not leave Aussie business owners and manufacturers behind in the process.  

Local manufacturing is critical to a modern Australian economy. It is a vital part of Australia’s response to the COVID-19 crisis and is key to almost every supply chain. Transparency in ownership and manufacturing is crucial for sustainable long term growth and to keep investment here.  

Too often we see profits meant for Australia, sent offshore with multi‐nationals paying almost no tax. When businesses are genuinely owned by Australians, profits stay here and are invested here. This is integral to our economic growth, creating new jobs and contributing to the long-term prosperity of our great country.  

A national, trusted and transparent business ownership certification is crucial if we truly believe in promoting and investing in Australia.  

Australian Owned General Manager, Kristy Ponting, said a tick box “claiming Australian ownership” is not enough. 

“Australian Owned was founded with a vision to build transparency and trust in the Australian Owned Certified logo for both business and the consumer,” said Ms Ponting.  

“The AO logo isn’t a tokentistic stamp of Aussie approval. It’s an official certification. This means that businesses can’t use the logo unless they have gone through our stringent certification process.”

Australian Owned has seen significant and rapid growth since its establishment.  This confirms that ownership and manufacturing matters to the general public and business.  

Businesses can apply for their certification via the Australian Owned website.  

ENDS

For enquiries, contact [email protected]

About Australian Owned:

Australian Owned (AO) was established to promote and support businesses that are owned by Aussies.  This extends to businesses that offer services and to those who manufacture their products right here in Australia. This means profits stay here and are reinvested here, supporting Aussie jobs and growing the economy. 

When a business applies for certification, a qualified compliance team breaks down complex company structures and guarantees Australian ownership and manufacturing.

Only businesses with considerable Australian influence are awarded an Australian Owned Certified logo, signifying, and recognising that the Australian economy will benefit by the support of the business/ product bearing the logo.

Products that have the Australian Owned Certified logo on a label or product packaging are proving that their production is ‘significantly Australian’ (materials, ingredients, labour hours etc) and in recognition, have been granted approval, in accordance with the Australian Owned Certification Rules (as lodged with the ACCC), to display the Australian Owned Certified logo.  

 The trusted AO logo says:

  • Transparency in ownership and manufacturing
  • Due Diligence
  • Quality Control
  • Quality Compliance Professionals
  • Application Examination
  • Business Operation Evaluation
  • Determination of significant Australian influence in business operations

Industry Collaboration Success

Industry Collaboration Success

Industry Collaboration Success

The 7 words launching Aussie owned businesses to the world

Aussies are innovators at heart.  We see obstacles that need a solution and we don’t shy away from hard work.  This is the Aussie way.  And the Australian Fencing and Agriculture industry is no different.  

A group of small-scale manufacturers in Australia have received national and international attention for their innovative products – all designed and made right here in Australia.

Brought together by Woodshield Business Development Manager, Ashley Davidson, these businesses have a common interest: keeping jobs and investment in Australia.  They also share a common logo: the unique Australian Owned Certified logo.   

“I’m a proud Aussie owned manufacturer and it was a no brainer to apply for my Australian Owned Certification.  Once I realised there were other businesses in the fencing industry that were officially Australian Owned certified – I had to bring us together,” said Mr Davidson.

“We have all overcome obstacles in our own farming and agriculture businesses and have designed and manufactured new products to find a solution,” said Mr Davidson.   

Mr Davidson’s obstacle was to find a replacement to chemically treated timber posts. 

“I had to find a product that was strong, durable, easy to use and recyclable. The Wood-Shield Post concept was created and is now a unique patented product.”

James Higgins from James Higgins Rural Fencing is another incredible story from this group of Aussie owned businesses.  

“One particular problem common with old fences is loose and sagging wires.  My Australian manufactured fence repair tool solution is the result of trial and error.  Since starting the design process in early 2019, we have tested nine different prototypes in order to arrive at the finished model.  

James said that whilst 2020 presented some real curveballs, the one huge benefit was a renewed interest in Australian made and owned products. 

“Since getting on board with the Australian Owned team and the group effort started by Ashley Davidson from Woodshield, I’ve noticed a distinct uptick in sales and interest from both domestic and international markets.”

Another fencing invention, the Vini Clip was designed by Ian Western from Plastic Precise Products Co – in response to a need for a wire clip for the vineyard industry that could stand up against extreme temperatures and last the distance.  

“In 2009 many large businesses moved offshore for their requirements and Australian manufacturing took a hit. We decided to downsize and focus on a smaller range of products. The Vini-Clip continues to be sold around Australia each year and is iconic in the industry.”

Then there is Walter Fencing.  When asked why they moved into the business of manufacturing equipment, Company Director Stephen Walters replied, “we’ve always engineered and made our own gear to help make fencing as quick and efficient as possible, and we realised if we love our gear so much, other people might too!”

“Our goal is to increase our research and development capabilities to allow us to remain at the cutting edge of innovation in the fencing industry.  We will continue to work with contractors and farmers in an attempt to shape the future of rural fencing in Australia for the better.”

Four other businesses make up this Australian Owned Fencing Group; Wireman HQ, Spiralfast wire joiner, Davo’s Fencing Clip and Fastway Fencing Tie Offs.

This group of fencing and agriculture industry leaders have had enthusiastic endorsements from Australian agriculturalist and educator turned ‘posterboy for fencing’, Tim Thompson.  His promotion of Australian Agriculture has helped boost awareness and promotion of these fencing products through his video reviews.  

Australian Owned General Manager Kristy Ponting applauded the Aussie engenuity and collaboration of these businesses.

“Our mission is to support the Australian business community and give businesses the tools to grow and contribute to the long-term prosperity of this country.

“It is so encouraging to see Australian Owned Certified licensees use our strong and growing network to boost Australian industry.  

“Long live Aussie manufacturing!”

Be part of Australia’s growth, support Australian Owned Certified business.  

Search our Australian business register online at www.ausowned.com.au.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT: Veronica Hosking / 0401 815 853 / [email protected]