In the final part of our three part series, we provide the bios of the remaining 2023 ProPrint Awards winners in the Printer 50 category, which were recognised at the ProPrint Awards on 3 November.
The remaining winners appear below in alphabetical order:
Ben Browning
Managing Director | 1800 FOR PROMO
Ben started 1800 For Promo back in 2006, and it has since become one of the leading promotional product suppliers in Australia. Ben is passionate and committed to environmental sustainability, using recyclable and reusable materials when possible. In the last 12 months 1800 For Promo has grown – it has gained and retained some of Australia biggest brands such as Red Bull, Nova, Channel Nine and Paramount. This, along with the addition of four employees, is seen as a great achievement for Ben as a business owner. He takes pride in being able to provide financial support to four extra families.
Ben Carroll & Mandy Oliver
Director & General Manager | VELFLEX AND VICON TRANSFERS
Ben is recognised as a key innovator in the digital screen- printing space, including developing a new direct-to-film technology and trialling the best consumable and hardware outcomes to help customers avoid technology pitfalls. In addition to Ben’s enthusiastic growth plans, the business has also strengthened under the solid leadership of Mandy who uses her IT background to identify opportunities for further growth. Among these has been the development of heat press masterclasses and the launch of the UltraColour brand. They are now building and will be launching a free online education library in 2024 to assist the textile printing community.
Calli McCool
QLD State Sales Manager | MMT PRINT
A passionate professional who has been working at MMT since 2001, Calli started out as a receptionist and worked her way to state sales manager. She is active on social media promoting MMT Print and Omnigraphics and is passionate about environmental stability in work carried out, regularly seeking to promote green alternatives. Calli completed a Social Media course online while working full time to further her career and provide further marketing assistance to MMT. She has also been working with an organisation to help older Australians with dementia, something she is cares deeply about.
Christian Middleton
Managing Director | CLOUDPRINT GROUP
Christian Middleton has been managing director of creative print house Cloudprint Group for nearly six years. Over the past 12 months he and his team have installed new print technologies and doubled the group’s warehouse space. This has enabled the Sydney-based company to offer faster turnaround times and a better overall experience for its clients. The company’s passion for environmental sustainability is at the core of its business philosophy and is evident in every aspect of its operations.
Christopher Dean
Group Training Officer | MULTI-COLOR CORPORATION
Since 1983 Christopher has actively participated in the printing industry, progressing from an apprentice to a skilled tradesperson. In 2002 he became a trainer at TAFE SA for over 16 years, where he mentored and educated more than 1000 apprentices across Australia. In 2022 he assumed the role of CEO at Print Training Australia before he moved on to his current position, where he offers hands-on apprentice training. Christopher is motivated to address the challenge presented due to the industry’s ageing workforce. With the Printer 50 Award as a platform, he is committed to spearheading initiatives that will attract fresh talent, preserve the legacy of skilled tradespeople, and solidify the printing industry′s position as a vital pillar of its economy.
Clinton Daley
Managing Director | VALIANT PRESS
Clinton, 26, is a fourth-generation printer who recently moved from Melbourne to Sydney to increase the company’s focus on the NSW market and grow market share, through the company’s joint venture with RealBase. He is recognised for his role in overseeing Eastern Press’ merger into NEO’s operations, and the positive collaborative relationships he has established with other businesses, including CMYKhub and Currie Group. In February 2023, the NewLitho Group, which encompasses NEO and Eastern Press, acquired Valiant Press, where he is now managing director. He will graduate from the Melbourne Business School with an MBA in October this year and sits on the board of the Orchestra Project as its Treasurer.
Cory Hall
Group CEO | PRECISION GROUP
Cory is recognised for making strategic investments which have allowed Precision Group to service segments that traditionally wouldn’t be exposed to the company. This includes acquiring a print business, two mail houses, establishing a 3PL business in Auckland and setting up a not- for-profit specialty agency. He is proud to have worked in the print industry for the past 27 years and to have built Precision Group into what it is today. The company is now a significant player in the industry and employs 167 staff, has achieved ISO accreditations, and achieved Sustainable Green Printer status.
Dan Bodey
Operations Manager | BOOM STUDIOS
In his role at Boom Studios, a company that transforms ideas into epic retail spaces, brand experiences, art installations, event pop-ups, stickers and signs, Dan has an intense focus on sustainability and the natural environment. He has a passion for ensuring the impact on the natural environment is minimal and the materials are used and disposed of in a sustainable manner wherever possible. Dan has promoted the use of sustainable and progressive materials in the industry and has driven the demand for these products in the retail environment.
Daniel Edwards
Founder | POSTERBOY PRINTING
Daniel joined the print industry in 2002 as a graphic designer and started Posterboy Printing in 2006. In 2022 he turned his love of print into the book ‘The Power of Print – Print Marketing in a Digital World’. He was recently part of the FESPA Young Leaders Program. For close to a year, he has been working with the VMG Print Group, and is recognised for developing a fresh approach to the execution of print catalogues. Daniel contributes to Australian Printer magazine, with his columns offering unique insight into print and what it has to offer. In his spare time he competes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournaments, is a student of the cello and was previously a chef, who is passing on the skill to his children.
Darren Delaney
General Manager | ALLKOTES
Darren has been a member of the print industry for over 26 years and is well known and highly regarded for the support he offers in all facets of the print chain. AllKotes has existed for 40 years, and Darren contributes to its ongoing success as a provider of high-quality coatings and finishes. What has been so important in his time at Allkotes is the team around him. Darren has always had high praise for the staff and the team environment created around him. He is proud of the friendships and relationships built with so many businesses in VIC, QLD, ACT, SA and NSW.
Darryl Meyer
CEO, Print Web Offset | IVE GROUP
Darryl took up his current role in 2018, and since 2000 worked in management roles at PMP Print, Webstar, Bluestar Web; and Bluestar Web & Franklin Web (both divisions of the IVE Group). Described by peers as a “top-quality operator and a great guy”, he is acknowledged as an unsung hero in the wider industry for the tireless efforts he has exerted over his entire career. He is also recognised for his “first class” strategy development and execution as well as his dedicated to the growth of the IVE business, and the people that work there.
David Walton
CEO | OMNIGRAPHICS AUSTRALIA AND MMTB
David recently purchased Omnigraphics and MMTB after 15 years at Omnigraphics, QMS and MMTB. He became CEO in October 2022 and at under 35 years of age, purchased both businesses from QMS in June 2023. He is dedicated to print and suppling quality, outstanding turnarounds and out of the box solutions for customers and strives to embrace change by investing in technology and good staff, who he appreciates. The companies have excellent relationships with local print groups and strive to find new environmentally friendly products, with David involved in programs to develop end of life solutions for print industry waste.
Dean Langford
General Manager – Brand Activations | IVE GROUP
With more than 25 years’ experience, Dean has held a range of key roles in the Australian print industry. His most recent appointment sees him take on the role of General Manager of Australia′s largest onshore brand activation offering. A quiet achiever, Dean has consistently led his business units to considerable growth whilst establishing strong client and supplier relationships. While Dean acknowledges his involvement in working with successful teams who produce amazing collective results, he emphasises that it is a shared contribution, and an environment he wishes to continue to lead in this manner with the goal to develop more leaders and talented people.
Dominic Borrello
Co-Founder | IMAGEBOX GROUP
In 1988, Dominic co-founded ImageBox which quickly evolved from a commercial photographic laboratory to emerge as a prominent leader in digital large-format printing. After 35 years, Dominic is still passionate and actively involved with clients, oversees daily operations, and drives equipment innovation to simplify and automate with the latest digital and technological printing platforms, ensuring Image Box remains at the industry forefront. His growth-oriented vision has led to strategic expansions and investments, enabling the company to offer diverse products and cutting-edge solutions to a growing client base. With a great team of skilled and dedicated staff, Dominic′s commitment to excellence and efficiency keeps a sharp focus on the needs of clients.
Ewen Donaldson
Director | VIVAD
Ewen has operated Vivad for the last 23 years and utilises a range of technologies including UV cure, latex and dye sublimation printing techniques. The company’s popular web-to-print portal allows resellers to easily outsource its large format print production. He is recognised for providing exceptional levels of service and quality to his customers which has made wide format print more accessible and affordable while increasing the viability of offering different applications. He cites the camaraderie in the industry as one of its highlights, whether it is helping with overflow work, lending some ink or roll stock.
Glenn Moffatt
Production Manager | CACTUS IMAGING
Glenn has been in print production for several years and is highly respected throughout the industry. He is regarded as a major part of the Cactus Imaging Management Team and is known to be extremely reliable. He is recognised for his attention to detail and his extraordinary knowledge, which has proved to be a huge asset to Cactus Imaging. Glenn participated in the FESPA Future Leaders program last year and excelled.
Jason Turvill
Operations Manager | EASY SIGNS
Jason stumbled into the print industry after a stint at university studying engineering and has since worn almost every hat available at Easy Signs. He has a passion for technology and innovation, advancing all aspects of the product offerings at Easy Signs, investing in new technologies and ideas to push the print industry forward in sustainability. Jason’s achievements include planning and execution of the manufacturing site fit out at the USA Easy Signs business, as well as managing the customer service, graphic design, marketing, and software development team at Easy Signs. He achieved his biggest single objective since the inception of Easy Signs – 500 jobs a day on average.
Kirsty & Luke Woodhead
Directors | BREEN PRINTING
Born into the industry, Kirsty has an unwavering love for print and with Luke’s long-term commitment and growing passion for the industry, they are dedicated to creating quality, innovative solutions for their clients and share their passion for print with the wider community. Co-owners of the 50-year- old small printing business, the pair is committed to nurturing emerging talent. As business owners they have shown resilience, overcoming challenges faced by many like-minded small businesses. They are focused on growth and are investing in new technologies and software, as well as in their team, with four newly created roles. They are also focusing on adapting sustainable practices to their daily workings and long-term future of their business – and the planet.
Marcus Marchant
CEO | VISTAPRINT
Marcus has shown great expertise and displayed exemplary leadership skills as Vistaprint CEO Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. He brings to the table a thoughtful approach to leadership and is proactive in working with colleagues and takes the time to understand and hear them out. Whether it’s working internally or externally, Marcus looks to be a hands-on leader which exemplifies his core values. Marcus is also known for his passion in his community with several initiatives aimed to promote diversity and inclusion in workplaces.
Paul Wilcockson
Production Director | JCDECAUX GROUP
With a wealth of experience in the print industry, Paul has honed his skills on leading complex transformations, stakeholder management and achieving successful outcomes. He is proficient in financial management, risk analysis and team leadership. Supporting fellow printers is a priority and he has participated in industry conferences and workshops, where he openly shares his insights and best practices. Paul has transitioned the company’s print operations to renewable energy sources and is an advocate for eco-friendly materials. His print journey involves elevating print′s importance, aiding colleagues, championing sustainability, and propelling progress.
Samantha Bailey-Jensen
Director | BAILEY GROUP
Samantha is a second-generation signage professional and company director alongside her brother Peter Bailey and has worked in the industry for 24 years across varied roles. She is an active member of Business South Bank and business partner to the Brisbane Economic Development Board. Samantha has been industry recognised by HIA Qld Building Women Award, ProPrint Printer 50, HP Digital Excellence Awards, and the Lord Mayor’s Business Awards for Outstanding Small Business. Through Bailey Print Group, Samantha works to give back to the community through fundraising and social impact. Her biggest achievement in the past 12 months was securing signage projects for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 and the Brisbane 2032 Olympics.
Samantha Faye Rogers
Director and Co-Owner | DRIVE CREATIVE
Sam started Kultura Creative five years ago, and in 2021 with business partner Daniel Sharples, it evolved to become Drive Creative – an industry leader in vehicle wrapping and signage. A collaborative shop, Drive Creative worked on the M4 tribute ‵Art Car′ project, with ORAFOL Australia and BMW Australia, which successfully showcased creativity and technical skills within the Drive Creative team, as well as the coordination involved in the project and the brands they aligned with. Sam is passionate about contributing to make the industry an exciting space for women to work and excel in. The company is focused on sustainability in the future with plans to install solar panels on the roof of the factory and electric car switchovers in the pipeline.
Simon Carmody
Managing Director | SPOT PRODUCTIONS
Over the last two decades Simon has worked through all levels of production and management to become the business owner he is today. He is recognised for running a strong business in Brisbane which over the years has gone from strength to strength prompting expansion into bigger factory spaces and regular technology upgrades. Simon now employs 90 staff and is humbled by the ongoing support of national clients. He is also a strong voice for the industry and is a board member of the Visual Media Association. Simon is known as someone who is happy to help others and enjoys arranging industry charity events.
Sonia Shwabsky
CEO | KWIK KOPY AUSTRALIA
With over 20 years in the visual media industry, Sonia spearheaded digital transformation at Snap Print & Design before becoming CEO of Kwik Kopy Australia in 2022. Her experience spans corporate leadership roles, cutting-edge technology environments, and entrepreneurial ventures, which has deepened her belief in the power of people. An advocate for talent nurturing, she understands the value of bringing the right team on board and, more importantly, cultivating an environment where they can excel, innovate, and bring their visions to life. Her tenure at Kwik Kopy was a testament to the ‘people-first’ approach. Embracing the “We Make Possible” brand philosophy was also about instilling a renewed sense of purpose and passion among the team.
Stephen Lamont
Managing Director | LAMONT SUSTAINABLE SIGN SOLUTIONS
After spending 10 years as a sign solutions provider, Stephen has enabled Lamont Graphics to transition into the Northern Australian region′s only large format trade supplier for the signage industry. As a qualified tradesman with 25 years in the production of signage, Lamont provides business coaching as part of its efforts to enable sign companies to grow and thrive. He is recognised for his commitment to lifting print’s profile, supporting fellow printers, promoting environmental sustainability, and advancing his business. Through active participation, knowledge sharing, sustainable practices, and a growth-oriented mindset, he aims to make a positive impact in the print industry.
Congratulations to all the winners!
Note: All category winners are featured in the December 2023 issue of ProPrint, which can be accessed here.
If you would like more information about the ProPrint Awards, including sponsorship enquiries for 2024, email: carmen@proprint.com.au or call 0410 582 450.
Sponsors
Massive thanks to our sponsors – without them we could not run these awards!
Platinum Sponsor – Durst Oceania
Gold Sponsors – Ball & Doggett, FUJFILM Australia, HP, IVE Group, Kwik Kopy Australia, Pozitive and Visual Connections
Silver Sponsors – Böttcher Systems, Bright Print Group, Cactus Imaging, Canon Production Printing Australia, Graph-Pak, Konica Minolta, KURZ, Lamson Paragon, OKI, PAKKO, Ricoh, and Spicers
Auditing Partner – PKF
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