The Hunter scooped the pool at the inaugural Motor Traders’ Association of New South Wales (MTA NSW) Automotive Excellence Awards 2026.
With two apprentices and a Singleton business taking home plaudits at the gala event at the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, hosted by Charlie Pickering, it highlighted the region’s exceptional automotive talent.
Singleton’s Bridie Bennett was named 1st Year Apprentice of the Year.
If that wasn’t enough, Rutherford’s Roy Lardner Burke claimed two accolades.
He picked up 3rd Year Apprentice of the Year and the night’s top apprenticeship gong, Outstanding Apprentice of the Year.
Capping off the local success, Singleton’s Lancaster Motor Group collected the MTA NSW Member Recognition Award for its incredible 100-year membership.
“To be recognised by MTA NSW is a tremendous honour,” Chris Lancaster said.
“It’s a reflection of the commitment of our entire team and the relationships we’ve built with our community in Singleton.”
Ms Bennett is completing a Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology with Singleton Earthmoving, while Mr Lardner Burke is undertaking the same qualification with Heavy Diesel Specialists in Rutherford.
Both credited their respective employers for the role they played.
“I still can’t believe it,” Ms Bennett said.
“To be recognised at a state level in my first year means the world to me.
“I’m so grateful to the team at Singleton Earthmoving for giving me the opportunity and pushing me to be my best.”
It was a similar sentiment from Mr Lardner Burke.
“To take home two awards on the same night is something I never expected,” he said.
“I owe so much to the team at Heavy Diesel Specialists.
“They’ve backed me from day one… and I wouldn’t be here without them.”
MTA NSW CEO Stavros Yallouridis congratulated all the Hunter winners on their outstanding achievement.
“Three from the one region is a remarkable result,” he said.
“Bridie, Roy and Lancaster Motor Group should all be very proud.
“Since 1910, MTA NSW has supported its members as the voice of the NSW automotive industry.
“The awards are our way of celebrating the people and businesses who form the backbone of our $55 billion industry.”
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