Godfrey Hirst Commercial Honoured with Dual Wins at Geelong Manufacturing Council Awards.

Geelong, VIC – GH Commercial has cemented its position as a leader in sustainable and high-quality manufacturing, taking home two prestigious accolades at the 2025 Geelong Manufacturing Council Awards Night. The company was recognised for its commitment to both environmental responsibility and operational excellence, securing the Sustainability Excellence Award and the Manufacturing Excellence Award.

A Double Victory for Godfrey Hirst

The evening's first major win came with the Sustainability Excellence Award, proudly sponsored by Viva Energy. The award was presented by Bill Patterson, General Manager Refining at Viva Energy, to Lachlan McMurtrie, the newly appointed Chief Sustainability Officer of Mohawk Flooring Oceania representing Godfrey Hirst. This award acknowledges GH Commercial’s industry-leading efforts to reduce emissions and transition towards a more sustainable future.

One of the most impressive achievements highlighted was the company’s substantial progress in reducing its carbon footprint. As of the end of 2024, GH Commercial had successfully cut its Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 34% compared to 2020 levels. This milestone places the company well on track to achieve its ambitious target of a 42% reduction in emissions by 2030.

To achieve these emissions reductions, the company has invested significantly in renewable energy solutions. All of its Australian manufacturing sites - and approximately half of its New Zealand operations - are now equipped with large-scale rooftop solar installations. These solar systems generate up to 60% of daytime electricity needs for the manufacturing facilities.

Championing Manufacturing Excellence

The second award of the night recognised GH Commercial’s ongoing commitment to innovation, efficiency, and leadership in Australian manufacturing. The Manufacturing Excellence Award, sponsored by Hanwha Defence Australia, was presented by Acting Managing Director Dean Michie to Jane Fletcher, General Manager, and Brendan Glen, Chief Operations Manager, both representing Godfrey Hirst Australia.

This recognition showcases GH Commercial’s continued investment in cutting-edge manufacturing technologies, skilled workforce development, and operational performance, all of which contribute to the company’s reputation as a premier flooring manufacturer in the region.

Driving a Better Future

Speaking after the awards, GH Commercial leaders highlighted the significance of the recognitions. "These awards are a testament to the dedication of our entire team," said Jane Fletcher. "They reflect the work we’ve done not only to improve how we manufacture, but also how we reduce our environmental impact in the process.

Lachlan McMurtrie echoed the sentiment: "Sustainability is not just a target for us - it’s embedded into how we think and operate as a business. We are proud to be leading the way in sustainable manufacturing practices and to be recognised by our peers in the industry."

Setting the Standard in Manufacturing

The Geelong Manufacturing Council Awards celebrate innovation, excellence, and leadership in manufacturing across the region. GH Commercial’s dual win reinforces its status as a pioneer in flooring manufacturing, not only producing high-quality products but doing so in a way that prioritises the planet and future generations.

With continued momentum behind its sustainability programs and manufacturing innovation, GH Commercial is well-positioned to achieve its future goals - and to continue leading the way in responsible and forward-thinking industry practices.