Australia’s finest sausages, burgers and smallgoods took centre stage last night as 400 meat industry representatives gathered in Melbourne to celebrate the craftsmanship, innovation and people shaping Australia’s meat industry at the 2026 Australian Meat Excellence Awards.
Hosted by the Australian Meat Industry Council (AMIC), the inaugural Awards recognised outstanding excellence across 45 categories, showcasing both traditional recipes and innovative new flavours from the nation’s best retail butchers and smallgoods makers.
From the next generation of talent to businesses setting the benchmark nationwide, the Awards Dinner was a memorable evening celebrating the skill, pride and passion that underpin Australia’s world‑class meat retail sector.
The Awards program culminated in the announcement of winners across multiple categories, highlighting the quality, consistency and craftsmanship that continue to define Australia’s meat industry.
Celebrating the next generation
A highlight of the evening was the announcement of the 2025 National Apprentice Butcher of the Year, awarded to Tamika Banks of Malone’s Butchery, Northern Territory, with Natasha Fisher of Rumpshakers, Western Australia, named runner‑up.
Tamika said she was hungry for first place after competing in the 2024 National Apprentice of the Year competition – and she absolutely meant it.
This year’s apprentice finalists delivered an outstanding showcase of skill, dedication and passion over two impressive days of competition, highlighting the exceptional talent emerging across the industry.
The National Apprentice Competition was held at William Angliss Institute on Wednesday 18 and Thursday 19 March, following state competitions throughout 2025 which saw more than 80 apprentices compete nationally. The program also reflected the changing face of the industry, with five of the seven national finalists being female apprentice butchers.
AMIC also announced Luke Leyson of Schlink Smallgoods as the 2026 Smallgoods Young Achiever.
This award recognises outstanding young professionals under 35 who are making a meaningful impact across Australia’s smallgoods sector through leadership, innovation and commitment to excellence.
Industry excellence on display
AMIC Chief Executive Officer Tim Ryan said the Awards celebrate the people behind Australia’s favourite everyday meat products.
“These Awards recognise the very best sausages, burgers and smallgoods being produced in butcher shops and smallgoods businesses across the country,” Mr Ryan said.
“Behind every great product is a skilled butcher or smallgoods maker who takes pride in their craft, uses quality ingredients and delivers a product Australians love to put on their tables.”
Mr Ryan said the Awards also reflect the strength and diversity of the sector, from regional family‑owned businesses to larger corporate operations.
“The Australian Meat Excellence Awards celebrate not only great products, but the businesses and people who support local communities, create jobs and play a vital role in Australia’s food supply.”
Knowledge‑sharing and innovation
The Awards were supported by Smallgoods Masterclasses, held on Thursday morning, providing hands‑on learning and expert insights into best‑practice smallgoods production, traditional techniques and modern innovation.
Winners were announced during the Australian Meat Excellence Awards Dinner, proudly sponsored by DR Johnston, a member of the JBS family, and attended by industry leaders, supply chain partners and key stakeholders from across the country.
Media contact:
Jemma Harper – General Manager Corporate Affairs
M: 0429 040 128
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