Meet our Service to the Region award winners
As we celebrate 200 years of supporting NSW businesses, the Business NSW Service to the Region Recognition Award recognises individuals whose exceptional service, leadership and commitment have helped shape stronger communities and regions across the state.
Mid North Coast
Bree Katsmangos
Bree is recognised for her exceptional and sustained leadership in regional business development, workforce sustainability, and community collaboration across the Mid North Coast region. Over more than a decade, Bree has united diverse sectors to address workforce shortages and social economic challenges, notably leading the innovative 'AH202 - Support when we need it' initiative including the Mid Coast Community Connector Program. These initiatives have significantly boosted workforce attraction and retention, creating lasting economic benefits and workforce stability worth millions to the region. Her work has had impact felt well beyond the Mid Coast, and this award honours Bree’s long-term dedication to strengthening regional resilience, economic participation, and social wellbeing.
Western NSW
Lee O'Connor
Lee has devoted over 30 years to advancing Western NSW through economic development, business leadership, and community service. She served as Economic Development Manager at Coonamble Shire Council for more than 15 years, driving business growth and regional initiatives. Since 2017, Lee has owned and managed The Coonamble Times, preserving this long-standing local newspaper, and in 2021 launched the Western Plains App to connect 11 local government areas through news and business information. A committed community leader, she co-founded the Drought Busters Alliance and has driven major fundraising and local business support campaigns. Lee also served as Vice President of Country Press NSW and was named to the NSW Hidden Treasures Honour Roll in 2024.
Hunter
Ian Pedersen
Ian Pedersen has devoted more than 35 years to serving the Hunter region and NSW business community through exceptional leadership, advocacy and voluntary service. A Life Member of Business Hunter, Ian served on its Board for 17 years, including as President, helping guide the region through pivotal periods including recovery from the Newcastle Earthquake and the economic transition following the closure of the BHP Newcastle Steelworks. He has made significant contributions through leadership roles with Business NSW, Engineers Australia and Regional Development Australia Hunter, advancing infrastructure, industry and regional development outcomes. Ian’s enduring commitment, expertise and service have left a lasting legacy for the Hunter and the broader NSW business community.
Illawarra Shoalhaven
Terry Wetherall AM
Terry is a respected regional leader whose decades of service have made a profound and lasting impact on the Illawarra Shoalhaven business and community. As a past President of Business NSW, the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Illawarra Business Chamber, he has been a tireless advocate for small and medium enterprises, infrastructure and sustainable economic growth. Terry was Chair of CareSuper and served as a Director of Industry Super Australia, with his leadership in the superannuation sector contributing to his appointment as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM). Beyond business, Terry is a passionate advocate for mental health through One Door Mental Health Illawarra, exemplifying a lifetime of service to both business and community.
Western Sydney
Richard Fox
Richard has been a driving force behind Western Sydney’s transformation, using his passion for sport, business and community to create a lasting legacy for the region. A five-time world champion and Olympian, he championed the creation of the Penrith Whitewater Stadium, securing a world-class venue that continues to inspire athletes and attract visitors. As a Board member and Chair of the Finance & Performance Committee of the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, and through his national and international leadership in sport, Richard continues to strengthen healthier, more connected communities while leveraging major events and tourism to deliver lasting social and economic benefits. He receives this award in recognition of his outstanding commitment to making Western Sydney a thriving region.
Sydney
Steven Pearce AFSM
Steven’s 41 years of leadership across Fire Rescue NSW, NSW State Emergency Service, Surf Life Saving NSW, and various community organisations reflect an unwavering commitment to public safety and service. As CEO of Surf Life Saving NSW, one of the largest volunteer emergency services in Australia, he guides a vast team of 86,000 salaried and volunteer members, fostering a culture of excellence, inclusivity, and resilience. Steven’s ability to lead transformational change across governance, operations, and community engagement has been widely evident and impactful and has strengthened vital emergency and rescue services that save lives every day. His love for serving NSW communities and his dedication to building a safer, more resilient future make him a true regional hero.
Central Coast
Frank Sammut
For the past decade, Frank has led Central Coast Industry Connect (CCIC), fostering strong partnerships between industry, government, education, and research to drive regional growth. He played a key role in establishing the $17 million Central Coast Food Manufacturing Innovation Hub, a landmark project that positions the region as a leader in food production and skills development. With nearly 20 years of involvement in the Central Coast business community, including serving as Regional President for Business NSW, Frank’s dedication and achievements have made a lasting difference to the manufacturing ecosystem and economic vitality of the Central Coast region.
Northern Rivers
Pamela Brook
Pam Brook is a true Northern Rivers Regional Hero, recognised for her exceptional 37-year contribution to business, community and regenerative farming. Together with her husband Martin, she co-founded Brookfarm, transforming a family startup into one of Australia's leading premium food brands while creating local employment and championing Australian agriculture. Her leadership extends beyond business through regenerative farming, strengthening the regional food sector and co-founding Coolamon Community to support First Nations mothers and babies. Pam believes the best outcomes come from great people working together, and credits her success to the partners, teams and volunteers who have shared the journey. Her legacy is one of collaboration, purpose and building a stronger future for the Northern Rivers.
New England North West
Tim Coates
Tim has spent over 25 years strengthening the New England North West through business leadership, advocacy, and community service. After founding Australian Training and Consulting, he supported workforce development across regional Australia. Tim served eight years as President of the Tamworth Business Chamber alongside two as Vice President and was the inaugural President of the New England North West Business Chamber, helping establish the region within the Business NSW network. He also leads the Regional Presidents for Business NSW and has mentored hundreds of business owners, making a lasting impact across the region. This award recognises his significant and enduring contribution to the New England North West community.
Neil Druce
Through his entrepreneurial spirit and community engagement, Neil has played a pivotal role in enhancing the economic and cultural landscape of the Riverina region. As the founder and Managing Director of the Junee Licorice and Chocolate Factory, he transformed a historic 1935 flour mill in Junee into a thriving business and regional icon that welcomes 150,000 people annually. Beyond his business endeavours, Neil has been actively involved in regional initiatives such as the Canola Trail, Riverina Producers Market, and Growers Hub, all aimed at promoting local agriculture and tourism. He receives this award in recognition of his longstanding dedication to advancing the growth and development of the Riverina Murray region.
