The AIRAH south Australian state Awards 2026
Recognising South Australia’s HVAC&R industry
AIRAH’s South Australian State Awards recognise SA’s HVAC&R building services industry. Join us in celebrating excellence and achievement across the sector! Our annual gala dinner is the opportunity to celebrate the industry’s high achievers, stand-out projects, and ground-breaking research.
For any enquiries please contact awards@airah.org.au.
EVENT DETAILS
Venue: Rydges Southpark Adelaide, 1 South Tce, Adelaide, SA
Date: Wednesday, October 21, 2026 – 7.00–10.00pm
Dress code: Cocktail
Tickets: Members: $100, Non-members: $130, Students/Retirees: $80, Table of 10: $850 (Please reach out to awards@airah.org.au to secure)
Special Guest: A Special Guest for the evening – Mani Liddy
We’re delighted to have Mani Liddy join us as our special guest keynote speaker.
Mani Liddy’s journey is a story of resilience, hard work and determination. While working as a refrigeration and air-conditioning mechanic, Mani continued to pursue his football dream, earning an AFL opportunity with Port Adelaide through the 2025 Mid-Season Draft. He made his AFL debut just 18 days after being drafted, achieving a lifelong goal through dedication and perseverance.
However, an injury-riddled 2026 season, including a prolonged battle with a hip injury, ultimately brought his time at Port Adelaide to an end after he was informed, he would not be offered a contract for 2027. Balancing life as a tradie with the demands of elite football, Mani offers an honest perspective on chasing dreams, overcoming adversity and navigating unexpected setbacks.
Finalists
Apprentice of the Year (4th Year Apprentices)
- Max Rudd
- Tom Bowden
- Jessica Oakley – Thorne
- Lachlan Bellen
- Simon Camron
- David Midwinter
- Kaylee Toogood
Excellence in Progress Award – (3rd Year Apprentices)
- Cooper Greening
- Benjamin Shanks
- Aden Williams
Emerging Talent Award – (2nd Year Apprentices)
- Benjamin Morris
- Wilson Barry
- Emmett Dolan
- James Dick
