It was a standout night for Contact Group at the 2026 NECA Excellence Awards in Hobart, where the team was recognised with four awards and one high commendation — a fitting reflection of the projects, people and culture that define our business.
Around 200 people from across Tasmania’s electrical industry came together for the occasion, which celebrates innovation, safety and excellence across the state. A huge thank you to everyone who represented Contact Group, and congratulations to NECA Executive Director Ben Shaw and State President Dion Frame on a wonderful event.
Data & Communications Excellence Award — Bridgewater Bridge ITS & CCTV Project
Contact Group was recognised for delivering the Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) and CCTV package for the Bridgewater Bridge — Tasmania’s largest-ever infrastructure project. Our work included installing over 42,000 metres of cabling, Variable Message Signs, Variable Speed Limit Signs, lane management systems, vehicle detection technology and 38 CCTV cameras, all integrated with traffic management centres to support real-time road monitoring. Delivered within tight timeframes and alongside multiple contractors, the project presented several challenges, including delays outside of our control. Despite this, our team successfully delivered a cutting-edge solution that will enhance safety and traffic efficiency for Tasmanian commuters for years to come. The project also earned a Highly Commended in the Commercial Small category — a testament to the technical skill and teamwork behind its delivery.
WHS Excellence in Action — Apprentice Training Boards
Contact Group has developed bespoke electrical training boards to address one of the industry’s most pressing workplace health and safety challenges — preparing apprentices for live site work. Built entirely in-house, the boards include a freestanding electrical circuit board — replicating real lighting, power, and switching circuits with a fault box for diagnostic practice — and a dedicated fire safety training board. The Training boards allow apprentices to build speed, accuracy, and confidence in a controlled environment before entering high-pressure worksites. The initiative reflects Contact Group’s commitment to developing safer, better-prepared electricians — protecting apprentices, supervising tradespeople, clients, and the Tasmanian public.
Leaders in Diversity Award — Business Excellence
Contact Group was also recognised for our ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion across the business. In just five years, Contact Group has grown its female workforce by 36 percent, and its female technicians from two to eight. But the numbers only tell part of the story. Through Tools Down forums, the NECA TAS Women in Electro Advisory, Diversity and Inclusion workshops, participation in the federally funded Gender Equity Works project, and the active championing of female role models, Contact Group is building a workplace — and an industry — where everyone belongs.
Women in Energy Award — Annah Fromberg
Congratulations also to our own Annah Fromberg, recognised individually with the Women in Energy Award for her contribution to the industry.
Congratulations also to our Launceston and Burnie based electricians Kye Jackson and Callum Butler, who were both finalists in the Apprentice of the Year Awards — a highly competitive category where simply being nominated is a real achievement.
These awards are a reflection of the work every one of our people does every day — the standards you uphold, the projects you deliver, and the culture you build. Congratulations, and thank you to everyone who made this year’s results possible.
We’d like to extend a special thank you to NECA Tasmania and to Deputy Premier Guy Barnett for attending and supporting the occasion. Thank you also to the event’s generous sponsors — Clipsal Schneider, MMEM, EWM Hobart, D&W, and The GO Company — whose support makes these awards possible each year.
