Every year, as we approach the home stretch, one particular “X word” starts to dominate our conversations — Xmas. And while the season brings with it the usual rush of jobs to finish, clients to satisfy, and projects to close, it also brings something truly valuable to our industry: the chance to come together.

For AWCI Australia, our Christmas parties aren’t just social events on the calendar. They represent one of the most important traditions any association can offer — an opportunity to build community, reflect on the year that’s been, and look ahead to what we will achieve together. Christmas is not the end of the year; it’s a bridge between what we’ve completed and the future we are creating as one united industry.

This year, I’m proud to announce that our AWCI Christmas Parties will be held in every state — a true national celebration. Whether you’re a contractor, supplier, apprentice, manufacturer, or partner, these events are designed for members, by members, and each one reflects the spirit of our local communities while bringing us together as a national family.

Why Christmas Parties Matter to an Industry Like Ours

In the wall and ceiling industry, most of us work under pressure — tight margins, safety requirements, compliance, deadlines, and problem-solving on the fly. It’s easy to move from one project to the next without pausing to recognise the people who make it all happen.

But Christmas parties change that.

They create space to:

• reconnect with colleagues and peers

• meet new members and new businesses

• celebrate apprentices and future leaders

• highlight the achievements of our state and national communities

• share stories, laughs, and lessons from the year

Associations exist to bring people together, and our Christmas gatherings are one of the best expressions of that mission. It’s where friendships form, partnerships strengthen, and collaboration grows. I have seen countless business relationships start at these events — a supplier meeting a builder for the first time, or contractors discovering they share the same challenges and solutions.

This is community in action.

A Year Worth Celebrating

In 2025, we’ve achieved more together than ever before. We launched new initiatives, strengthened national alignment, showcased excellence across the country, and made significant progress on our future training and apprenticeship agenda. We delivered successful events and networking opportunities, grew our social media engagement, developed new programs for members, and amplified the visibility of our trade at both state and national levels.

Most importantly, membership culture is changing — and for the better.

You, our members, are engaging more, sharing more, and building the strong industry voice that the sector deserves. Our Christmas parties are a chance to acknowledge that collective effort. They are a moment for every state to recognise not just the end of a busy year, but the momentum we are carrying into the next.

What You Can Expect This Year

Every state committee has taken ownership of shaping its own Xmas event — and that’s what makes them special. No two gatherings look the same, because each reflects local character, relationships, and traditions. Some will be casual and outdoors, others more formal; some with entertainment, others with awards or special announcements.

But across all states, you can expect three things:

1. A Warm Welcome

These aren’t corporate events — they’re community events. Whether you’re new to AWCI or a long-time supporter, you will be welcomed warmly. Our committees go out of their way to make sure everyone is included.

2. Industry Connection

You’ll meet people who understand the challenges of your day-to day work. You’ll talk to people who’ve solved problems you’re facing—or who are facing the same ones. This is networking without the pressure.

3. A Look at 2026

Each state event will include updates on our future strategy, major initiatives, national developments, and what members can look forward to next year, including the Cairns Conference in August 2026 and the growing line-up of training, events, and programs.

A Personal Invitation From Me

My message to every member is simple:

Please attend your state Christmas party.

Bring your team.

Bring your apprentices.

Bring your partner if you’d like.

These events are created for you, and your presence strengthens our entire industry. This Year I can confirm I will attend the Queensland event and have already hosted the NSW Xmas brunch, and I look forward to shaking hands, listening to your ideas, hearing your stories, and celebrating the year we’ve had.

There are very few associations where the CEO is as accessible and engaged as I am — through events, emails, mobile, and my social platforms. That’s intentional. Community cannot be built from a distance. It grows through conversation, genuine relationships, and shared experiences — exactly what our Christmas parties are designed for.

Looking Ahead — Together

2026 will be a defining year for AWCI Australia. With nationalisation progressing, training pathways expanding, stronger partnerships forming, and a clearer industry voice emerging, we are building a community that is respected, future-focused, and united.

Our Christmas parties are the first stepping stone into that new year. They bring people closer, spark collaboration, and remind us why this industry is stronger when it stands together.

So, let’s close 2025 the right way — with celebration, connection, and gratitude for each other.

I can’t wait to see you there.