Victorian companies that bring our products, produce and expertise to the world – supporting thousands of jobs across the state – have been honoured at the 42nd Governor of Victoria Export Awards (GOVEAs).
Medical technology manufacturer Invetech – which achieved a 53 per cent increase in exports in 2020-21 and secured a major contract with an international diagnostics company specialising in molecular detection of infectious diseases, including COVID-19 – was named Victorian Exporter of the Year.
Gabriela Safrankova from advanced electronics manufacturer Coolon received the Victorian Women in International Business Award for playing a leading role in the company’s ongoing success in Latin America.
Minister for Trade Martin Pakula congratulated the 14 winners at a virtual event alongside the Governor of Victoria, the Honourable Linda Dessau AC, who is patron of the awards.
The prestigious awards cover Victoria’s key export industries, small business, sustainability and emerging exporters and recognise ingenuity, excellence, innovation, creativity and leadership.
Other award winners were OMC International, Hi Form, Deliciou, OET, Cobalt Design, Typsy Group, Packform, Sunpower Renewables, AW Bell, Safescape, Care Essentials and iBuild.
Exports play a critical role in Victoria’s economy, contributing $44 billion annually and helping to support more than 330,000 jobs. Collectively, this year’s award winners export to more than 40 markets.
The Andrews Labor Government has supported exporters affected by the global pandemic through its $15.7 million Export Recovery Package, as well as through the Government’s international network of trade and investment offices, the largest network of any Australian state.
The full list of categories and winners can be found at global.vic.gov.au/govea.
As stated by Minister for Trade Martin Pakula
“Our exporters produce amazing results that put Victoria’s name up in lights around the world and support thousands of jobs at home.”
“These awards honour outstanding achievement and will inspire others to innovate and excel.”
As stated by Invetech president Andreas Knaack
“We are very honoured to receive the award as recognition of our export achievements.”
“Over the last 18 months we have been fortunate to be able to leverage Victorian technology and knowhow for our international clients by creating solutions that detect COVID-19 and support the fight against cancer.”
