Hawkridge Entertainment Services Managing Director, Tim Long, was recently announced as VMA Allied Professional of the Year finalist.

The prestigious award honours the individuals whose leadership, service and passion help shape the success of venues, our people and our communities. Whether leading teams through complex operational challenges, delivering outstanding allied support or emerging as the next generation of venue leaders, our finalists represent the very best of our industry.

Proudly sponsored by PBM Safety the Allied Professional of the Year award recognises an allied professional whose work has had a meaningful impact on the venue management industry.

The 2025 finalists are:

• Tim Duncan – Major Venue and Events Partner, St John Ambulance Victoria

• Tim Long – Managing Director, Hawkridge Entertainment Services

• Scott Taylor – Director, Praesidium Risk and Resilience

These individuals exemplify the critical role that allied partners play in supporting safe, innovative and successful venue operations.

Winners are set to be announced at the 2025 Gala Dinner & Awards, part of this year’s Asia-Pacific Venue Industry Congress.

In addition to this award, the VMA also gives ot the following:

Venue Professional of the Year

Proudly sponsored by Ross Video APAC
This award recognises an outstanding public venue management professional for their significant contribution to the sector.

These professionals have demonstrated remarkable leadership, vision, and dedication across all areas of venue operations and development.

Young Achiever of the Year

Proudly sponsored by Momentus Technologies
This award celebrates rising stars under the age of 30 who are already making their mark on the industry.

How we help

Hawkridge Entertainment Services provides a range of services for organisations including strategic analysis, feasibility development and business case writing. We are experts in the development of cultural infrastructure. Some of our recent projects are:

• Roxy Theatre Parramatta Final Business Case
• Parramatta Riverside Theatres Business Case
• Business case for the Wollondilly Performing Arts Centre
• Operational review of the Paranaple Convention Centre

We deliver successful outcomes by finding solutions to complex issues. We listen to stakeholders and complete tasks in the timeframes required.

Other similar projects completed by Hawkridge Entertainment Services are available here.