The Out of Home (OOH) sector paused to celebrate its brightest talent last night at the 2025 Outdoor Media Association (OMA) Industry Awards, held at Crown Sydney.
Described as a night of energy, recognition and camaraderie, the event highlighted the professionals whose creativity, innovation and dedication continue to elevate the Out of Home industry in Australia.
This year saw over 90 nominations across 15 categories, reflecting both the momentum and depth of talent within the OMA membership.
“The atmosphere at Crown last night was electric. The Industry Awards are a rare moment for Out of Home to hit pause, come together, and celebrate our people. Congratulations to all our winners and finalists whose passion and creativity keeps our industry moving forward,” said OMA CEO Elizabeth McIntyre.
Among the evening’s most poignant moments was the induction of Steve O’Connor, former CEO of JCDecaux, and the late Keith Forbes, formerly of Buckle Brothers, into the OMA Hall of Fame.
“Both are incredibly deserving, having contributed so much to the Out of Home industry. The moving tributes from industry stalwarts last night are a testament to the strength of their legacy, one that continues to shape what we see today,” McIntyre added.
Judging was carried out by a respected panel of industry leaders: Adam Cadwallader (Motio), Brad Bishopp (Bishopp), Cathy O’Connor (oOh!media), Charles Parry-Okeden (OMA and MOVE), Ged Hart (Total Outdoor Media), Kirrily Hirst (GoTransit), and Kirsty Dollisson (TorchMedia).
2025 OMA Industry Award winners
Emerging Leader Award
Alex Hobbs – oOh!media
OMA Industry Award
Michael Cali – oOh!media
Excellence in Innovation Award
Sabarish Chirakkal – VMO
Outstanding Service Award
NSW | Adam Cadwallader – Motio
NSW | Jason Bell – oOh!media
QLD | Chris Tyquin – goa Billboards
VIC | Danielle Cameron – VMO
SA | Mark Williams – oOh!media
WA | Phil Dada – GoTransit Media Group
Rising Star Award
NSW | Brendan Murphy – Motio
QLD | Samantha Shakspeare – Bishopp Outdoor Advertising
VIC | Kate Sproule – oOh!media
SA | Maddison Caputo – oOh!media
WA | Dominic Driscoll – oOh!media
Excellence in Design & Construction
The Icon (Melbourne) – JCDecaux & Hanlon Industries
Excellence in Field Work & WHS
Fernando Alfeirao – QMS Media
Hall of Fame Inductees
Keith Forbes (posthumous)
Steve O’Connor (former CEO, JCDecaux)