Judges Report

The judging team would like to congratulate all award recipients and their teams for being successful in this year’s exciting and challenging competition.

The outstanding categories in 2009 were the Carter Holt Harvey Sustainability Award and the Amcor Innovation Award, where entry numbers were substantially higher than in previous years. Environmental concern across the product sectors was very evident with a lot of work being done in weight and carbon footprint reduction as well as consumer awareness programs.

There was also strong competition in the Huhtamaki Brand Design Award. As one of the major criteria for this award is “redesign”, the judges have suggested that future entry requirements should include the submission of an example of the old design to demonstrate the real enhancements achieved. Within the Huhtamaki Brand Design Award and the MWV Family of Packages Award categories it was encouraging to see the work being done to increase the image and integrity of Private Label products.

The judges took particular note of the input from designers who are bringing a more sophisticated and international feel through imaginative design. This has been well presented with excellent reproduction and quality in print.

As a result of the changes to the entry form for this year’s competition, the major claims about the entries were much more accessible.

On behalf of all the judges I would like to thank Jess Brodie for her excellent organisation of the show; the set up and layout of the entries for judging and for her always friendly support and input throughout the three days of work.

My personal thanks go to my fellow judges who bring a broad range of experience across packaging development, design, technical, environmental and marketing disciplines which are required to assess and award meaningful Awards for the Australian Packaging Industry.

I urge all winners to take every opportunity to use the “bragging rights” in the form of the 2009 APA logo on their packaging and in their marketing program to promote their success and to help promote public awareness of quality Australian packaging.

Finally, I would like to thank all of our sponsors for their continuing support. They make this competition possible.

Bill Seppelt
Senior Judge
2009 Australian Packaging Awards