OZTek Awards

Celebrating the achievements and accomplishments of Australia’s leading Divers and Dive Industry personnel – people who have helped push back the boundaries of knowledge and exploration, and whose efforts lead to the development and use of new diving technologies.

The presentation of the (usually) biennial OZTek Awards is a much-anticipated aspect of OZTek and tin 2025, a simple AWARD CEREMONY will be held at the conclusion of the show on Saturday 14 March. time to be confirmed.
Deserving winners are nominated by the diving public and the final decision is made by the Award Panel from the information and provided.

Industry Recognition Award

To acknowledge diving Industry members whose individual efforts have often had a far-reaching impact on the advancement and growth of diving.

2025 Nominees:

  • Jane Ruckert
  • Liam Allen
  • Darren Mitchell

Previous Recipients are:

  • Rob Cason
  • Dr Simon Mitchell
  • Richard Nicholls
  • Barry Hallett
  • Tony Davis
  • Barry Andrewartha
  • Terry Cummins
  • Col McKenzie
  • Jayne Jenkins
  • Richard Taylor
  • Barry Hallett
  • Richard Evans
  • Jane Bowman
  • David Strike – 2019
  • Gareth Lock – 2022

Outstanding Achievement Award

To recognise deserving individuals whose achievements embody the spirit of diving advancement, adventure, exploration and teamwork.

2025 Nominees:

  • Andrew Oakeley
  • Dr Matt Carter
  • John Garvin

Media Excellence Award

For Ongoing Promotion of Ocean Awareness and the Diving Industry.
Note: This award is only given in outstanding circumstances

2025 Nominees:

  • John Garvin
  • Nays Baghai

Previous Recipients are:

  • Michael Menduno
  • Jill Heinerth
  • Richard Vevers
  • Matt Carter – 2019
  • Dave Moran – 2022
  • Barry Andrewartha & Belinda Barnes – 2022

Lifetime Achievement Award

Recognition for a lifetime of dedication and passion in diving. Thank you!

2025 Nominees:

  • Rodney Fox
  • Lorenz Mäder

Previous Recipients are:

  • Valerie Taylor
  • Keith Gordon – 2022

Technical Diver of The Year Award

For continued outstanding achievements in underwater exploration (includes elements of teamwork, mentoring and inspiration).

2025 Nominees:

  • Dr Matt Carter
  • William Passos
  • Martin Slater
  • Andrew Oakeley
  • Robin Cuesta note: unfortunately Robin is not Australian nor New Zealander and therefore, whilst nominated, is not eligible

Previous Recipients are:

  • David Apperley
  • Paul Hosie
  • Trevor Jackson
  • Samir Alhafith
  • Craig Challen
  • Sandy Varin
  • Liam Allen
  • Lance Robb
  • Richard Harris
  • Ryan Kaczkowski – 2019
  • Stephen Fordyce – 2022

EMERGING EXPLORER AWARD

Under 35 years of age.
Acknowledgement of an up-and-coming diver for their contribution to exploration, research or training in the spirit of team work and community. Considerations: Level of diving skill displayed. Role in diving activity (i.e. safety diver, actual explorer etc.), nature of divers’ community attitude (e.g. those who volunteer for everything in order to dive).

2025 Nominees:

  • Brendan Moore Note: unfortunately Brendan is a bit too old and is not eligible
  • Corey Auld
  • Kewin Lorenzen – note: unfortunately Kewin is not Australian nor New Zealander and therefore, whilst nominated, is not eligible

Previous Recipients are:

  • Tom Crisp
  • Stephen Fordyce – 2019