A Tasmanian company renowned for safeguarding infrastructure against lightning strikes worldwide has been named the 2025 Tasmanian Exporter of the Year. Lightning Protection International (LPI) received the prestigious award at the 31st Tasmanian Export Awards held in Hobart, marking a significant achievement for the Huntingfield-based manufacturer.
Since its inception in 2002, LPI has expanded its operations to export lightning protection, surge protection, and earthing systems to more than 100 countries. The company’s innovative approach and commitment to quality have earned it a respected reputation globally.
Celebrating Tasmanian Export Excellence
The awards ceremony highlighted the strength of Tasmania’s export sector, which has seen goods and services exports reach an impressive $6.16 billion for the 2023-24 fiscal year. Minister for Small Business, Trade and Consumer Affairs, Guy Barnett, emphasized the significance of these achievements.
“We know that our export sector is thriving with goods and service exports reaching $6.16 billion for 2023-24,” Barnett said. “The awards showcase the impressive breadth of exporting capabilities in Tasmania, recognizing industries across multiple sectors including the creative arts, technology, advanced manufacturing, and food and beverages.”
In addition to the top honor, LPI also secured the Manufacturing and Advanced Materials category award, sponsored by the Tasmanian Minerals, Manufacturing and Energy Council. This recognition underscores LPI’s dedication to advancing scientific innovation in its field.
Diverse Winners Highlight Tasmania’s Export Prowess
This year’s awards attracted 56 submissions across 11 categories, reflecting the diversity and dynamism of Tasmania’s export landscape. Notable winners included Geoneon in the Technologies category, Tasman Sea Salt for Agribusiness, Food and Beverage, and Three Warriors in the Small Business category. National celebrity Sonia Kruger called Three Warriors founder Corbin Halliday on speakerphone, expressing her pride in the tanning product company’s success.
Other winners included ship manufacturer Incat, which won the Sustainability and Green Economy award, and Pasture.io, which took home the Professional Services award. Tasmanian Seaweed Fertilisers was recognized as the Emerging Exporter, while Scootboot won the e-Commerce award. Archipelago Productions, known for the hit Bay of Fires TV show, claimed the Creative Industries award, and Hai Loong Seafood was named Regional Exporter.
Looking Ahead: National Recognition and Economic Impact
All category winners will represent Tasmania at the national Export Awards in Canberra this November, offering them a broader platform to showcase their products and services. The recognition at a national level is expected to further bolster Tasmania’s reputation as a hub of innovation and quality.
Minister Barnett highlighted the broader economic implications of these achievements, noting that enhancing export opportunities for Tasmanian companies will not only strengthen the local economy but also create more job opportunities.
“Helping more Tasmanian companies to export and share our high-quality products and services with the rest of the world will strengthen our economy and create more job opportunities for Tasmanians,” Barnett said.
The success of Lightning Protection International and other award winners underscores the potential for Tasmanian businesses to compete and thrive on the global stage, setting a benchmark for future exporters from the region.
