Carl and Kathryn Quarterman at the 2024 Lord Mayor’s Business Awards. Photo courtesy of Queensland Gaskets

Brisbane, Australia – The Australian Industry & Defence Network (AIDN) is proud to announce that our National Chairperson and the Managing Director of Queensland Gaskets, Carl Quarterman, has been named a finalist for the prestigious Courier-Mail Business Person of the Year at the 2024 Lord Mayor’s Business Awards (LMBA). This recognition highlights Carl’s exceptional leadership and his significant contributions to Australia’s manufacturing and defence sectors.

Celebrating its 19th year, the LMBA is a landmark event that acknowledges the individuals and businesses setting the benchmark in various industries, driving economic growth, and fostering innovation across Brisbane. Known for their high standards, the awards celebrate “risk-takers, change-markers, and disruptors” (BEDA) who are shaping the future of Brisbane and beyond. To be a finalist is a testament to Carl’s dedication to excellence and his commitment to both Queensland Gaskets and the broader defence and manufacturing industries.

Under Carl’s stewardship, Queensland Gaskets has evolved into a leader in precision manufacturing, supplying vital sectors such as defence, aerospace, mining, and transport. His emphasis on quality and innovation has strengthened Queensland Gaskets, highlighted by the integration of ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards, ensuring consistent and reliable production. Carl’s leadership has also seen the successful acquisition of OSAAP Australia, bringing innovative custom foam insert and shadow board technology into the company, enhancing safety, precision, and organisation across industries with complex operational needs.

Carl’s forward-thinking approach doesn’t stop with quality improvements and acquisitions. His commitment to advanced manufacturing has positioned Queensland Gaskets to embrace Industry 4.0 principles, focusing on automation, digitalisation, and sustainable practices that reduce environmental impact. These initiatives underscore Carl’s dedication to fostering a future-focused, innovative, and responsible manufacturing sector.

Beyond his achievements at Queensland Gaskets, Carl’s role as National Chairperson of AIDN has been instrumental in strengthening Australia’s defence industry. His leadership was key in uniting previously independent AIDN state chapters into a cohesive national entity, empowering Australian SMEs in the defence sector with a unified voice. His strategic rebranding of AIDN has enhanced the network’s advocacy efforts, securing critical contracts and strengthening Australia’s sovereign manufacturing capabilities.

This year’s Lord Mayor’s Business Awards finalists include esteemed Brisbane leaders such as Antonia Mercorella (Real Estate Institute of Queensland), Jamie Wilson (Cryptoloc), and category winner Shaun Munday (Place Design Group). Carl’s finalist nomination stands as a testament to his impactful work and innovative leadership.

The AIDN community congratulates Carl on this remarkable achievement, underscoring his dedication to advancing the manufacturing and defence sectors. His recognition is not only a win for Queensland Gaskets but also a milestone for the entire industry.

Congratulations, Carl!