Five Kingston businesses and one young changemaker have been recognised for their leadership, innovation and commitment to sustainability at the fourth annual Kingston Sustainable Business Awards.
The winners were announced at a gala celebration at Kingston City Hall last Thursday night, bringing together Kingston's business community to celebrate the people and organisations leading the way through innovation, leadership and sustainable business practices.
Mayor Georgina Oxley said this year's winners demonstrated the many different ways businesses can make a difference.
"Congratulations to all of our winners and to every one of our 32 finalists," Cr Oxley said.
"What really stood out this year was the incredible variety of ideas and approaches being used by businesses across Kingston.
"We saw businesses tackling waste and emissions, creating more inclusive spaces, developing innovative products and finding ways to make a positive difference in the community.
"These awards are about recognising that sustainability isn't just one thing; it can be about the way you run your business, the products you create, the people you employ or the impact you have in your community.
"Our winners are showing that doing things differently can deliver real environmental, social and economic benefits, and I'm incredibly proud that we can celebrate that work here in Kingston.
"I also want to congratulate all of our finalists. Getting to that stage is a fantastic achievement, and I hope their stories inspire even more local businesses to think about the positive difference they can make."
The 2026 Kingston Sustainable Business Awards winners are:
Smarter Waste & Recycling Solutions – Pianos Recycled
Pianos Recycled is a circular-economy social enterprise dedicated to keeping unwanted pianos out of landfill. More than 740 pianos have been processed, with materials reused by makers, hobbyists and community groups, while others are transformed into new products by local artisans. Its schools program has also helped rehome more than 100 pianos.
Diversity & Inclusion – Kingston Pickleball Centre
Kingston Pickleball Centre has created an inclusive sporting community of more than 1,000 participants, with affordable access, beginner programs, sensory-adapted sessions and multi-generational play. Its welcoming approach brings together people of different ages, backgrounds, identities and abilities, while supporting local charities, schools and community groups.
Small & Medium Business Leadership – WE-EF Lighting
WE-EF Lighting Australia & New Zealand has embedded sustainability across its Braeside operations, including a 99kW solar system, rainwater harvesting, EV charging and smart lighting controls. Its approach has helped deliver a 75 per cent reduction in CO₂ emissions and a 35 per cent improvement in energy efficiency above national standards. This is the second time that WE-EF Lighting has been recognised as a winner at the Kingston Sustainable Business Awards following its win in the Towards Net Zero 2030 category in 2025.
Towards Net Zero 2030 – Moose Toys
Moose Toys is progressing its science-based sustainability targets through renewable energy, lower-emission materials, supply-chain engagement and lower-emission logistics. The family-owned business is working towards a more sustainable future while continuing to develop and distribute its products globally.
Innovative Products & Technology – Soap Aid
Kingston-based charity Soap Aid is turning used hotel and accommodation soap into new hygienic bars rather than sending it to landfill. Its Camp to Community program, developed with major partners including Woollahra, Sodexo and Rio Tinto, is reducing waste while providing essential hygiene products to people experiencing hygiene poverty. This is the second time that Soap Aid has been recognised as a winner at the Kingston Sustainable Business Awards after winning the Waste Reduction and Recycling Solutions category in 2024.
Young Changemakers & Innovators – Kieran McMahon
Kieran McMahon, founder of not-for-profit bicycle shop Brainwave Bikes, has helped rescue more than 9,000 bicycles from landfill and rebuild them into affordable pre-owned bikes. The enterprise also provides training and employment opportunities, with proceeds supporting programs for children living with brain injuries and serious illnesses.
The Kingston Sustainable Business Awards are generously supported by major sponsor Community Bank Parkdale, with category sponsors Up Property and KS Environmental. Independent judging was provided by the Banksia Foundation.
The awards recognise Kingston businesses and individuals demonstrating leadership and innovation across sustainability, while providing an opportunity to share ideas and encourage more businesses to take practical steps towards a more sustainable future.
To find out more about the awards and this year's winners and finalists visit kingston.vic.gov.au/community/events/upcoming-events/sustainable-business-awards.
