A week ago, our team walked into the Master Painters Gala not knowing how the night would unfold. What started as a simple evening of recognition became a defining moment in our journey — a reflection of years of grit, growth, and craftsmanship.
This isn't just a story about winning awards; it's about transformation, teamwork, and what happens when you commit to your craft with everything you have.
Setting the Scene
Exactly one week ago tonight, we gathered for the Master Painters Gala Awards celebration.
We'd all worked that day — some of us still rushing around the shops, scrambling for the final pieces of our outfits. When shoes started breaking at the last minute, we just laughed and decided to go as ourselves. No need to impress anyone — we're creatives, after all. The goal was simply to show up as our best, most authentic selves.
Having gone through Cadre Camp and Unbreakable multiple times, I knew how the mind can become fuzzy on the day — how simple logistics can suddenly feel like mountains to climb. So, I had my suit tailored and ready to go. No need to think, no need to plan — just show up.
That wasn't the old me. In the past, I'd be rushed, stressed, and on edge. This time, I felt different. Grounded. Ready.
The Drive Down
We carpooled together in our collaboration partner's car — Aaron from Fine & Fast Finishes. On the drive down, we shared our expectations.
I wasn't excited in the way I used to be before a sports game or big event. I'd never really worn a suit outside of weddings, and I'd never stood on stage in front of 400+ of my peers. But the feeling wasn't nerves — it was calm, collected confidence.
Deep down, I knew we'd done the work. We'd put in the hours. Perfected our craft. Delivered results and left our clients glowing. There was nothing left to do but sit back and enjoy the spoils of our effort. The scorecards were tallied; the game was over.
I knew our submissions represented our very best within the budgets and timeframes we had. It was going to be an honest reflection of our current level.
Either we'd walk away in awe of the competition - inspired to push further — or we'd return as champions, carrying the responsibility to uplift, inspire, and set new standards.
There was no doubt in me that we'd win something.
I felt most confident about Cordia, a new reno in the $25k category — all spray-finished in a kitchen-grade imported Italian coating to an impeccable standard.
My second pick was Wonga, a full interior and exterior repaint with multiple colours, a 2K kitchen refinish, and micro cement benchtops — all touched up to perfection.
We parked at the casino, walked in just as the doors were closing, and found our seats. Perfect timing, perfect flow.
Opening Ceremony
The night opened with a beautiful acknowledgment of Indigenous culture and respect for the land — brief but powerful. I was delighted to see the celebration pay reverence to the elements.
The previous year had been dedicated to Water, this year to Fire. Unknowingly, I had chosen a blue suit and a burnt orange tie - passion and flow. I smiled. I'm in. Hooked. Let's go!
The First Inning
The event was broken into four innings, seven categories each. We didn't go up once in the first inning.
To make it sting, Cordia's category had already passed. I sat there, perplexed — that was supposed to be a sure thing. My mind started racing, wanting to know what kind of competition had beaten us.
When the inning ended, Dad and I slipped out for a coffee down the street, to get some air and to walk it off. One of five projects down, and not a single award yet.
We came back to a fire-twirling performance and glowing light suits, but my mind wasn't in it.
Then I bumped into my good friend Keav from KSP. He listened, let me vent, and reminded me of something vital — I'd been sucked into my ego trap.
He was right. I was among good, heart centered company.
Momentum Shifts
Second inning — we finally get called as a finalist. I head to the stage. We don't win.
Another near miss.
Returning to the table, the team is ecstatic. I'm numb.
Cordia, gone. Wonga, gone. Just one runner-up so far.
Then, the tide turns.
Third inning — Flaxton Restoration gets called as a finalist for Interior Repaint 100K. That feels good. As I return to the table, Wonga gets announced for another finalist — Interior Repaint 25K.
That's three frames in the bag. The energy's shifting.
One inning to go. I thought, Wouldn't it be amazing to end with six — one for each team member to hold in the photo?
Straight away, we get called up for Artistic Finish. While waiting in line, another contender asked what I entered.
As our wall flashed onto the big screen, I heard gasps from the crowd. What a feeling. That's leadership.
Applause erupted — and we took the win. Our first.
Five frames now.
As I return to the table, they tell me to stay near the stage. Up again. Unreal. Only one more needed for everyone to hold one.
This next one's for Flaxton Restoration. I knew instantly who deserved it — Dan.
His first year painting. His first job leading. He spent 40% of the total project hours there.
I grabbed him from the table and sent him up.
The screen flashed: "WINNER — Crafted Finishes."
The room went wild. First year painting. First job leading. Winner for Restoration.
We now had seven frames. Our table was buzzing — alive with joy and disbelief.
Judges' Choice
The room went silent. The final two awards were about to be revealed — Overall Winner and Judges' Choice.
Fire Ignites
This was the moment everything came together. The spark we'd been building toward for years finally became fire.
Reflections
This night wasn't just about winning awards. It was about recognizing what we'd built together as a team. Every late night, every challenging project, every moment of learning — it all led to this.
The Road Ahead
Winning awards is wonderful, but it's just the beginning. We're committed to continuing our journey of craftsmanship excellence, pushing boundaries, and creating work that stands the test of time.
Thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey — our clients, our team, our families. This fire is just getting started.