Judging Process
Judging Process
THE JUDGING PROCESS
At Banksia, we hold the principles of integrity, transparency, and fairness in the highest regard when it comes to our judging process. We believe that every entry deserves a fair and thorough assessment, conducted by our esteemed panel of expert judges who bring their extensive knowledge and experience to the table. Through careful evaluation, constructive feedback, and rigorous discussions, we strive to ensure that each submission receives equal consideration.
For more in depth information about the judging process, please download an Entry Kit.
ROUND 1
JUDGING
Our expert panel of Judges read, score and give feedback on all entries based on criteria. The scores will indicate a shortlist of entries that will proceed to personal online interviews.
ROUND 2
JUDGING
Our panel of judges will conduct interviews with each of the shortlisted entries. Each entrant will have a 10 minute interview. Judges will then decide on the finalists and winners.
AWARDS GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE REVIEW
The Award Governance Committee carefully considers the comments and scores provided by the judges to ensure transparency and fairness in the final selection of finalists and winners.
WE GET IT.
IT’S NOT ALWAYS ABOUT WINNING!
IT’S NOT ALWAYS ABOUT WINNING!
If you’re not a winner, all entrants will be provided with comprehensive feedback from our judges. We believe that every entrant can benefit from valuable insights to further enhance their initiatives.
OUR JUDGES
Banksia’s judges are experts in their fields, with their expertise matched to the relevant award category for thorough assessment. To maintain objectivity, judges exclude themselves from judging any entry that may pose a conflict of interest. They generously contribute their time and are highly valued members of the Banksia Foundation, dedicated to promoting environmental excellence in NSW.
Each category has its own panel of judges led by a nominated judge. There are over 30 judges for the NSW awards who are independent to the Banksia board and staff.
Banksia would like to acknowledge our Chair of the Awards Governance Committee, Jo Cain. Her commitment and support is invaluable and ensures that we maintain a viable, efficient and integrated judging process.
On behalf of the Banksia Foundation, we would like to thank the following individuals for giving us their time and providing their expertise to this year’s awards program.
If you would like to join the judging panel, please email [email protected]

Andrea Spencer-Cooke
Angela Crossland
Belinda Cheelingworth
Chris Bourne
David Rowlinson
Edward Cotter
Emma Treadgold
Erandi Samarakoon
Garth Lamb
Izabella Kobylanski
Jack O’Donoghue
Jeff Oatman
Kate Harris
Katherine Featherstone
Laura Hamilton-O’Hara
Liane Rossler
Lucinda Corrigan
Mark Caddey
Marnie Kikken
Monica Richter
Peter Salhani
Robin Mellon
Sue King
Tom Davies
Turlough Guerin
Will Rayward Smith