Your nominations are in! Meet the first group of finalists in the SALIFE Awards, presented by Brand South Australia.

One of the highlights of running the SALIFE Awards, presented by Brand South Australia, is seeing the love and respect people have for the people, companies and brands they nominate.

This year, we were excited by the sheer number of nominations coming in from you, the public, and the inclusion of so many fresh nominees.

The 14 category winners will be announced on December 4 at a glittering awards ceremony at The Piccadilly in North Adelaide – with tickets going on sale October 28.

Until then, let us introduce you to this year’s nominees…

Brand of the Year finalists, presented by Brand South Australia

An iconic Australian brand, Bickfords is celebrating its 150th anniversary – a remarkable milestone honouring the company’s commitment to tradition and innovation. Established in 1874 by William and Anne Bickford, who founded an apothecary on Hindley Street, Bickford’s began with a focus on quality, care and craftsmanship.

The brand has now grown into a global sensation, exporting its distinctive Australian flavours to over 45 countries worldwide, firmly establishing South Australia on the world stage.

A unique, highly entrepreneurial not-for-profit organisation, JamFactory is supported by the state government and recognised globally as a centre for excellence. Its purpose-built studios in Adelaide’s West End and Seppeltsfield, Barossa Valley house specialist facilities in ceramics, glass, furniture, and jewellery & metalwork, and provide design and production services, short courses and an intensive two-year career development program for talented emerging professionals.

Since its establishment, JamFactory has nurtured local talent and attracted outstanding artists and designers from Australia-wide and overseas. Many of these talented people have subsequently chosen to stay in South Australia to contribute to the culture and economy of the state.

Thomas Foods International (TFI) has grown from a modest two-person operation into Australia’s largest 100% family-owned and operated red meat processor. Still proudly headquartered in South Australia, TFI has expanded its footprint to now employ over 3,000 people with over 20 offices and facilities in nine countries. This all supports TFI to export Australian beef, lamb and goat to over 85 countries.

TFI’s success lies in its ability to adapt to market demands while remaining rooted in the values of its founding family and it continues to set industry standards, not only for quality, but also for innovation in technology and animal welfare.

SA Home of the Year finalists, presented by South Pacific Aluminium Doors and Windows

BTF Constructions, Esplanade Residence

With the build by BTF Constructions and architectural design by Arkvale, Esplanade Residence is pure inner city living, but located right on the beachfront. Showcasing superior design and craftsmanship, the 560sqm home is situated over two levels and capitalises on its location with breathtaking views at every opportunity. The home includes courtyard living areas on the southern and northern sides, a jet pool and Abundant windows and doors mean it’s bathed in natural light all day long and both sunrise and sunset can be enjoyed from this home.

Glasshouse Projects, Kersbrook

Glasshouse Projects aim for ‘a little less ordinary’, creating truly unique residential homes that reflect the families they serve, their distinct personalities, and the geographical sites they inhabit.

The Kersbrook Estate project exemplifies how modern design can embrace and enhance its natural surroundings, creating a residence that is both awe-inspiring and deeply connected. The new build encompasses 786sqm of contemporary living, with two living spaces, art studio, five bedrooms, office space, four bathrooms, cellar, entertainment room, patios, pool and stables.

Regent Homes, Kamali House

Regent Homes‘ modern mid-century masterpiece in Wattle Park maximises usable land on a sloping block. Externally, the home boasts striking Western Red Cedar eaves, matte black Colorbond cladding, honed concrete blockwork, commercial windows and doors, and a dramatic 6m high entry. Inside, polished concrete floors, soaring raked ceilings with highlight windows, and stunning bespoke joinery await. This 470sqm home includes four bedrooms, two spacious living areas, three wet areas, and a seamlessly integrated outdoor living space.

Regent Homes designs reflect the beauty and spirit of our state, creating homes that honour the way we live.

Sustainability Award finalists, presented by Humanee

OrganicBox provides certified organic produce and products for health and wellness, making certified organic food accessible to all, while prioritising sustainability at every step of the process. Vanessa Comley and Jason Smyth focus on educating consumers about the real difference between organic and certified organic – with certification, they guarantee that their food meets the highest standards of certification, food safety and with the least amount of impact to the environment.

They also aim to demonstrate the importance of sustainable farming practices. As certified organic and biodynamic farmers, they respect and care for the soil and environment, practising crop rotation, composting and the use of green manure crops to maintain soil fertility naturally.

While Australia battles with its 7.6 million tonnes of food waste each year, the silent fashion waste crisis is just as devastating, with 6000 kilograms tossed into landfill every 10 minutes. Eli Doyle began Plus One by pure accident – she was just a girl with a passion for fashion trying to navigate her way through the joys of ‘dressing the bump’ while pregnant with her son.

Plus One Dress Hire is a game-changer, proving that you can be fashion-forward while being kind to the planet. We do not need to own every piece of clothing we wear, and fashion can be fabulous without being wasteful.

Started by Susan Mickan, Vitis V is committed to simplicity, respect for nature and science. The company produces just one product, Vitis V Face TonIQ, which replaces 10+ skincare products.

With every aspect of Vitis V crafted with nature and sustainability in mind, Vitis V is built on the link between science, function of skin and the regenerative power of nature. The company lives by ethical values, testing its products on staff and other human friends, not animals. Vitis V is only plants and contains no animal products or animal by-products. Vitis V doesn’t produce any toxic waste in its production process and uses solar generated electricity.

Luxury Experience finalists

Parcoola Retreats has been inspired by owners Lauren and Michael Ward’s own cherished memories and deep connection to the Murray River, its surroundings, and the local community.

Their vision was clear: to create a sanctuary where guests could fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Murray River, while enjoying the comfort and luxury of thoughtfully designed accommodations. They sought to blend nature’s simplicity with refined finishes, creating a space where visitors could unwind, reconnect and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.

Quercus Truffles is a small family run business based in the Piccadilly Valley of the Adelaide Hills. Adhering to organic farming practices, they produce and distribute the highest quality Perigord Black Truffles to Adelaide best restaurants, including Mount Lofty House, Sequoia Lodge, LVN, Ondeen and Topiary.

Quercus Truffles has also developed complementary guest experiences – truffle hunt tours and full day luxury experiences, which include a hunt and degustation lunch. With the truffle season being short, lasting just three glorious months during winter, the company is also exploring export opportunities for the premium European market during their summer when local truffles aren’t available.

Established by Gabi and Jim Bungey, Saltbush Farm features a luxury farmhouse situated on one of the most beautiful landscapes at the tip of the Fleurieu Peninsula at Cape Jervis. The architecturally designed home sits atop 100 acres of rural land, giving unobstructed views of Kangaroo Island and surrounds. Saltbush Farm allows guests to disconnect from the bright city lights, enjoy this remote gem and immerse themselves in the simplicity of country living.

The location is a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts, with an abundance of native wildlife, including kangaroos and a diverse array of birds on the doorstep. Guests can witness breathtaking sunsets over the ocean and awaken to the beauty of sunrises illuminating the gum trees and the serene native bush.

Designer: Fashion & Beauty finalists, presented by Bell & Brunt

Blakesby Hats is the only traditional hatter in South Australia and it leads the field nationally with unparalleled knowledge and experience. Blake Canham-Bennett, the man behind the brand, uses the tried-and-true traditional handmade techniques and practices of the last century, together with the highest quality materials and natural fibres.

Blake is a strong supporter of the slow fashion movement and Blakesby Hats has been featured in SALIFE, Esquire, The Financial Times and Chap Magazine. He has made hats for style icons, amazing photographers, inked-up tattoo artists, internationally renowned jazz bandleaders and archaeologists, palaeontologists and Egyptologists, who have all worn their hats in the field.

Having made a name for itself on the red carpet, on television and at the races, Cristina Tridente’s couture+love+madness label is turning heads with its couture bridal wear.

The label recently created custom pieces for The Veronicas for their American tour, has worked with Amy Shark many times, and dressed celebrities including Dannii Minogue, Sophie Monk and Charli XCX.

Emily Riggs had a very clear vision for Iris and Wool when she first started Iris and Wool. It was to create fashionable, timeless merino wool fashions that support the Australian wool industry while also giving back.

The Woolmark-certified brand is proud to be at the forefront of the sustainability narrative in the fashion industry. Small batch production ensures as little waste as possible, while customers receive quality garments that will last a lifetime. For over 6 years now, the label has continued to explore irresistible new spins on classic knitwear style.

Restaurant of the Year finalists, presented by Super Studio

Muni is a fine dining restaurant located in the historic town of Willunga, South Australia. Founded by Mug Chen and Chia Wu, Muni was born from a deep passion for connecting food with community and culture. Mug, a chef with a wealth of international experience, worked in Michelin-starred restaurants in Paris and across Asia, while Chia’s culinary background stems from her roots in Taiwan, where she learned the importance of fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Moving to South Australia, they were captivated by the local produce and the community’s commitment to sustainable farming. This inspired them to create Muni, where the philosophy is not just about creating delicious food but also about building connections – with producers, guests and the land itself. Every dish at Muni reflects a story, whether it’s from the farmers who grew the vegetables or the traditions of Taiwanese and modern Australian cuisine.

Nestled in a heritage property in Verdun, Ondeen has established itself as an innovative culinary destination. The focus on quiet luxury, seasonal dining and sustainable practices has created a unique experience that resonates with food enthusiasts and casual diners alike.

Co-founders, Deborah Kingsbury and Kane Pollard, believed in a vision for a true ‘farmer-first’ destination that highlighted the work and ethos that goes into producing the best food, drinks and art. From this philosophy, Ondeen was created on a local farm with a beautiful spring-fed dam, with a view to create productive and community gardens, a distillery, teaching and learning experiences, and above all, good food, wellbeing and connection.

 

Restaurant Botanic offers a culinary experience that transcends traditional fine dining, immersing guests in an experience that celebrates the rich biodiversity of South Australia and the living museum that surrounds the venue. Nestled within the 51-hectare Adelaide Botanic Garden, the restaurant stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of time, culture, nature and gastronomy, where the boundaries between the garden and the dining room are almost imperceptible. 

Executive Chef, Jamie Musgrave, brings a wealth of experience and a profound understanding of native  ingredients, honed through extensive collaboration with Aboriginal communities and foraging expeditions across diverse Australian landscapes. This expertise allows Restaurant Botanic to incorporate rare and often overlooked native ingredients into the menu, creating dishes that are narratives of our land and culture.

The winners of the SALIFE Awards, presented by Brand South Australia, will be announced on December 4. Tickets to the awards ceremony go on sale October 28.