The Visual Media Association (VMA) has awarded David Currie the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 National Print Awards, recognising his outstanding contribution to Australia's print and visual media industry.
Presented at the 41st National Print Awards in Brisbane on 4 June, the Lifetime Achievement Award is the industry's highest individual honour, recognising professionals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, integrity, mentorship and sustained contribution over 35 years or more.
The award acknowledges individuals whose influence extends beyond their own organisations to strengthen the broader industry, support future generations and help shape the long-term success of Australian print.
Kellie Northwood, chief executive officer of the VMA, said Currie exemplifies the qualities the Lifetime Achievement Award was established to recognise.
“The Lifetime Achievement Award is about legacy. It honours those who have invested decades into strengthening our industry, from guiding teams and mentoring emerging leaders to championing innovation through periods of significant change,” Northwood said.
“David's career reflects the qualities that define great industry leaders – resilience, integrity, innovation and an unwavering commitment to people. Through periods of economic uncertainty, technological change and industry transformation, he continued to invest in relationships, embrace new ideas and support the continued growth and evolution of Australian print.”
Over more than five decades in the industry, Currie has established himself as one of Australian print's most respected leaders.
From joining the family business in an entry-level role to leading its growth through periods of economic uncertainty and industry transformation, Currie built a reputation for resilience, determination and an unwavering commitment to customers and employees alike.
Currie played a pivotal role in advancing the technological capability of Australia's print industry, becoming one of the first major importers and resellers of Japanese printing technology into the Australian market at a time when European equipment dominated the sector.
His willingness to embrace innovation and challenge conventional thinking helped expand opportunities for Australian printers and reshape the competitive landscape of the industry.
Throughout his career, Currie built relationships that extended far beyond commercial transactions. Many customer, supplier and reseller partnerships established decades ago remain active today, reflecting a business philosophy built on trust, loyalty, fairness and long-term commitment.
He was also an early advocate for emerging technologies, including digital print platforms such as the Indigo Press, recognising their potential long before they became mainstream within the Australian market.
“This award recognises individuals whose impact extends well beyond their own business achievements,” Northwood said.
“David has consistently demonstrated the leadership, integrity and commitment that strengthen an industry over the long term. His contribution has supported businesses, employees and industry partners alike, while helping position Australian print for future success.”
The Lifetime Achievement Award forms part of the National Print Awards program, which celebrates excellence across Australia's print, packaging and visual communications sectors and is selected by the VMA Board Directors across all incoming nominations. The process includes alliance with the criteria and Board Director oversight.
“As our industry continues to evolve through technological advancement and generational change, it is important that we recognise those who have helped build the foundations on which we continue to grow,” Northwood continued.
“David's contribution extends far beyond business success. He has helped shape the technological capability of our industry, supported generations of employees and built relationships that have endured for decades. His legacy will continue to influence Australian print for many years to come.”