The annual Herd on the Terrace awards, a unique Perth business tradition, have once again identified the standout performers and influential figures in Western Australia's corporate and political landscape for 2024. The awards, presented by the WA Club, use the playful metaphor of 'bulls' to honour those who have shown exceptional strength, impact, and leadership over the past year.
Who Made the Prestigious 'Bulls' List?
This year's list of notable 'bulls' features a powerful mix of mining magnates, financial leaders, industrialists, and senior politicians. Chris Ellison, the managing director of Mineral Resources (MinRes), was recognised for his company's remarkable growth and ambitious expansion plans. Under Ellison's leadership, MinRes has solidified its position as a major force in the mining and mining services sector.
In a significant nod to the national financial stage, Michele Bullock, the Governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia, was also named. Her inclusion reflects the critical role of monetary policy and economic stewardship, which has profound effects on WA's resource-driven economy and the broader business community.
The list also featured Sanjeev Gupta, the executive chairman of GFG Alliance, which owns the Whyalla steelworks and various mining and energy assets. His recognition comes as his business empire continues its complex restructuring efforts. On the political front, Rita Saffioti, WA's Deputy Premier and Minister for Transport, was honoured for her central role in overseeing the state's massive infrastructure pipeline, including major transport projects.
The Significance of the Herd Tradition
The Herd on the Terrace awards are more than just a light-hearted event. They serve as a barometer of influence and success within the Western Australian context. The ceremony is inspired by the 'Charging Bull' statue located outside the WA Club on St Georges Terrace, Perth's premier business address. Selecting the year's 'bulls' involves assessing contributions to economic growth, strategic vision, and resilience.
The awards highlight the interconnectedness of WA's key industries—mining, finance, government, and industrial production. By honouring leaders from these diverse fields, the event paints a comprehensive picture of the forces currently shaping the state's prosperity and future direction.
Reflecting a State of Contrasts and Challenges
The 2024 honourees operate in an environment of both opportunity and significant challenge. While the mining sector remains robust, leaders like Ellison and Gupta navigate fluctuating commodity prices, global demand shifts, and the pressing transition towards sustainable energy. For policymakers like Bullock and Saffioti, the balancing act involves managing economic growth, inflation, and the delivery of essential services and infrastructure for a growing population.
The recognition of these individuals underscores the critical decisions being made in boardrooms and government offices that will determine WA's economic trajectory. Their performance directly impacts investment, employment, and the state's competitive standing on the national and international stage.
In essence, the Herd on the Terrace awards provide a snapshot of the confidence and key drivers in Perth's business community. The naming of Ellison, Bullock, Gupta, and Saffioti as the leading 'bulls' of 2024 confirms their pivotal roles in steering Western Australia through a period of continued evolution and global uncertainty.
