Melbourne, VIC – In a proud moment for the Victorian trades industry, Shane Denes Director of Plumbstruct Industries was named Entrepreneur of the Year at the 2025 Australian Small Business Champion Awards. The ceremony, held on Friday Night at The Star in Sydney, honoured Australia's most dynamic small business leaders across a range of industries.
The award recognises Shane's remarkable journey from apprentice carpenter to the driving force behind one of Victoria's most respected multi-trade businesses, Plumbstruct Industries.
Judges praised Shane's "foundation of continuous learning, skilled craftsmanship, and strong commitment to both team and community," noting his rare ability to combine technical excellence with people-first leadership.
From humble beginnings, Shane completed dual apprenticeships in carpentry and plumbing, earned an Unlimited Domestic Building Licence, and founded Plumbstruct Industries in 2015. His business now delivers custom renovation, plumbing, and building services across Melbourne, with a reputation for tackling complex jobs other companies won't touch.
Shane's entrepreneurial journey has been driven by a desire to raise the standard of workmanship in the building industry and mentor the next generation of tradies. He has trained six apprentices to date—offering not just trade skills but real mentorship in business ethics, communication, and pride in their craft.
Despite suffering a stroke in 2023, Shane's determination never wavered. His leadership has continued to inspire his team and reinforce Plumbstruct Industries reputation for integrity, innovation, and excellence.
"This award isn't just mine," Shane said in his acceptance speech. "It's a reflection of the values we bring to our work every day. Investing in and supporting young people to be their best creates loyalty and builds a culture where everyone feels valued, capable, and proud of the work they do."
Shane's victory builds on a stellar track record for Plumbstruct Industries, who last year took home Best Boss and Best Apprentice at the Tradies in Business Awards, and were named Australian Small Business Champion in the Home Builder/Renovations category in 2024.
Key Facts:
Winner: Entrepreneur of the Year – 2025 Australian Small Business Champion Awards
Judges' Commendation: "From apprentice to business owner, Shane has built his company on a foundation of continuous learning, skilled craftsmanship, and a strong commitment to both team and community."
Founder of Plumbstruct Industries, an award-winning, multi-trade building company in Melbourne
Dual-qualified in Carpentry and Plumbing, with an Unlimited Domestic Building Licence
Mentor to six apprentices, with a strong focus on professional development and wellbeing
Community-first leadership, known for finding creative solutions where others say "it can't be done"
2024 Winner: Australian Small Business Champion – Home Builder/Renovations Category
2023–24 Winner: Best Boss and Best Apprentice, Tradies in Business Awards
About us:
Plumbstruct Industries delivers personalised, trustworthy service that offers refined craftsmanship from experienced, qualified and licensed professionals. The team at Plumbstruct Industries take pride in their workmanship and are dedicated to creating the most innovative solutions to meet all their customers needs.
