The Australian grooming industry came together on 28-30 March for the Pet Industry Association Australia (PIAA) Ausgroom 2025, held at Hawkesbury Race Club.
The three-day event attracted groomers, exhibitors, educators, and pet industry professionals from across Australia and overseas, making it one of the most well-attended industry gatherings to date.
Jo Marsden, Grooming Director at the PIAA, said she couldn’t be prouder of the event, saying that the energy, support, and shared passion on display was truly inspiring.
“From world-class competitions and expert-led seminars to product showcases and community networking, the event highlighted the growing professionalism, skill, and camaraderie within the grooming industry.”
A highly respected judging panel included Tamara James, Alicia Fragiadakis, Bonnie Keen, and Randi Sands (USA), who helped elevate the competition’s standard. Stewards Amanda Ensor and Jessica Chard played a key role in ensuring smooth operations while also capturing live content and photography throughout the weekend.
Anthony Ramsay, CEO of PIAA, said the event provides a unique opportunity for Australia’s best groomers to compete, attend professional development seminars and shop with specialist grooming suppliers all in one place.
“The friendships made, and endless networking opportunities are an added bonus. PIAA is proud to be able to provide the platform to showcase the amazing talent our pet grooming sector possesses.”
The seminar program featured industry experts such as Randi Sands (USA), Alicia Fragiadakis (NSW), Tamara James (TAS), Sandra King (King Insurance Services), Esther Goh (Marketing Jar), Glenn Cooke (Canine Evolution), and Donna Lindsay (Heiniger Grooming Australia & New Zealand). Topics covered advanced grooming techniques, business development, branding, and insurance essentials, providing attendees with practical insights.
Ausgroom 2025 was made possible through the support of major sponsors, including Joyzee, Oz Grooming World, and Heiniger. Additional contributions from Botany Bay Imports, Groomer Nation, Petway Petcare, Noah’s Ark Social Media, King Insurance Services, iGroomHub, Pet Industry Association Australia, Central Pet, Delta Grooming Scissors, and Alicia Fragiadakis helped enhance the competition and seminar experience.
A highlight of the weekend was a live grooming demonstration featuring Timothée the pony, whose coat carving showcase became a crowd favourite.
Attendees also enjoyed premium catering from Smokey Joe’s BBQ and Jessica Lee, ensuring they remained fuelled throughout the event.
PIAA extended its gratitude to Hawkesbury Race Club for hosting the event and acknowledged Lisa for her support behind the scenes. Special recognition was given to the Pet Industry Association Australia and CEO Anthony Ramsay for their ongoing partnership and advocacy within the grooming sector.
“Ausgroom 2025 reminded us why we love this industry – the community, the education, the talent – it all came together beautifully.
“We’re so excited for what’s ahead with Aus Pet Expo and Ausgroom Brisbane in September 2025,” said Marsden.
To stay up to date on the latest industry headlines, sign up to the Pet Industry News e-newsletter.