SSAA Members gathered on the Gold Coast on Thursday 14 November for the highly anticipated 2024 SSAA Awards for Excellence presented by VISY Boxes and More.
Celebrating remarkable achievements across various categories, the event highlighted operational excellence, innovation, a commitment to sustainability, and community engagement—qualities that define the self storage industry’s values. Facilities from under 150 units to facilities over 500 units were also recognised, bringing the award tally to 10.
Award submissions were evaluated by a seasoned, independent judging panel, who noted the exceptionally high standard of this year’s entries, making the selection process particularly challenging.
2024 Award Winners by Category:
Excellence in Community Engagement, sponsored by USC:
Winner: StoreLocal
Finalist: Storage King, Eagle Farm
StoreLocal’s ‘Local Partners’ initiative, saw them partner with 35 not-for-profit clubs across Australia, contributing over $150,000 in financial aid and resources. These partnerships have supported community organisations by providing essential tools to grow their membership, enhance engagement, and lighten the load on volunteers. The judges praised the “Local Partners” program for its community impact and potential to elevate the self storage industry’s profile through sustainability and replicability.
Excellence in Sustainability, sponsored by PTI Security:
Winner: National Mini Storage
National Mini Storage’s award reflects its strong commitment to sustainability and employee welfare. By securing a Sustainable Transition Loan, they achieved significant savings and implemented energy-efficient initiatives like LED lighting and solar panels, saving over 87,000 kWh. Their Sustainability Strategy emphasises renewable energy, staff wellbeing, and meaningful environmental contributions, proving private operators can balance sustainability with financial success. Judges praised their long-term focus, internal upskilling with Deloitte, peer reviews by KPMG, and commendable family leave policies, which reduced staff turnover.
Excellence in Innovation, sponsored by Storco:
Winner: StorAxxS
Finalists: National Mini Storage, R6 Digital
Launched in November 2023, the StorAxxS product has seen steady growth. This industry-first ecosystem includes an in-unit camera, motion sensor, storage unit controller, and StorAxxS Smart Lock – positioning Australia as a leader in self storage access control. Developed over three years, it has gained global attention for its innovation and sustainability. The judging panel praised its features and continuous improvements, with the StorAxxS Pro offering benefits for customers, owners, and operators alike.
Excellence in Industry, sponsored by Janus International Australia:
Winner: Basil Fry for StoreProtect
Finalists: National Mini Storage, Storco
StoreProtect is a new-for-old customer protection solution tailored to Australia’s complex legal landscape, filling a key market gap for self storage operators. Its development required significant investment to adapt the proven UK model. Since launch, interest has been strong, with widespread adoption expected. The judges commended Basil Fry’s leadership and commitment to solving a longstanding challenge, calling StoreProtect an essential innovation and a model of exemplary sector leadership.
Best Facility Expansion or Upgrade, sponsored by Highway Frontage:
Winner: Safe Store Westgate
Safe Store Westgate has grown significantly with a 5,000 sqm+ expansion, adding a three-story building with diverse unit sizes, three commercial lifts, and a large loading bay to enhance convenience and capacity. Perimeter units feature extra-large automated roller doors, complemented by advanced security and fire detection systems. Supported by strategic marketing, this three-year project overcame pandemic challenges and the judges praised its strong vision and execution, serving growing residential and commercial demand.
Facility of the Year (up to 150 units), sponsored by Southwell Lifts & Hoists:
Winner: Swift Storage Yeppoon
Finalists: U-Lock Self Storage, Mornington Peninsula Boat & Caravan Storage
Swift Storage Yeppoon, Queensland’s largest purpose-built RV storage facility, offers tailored amenities like a wash-down bay, trickle charging, and dump points for RV and boat owners. Equipped with smart access via mobile app, 24/7 security, and online account management, it provides a seamless, tech-driven storage experience. The judges were particularly impressed by their innovative, fully automated model, effective marketing strategy, and focus on local employment, positioning it as a standout facility for the growing RV market.
Facility of the Year (150 – 500 units), sponsored by Visy Boxes & More:
Winner: Bass Coast Boat & Caravan Storage
Finalists: StoreLocal Pacific Pines, U Can Store It
Bass Coast Boat and Caravan Storage, a family-run business, provides safe, affordable storage with outdoor parking, premium undercover bays, and container options. Featuring automatic gates, CCTV, and an on-site residence, security is a priority. Named “Business of the Year” at the Bass Coast Business Awards, the facility is praised for exceptional customer service and community dedication. The judges commended the family’s passion and hands-on management, also reflected in glowing reviews and award recognition.
Facility of the Year (over 500 units), sponsored by R6 Digital
Winner: Rent a Space Casula
Finalists: KeepSafe Storage Welshpool, Roomia Self Storage Butler
Rent A Space Casula, the 17th facility in the Rent A Space portfolio, stands out with its high-visibility location and modern, sustainable design. After their contractor’s administration, the team swiftly formed a construction company, completing the 651-unit facility in just eight months. Featuring industrial-retail design, eco-friendly materials, solar panels, and customer-focused amenities, it earned praise for exceptional service and a 5-star Google rating. Judges appreciated its sleek design, rapid build, and overall resilience in overcoming challenges.
Manager of the Year, sponsored by Storman
Joint Winners: Tara White from KeepSafe Storage Balcatta and Farag Marey from Rent a Space Girraween
Finalist: Kim Latu from Roomia Self Storage
Tara White, Senior Facility Manager at KeepSafe Storage Balcatta, has shown outstanding dedication to customer service and financial performance. In 2023, she expanded her role to oversee advertising, staff training, and operations. Known for her empathy and work ethic, Tara drives community initiatives, offers storage to local charities, and implements creative marketing strategies. Judges praised her emergency management skills, exceptional commercial results, and efforts to enhance customer experience and brand goodwill.
Under Farag’s leadership, Rent A Space Girraween has achieved record-breaking occupancy, strong revenue growth, and a stellar Google rating. He fosters a customer-centric culture, mentoring his team while maintaining high operational standards. With 15 years of experience, his background in engineering and logistics has made him a standout manager. The judges highlighted his proactive approach, innovation in marketing, and exceptional hospitality, which have significantly contributed to customer satisfaction and overall business success.
Service Member of the Year, sponsored by the Self Storage Association of Australasia:
Winner: R6 Digital
Finalists: iBidOnStorage, Sentinel Storage Security
Celebrating 30 years in self storage, R6 Digital has driven innovation and efficiency, enhancing operations for both independent and larger operators. In the past year, they’ve generated 70,000 leads, processed 50,000 reservations, and built 20 new storage websites. Their customer-first approach and platforms like RapidStor and StorApp have solidified their leadership. Judges commended R6 Digital’s ongoing innovation and global impact, elevating the Australasian self storage sector while supporting the industry’s growth.
The 2024 SSAA Awards for Excellence, presented by VISY Boxes and More, recognised the best in the industry, celebrating the dedication, innovation, and commitment driving the self storage sector forward. A heartfelt congratulations to all the winners for their exceptional contributions!