2025 award winner reflects on industry recognition and what's next for Bluestone
When Bluestone Home Loans took out the Rate Money Non-Bank of the Year award at the 2025 Australian Mortgage Awards (AMAs), it was more than a trophy moment. For Tony MacRae (pictured, centre, with Bluestone’s chief marketing officer Nikki Avery (right) receiving award from Rate Money’s Kerryn Millar), chief commercial officer at Bluestone Home Loans in Sydney, the recognition stood as a measure of the relationships the prominent non-bank lender has built with its broker network over the past year.
"It's something we're really proud of, because it reflects the strength of our broker relationships," MacRae said. "Recognition like this tells us we're making a difference where it matters most, alongside the brokers we partner with every day."
With nominations for the 2026 Australian Mortgage Awards now open, MacRae sat down with MPA to reflect on what the AMAs mean for lenders, brokers, and the broader mortgage industry.
More than a night out
For MacRae, the value of awards evenings like the AMAs goes well beyond the presentations themselves – they allow everyone in the industry to come together to reflect on what makes the industry great.
"The team at Bluestone really value the chance to spend time with brokers in one place and celebrate the work they do," he said. "These nights bring the community together, creating space to build relationships, share ideas, and learn from each other."
The AMAs also provide an opportunity to recognise the role brokers play in helping clients move forward. "And that sense of connection is what makes the night so worthwhile. Importantly, it's also always a really great night,” said MacRae.
Why recognition matters for the broking community
MacRae believes events like the AMAs hold up a mirror to what the industry does well – and challenge everyone in the room to aim higher.
"Awards like the AMAs recognise the impact brokers have every single day in helping their clients achieve their goals," he said. "They also give brokers a chance to take a moment to celebrate the work they do, connect with peers, and build relationships that can support their business long term."
The ripple effects extend well beyond the evening itself. "You walk away with fresh ideas, stronger networks, and a renewed sense of what's possible, and that's what helps lift the whole industry."
For MacRae personally, the appeal of the AMAs comes down to the quality of conversation the night tends to produce. "You get to hear the stories behind the year, what's worked, what's changed, and where people are heading next. There's a genuine sense of pride on the night, and it's great to see that recognised across the room."
Tips for a standout submission
With the 2026 awards cycle now open, MacRae offered practical advice for businesses considering an entry – drawing on Bluestone's own experience preparing submissions.
"Be clear on your impact," he said. "Focus on real outcomes, not just activity. Bring your story to life with examples that show how you support your clients and partners."
Authenticity, he added, is what separates the strongest entries from the rest. "Keep it simple and authentic – the strongest submissions are the ones that are easy to understand and genuinely reflect the work being done."
A strong year with more to come
Away from the awards circuit, Bluestone has been building out its product suite in response to broker demand for greater flexibility. Over the past 12 months, the lender has expanded into construction finance, commercial property lending, and expat mortgage solutions – areas MacRae says are creating new opportunities for broker businesses.
“Brokers have continued to support and trust us, which is something we don’t take for granted,” said MacRae. “Looking ahead, we’ve been working on some meaningful innovations to improve the experience for both brokers and borrowers. There’s more to come in the year ahead, and we’re excited about what that will unlock for the brokers we partner with every day.”
MacRae flagged further product and experience improvements in the pipeline. "We've been working on some meaningful innovations to improve the experience for both brokers and borrowers. There's more to come in the year ahead, and we're excited about what that will unlock for the brokers we partner with every day."
Be sure to place your nominations for the 2026 Australian Mortgage Awards before the 3 July deadline.
