Celebrating the 2025 Fans Choice Awards Night
The inaugural 2025 Fans Choice Awards Night marked a milestone moment for Australian poker. For the first time, the community came together in a dedicated awards setting to celebrate the people who make the game thrive, and the night exceeded all expectations.
Hosted by Liam Murray, who was sensational throughout the evening, and held live from Queen B’s Poker in Beenleigh, Queensland, the event was a true celebration of Australian poker and the diverse community behind it. From players and dealers to tournament directors, media, support staff, and content creators, this night was about recognising contribution, passion, and excellence across all levels of the game.
The atmosphere in the room reflected just how meaningful this night was. The deserving award winners were genuinely thrilled to take home their fantastic medals, a symbol of recognition from the very community that nominated and voted for them. There is no other night like this in Australian poker, one that exists purely to celebrate its people.
The venue looked spectacular thanks to Morgan and the Queen B’s team, along with many others working behind the scenes. Photography was captured by Michael Walford, catering was provided by In Season Catering Southport, and the stunning medals were created by Pokershop.com.au, adding a professional and memorable touch to the evening.
After months of planning, close to 200 nominations were submitted through the Australian Poker Schedule website, followed by almost 400 fan votes. On the night, 13 medals were awarded, recognising outstanding achievements both on and off the felt.
Throughout the ceremony, the Australian Poker Schedule reviewed every calendar month of action in 2025, covering more than 70 poker series nationwide. This consistent and detailed coverage helped shape the awards process and ensured performances across the entire year were recognised, not just headline moments.
While the live stream experienced some minor technical glitches for viewers watching at home, particularly with the video, a full edited version of the awards night can now be viewed on the Australian Poker Schedule YouTube Channel, for anyone to enjoy.
The overwhelming response to this first Fans Choice Awards Night has confirmed what many already felt. This event fills a unique space in Australian poker. After being so well received, it is clear the Fans Choice Awards are here to stay and will continue to grow bigger and better each year. The planning of next years event has already begun and the Australian Poker Schedule is inviting sponsors to ensure an even bigger and better night in January 2027.
Thank you to everyone who nominated, voted, attended, watched the stream, and supported the event.
2025 Fans Choice Awards Winners
Player of the Year: Higor Seibel
Female Player of the Year: Ling Liu
Young Player of the Year: Liam Jehu
Business Reg of the Year: Mishel Anunu
Series of the Year: APL Million (Southport Sharks)
Minor or Regional Series of the Year: Mixed Games Academy Summer Mix (Wantima Country Club)
Circuit Dealer of the Year: Pedro Mattos
Local Dealer of the Year: Chris Fiddes
Circuit Tournament Director of the Year: Amanda Abernethy
Local Tournament Director of the Year: Patrick Russell
Media Person of the Year: Chris Wadih
Support Team Member of the Year: Tayla Pickles
Content Creator of the Year: Nelson Dong
Congratulations to all of our 2025 winners and nominees. This night was about celebrating you, and it was only the beginning.
Be sure to check out our Australian Poker Series Timeline and Calendar for all of the upcoming series. Whether you’re a player, team member, or operator, we hope you find this useful in planning a very happy and prosperous 2026!
