Recognising business excellence

That’s a wrap on this year’s Geelong Business Excellence Awards, with the winners announced at The Pier Geelong last night.

Businesses from all sectors were celebrated for their commitment to innovation, resilience and positive community impact during the annual gala event on Thursday, October 17.

The night started with a walk down the blue carpet and a talk from host Sarah Ashmore before the Geelong Chamber of Commerce and major sponsor LBW Business + Wealth Advisors awarded the winners.

The Business of the Year and Innovation, Research and Development awards were snatched up by Cabinets by Computer, which installs and supports easy-to-use software solutions for the cabinet-making industry.

Jo Plummer scored the Business Leader of the Year Award for her dedication to leadership across multiple roles.

Shannan Gove was announced as the Young Entrepreneur of the Year for his entrepreneurial achievements.

Medical equipment manufacturer Care Essentials received the Advanced Manufacturing and Industry Award, while digital marketing agency Made Great received the Best First Year Entry Award.

The Corporate Social Responsibility Award went to strategy, branding and graphic design consultancy Storyfolk, and the Customer Service Award went to the Pets Country Club.

Custom software company Enterprise Monkey received the Digital Engagement Award, while waste management service Sycle was the Emerging Business – Under Three Years.

Blackman’s Brewery achieved the Employer of Choice, and the Health and Wellbeing Promoting Workplace Award went to disability and support service Flying Start Children’s Therapy.

The Home-based and Micro Business Award went to Elizabeth Bell Ceramics, and the Inclusive and Accessible Business Award went to restaurant The Q Train.

The Medium to Large Business Award went to Scotchmans Hill Winery, the Retail Business Award to Mr Brown’s Menswear, and the Tourism and Hospitality Award to The Arborist.

Plumbing and environmental solutions provider Kennedys Group received the Safe and Healthy Business Award, and cooking class business Harvest Experience received the Sustainable Business Award.

Create Balance Psychotherapy and Counselling also received the Small Business Award during the night’s presentations.