Nominations are now open for the annual business excellence awards recognising the Bundaberg Region’s best of the best in business.
Bundaberg and District Chamber of Commerce officially launched the 2026 Business Excellence Awards earlier this month alongside new major sponsor SSS Strawberries.
Bundaberg Regional Council proudly sponsors the Small Business of the Year award and the Growth Award as part of its Small Business Friendly Commitment.
Bundaberg and District Chamber of Commerce President Tim Sayre said the awards continued to strengthen collaboration across the region, with the Bundaberg and District Chamber of Commerce working alongside both the Childers and Gin Gin Chambers of Commerce.
“The Business Excellence Awards are about celebrating our entire region,” Mr Sayre said.
“It’s fantastic to have the Gin Gin Chamber of Commerce joining Bundaberg and Childers in promoting and recognising business excellence.
“By working together, we create stronger connections, encourage innovation and showcase the incredible depth of talent across our regional business community.”
Bundaberg Region Mayor Helen Blackburn said Council was pleased to join local chambers to celebrate the Bundaberg Region business community.
“The Business Excellence Awards are an important opportunity to recognise the businesses and individuals whose hard work, innovation and determination continue to strengthen our regional economy,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“I congratulate the Bundaberg and District Chamber of Commerce, SSS Strawberries and all partners involved in showcasing the outstanding achievements of our local business community.
“Our local businesses are the backbone of our regional economy, and the Business Excellence Awards provide a fitting platform to celebrate those achievements and the people who contribute so greatly to the success our region.”
SSS Strawberries owners Toan Nguyen and Gina Dang said the business was proud to support an initiative that celebrated the resilience, innovation and passion of local businesses.
“Our business has grown because of the support of this region, and we’re excited to give something back,” they said.
“The Business Excellence Awards recognise the hard work and determination that goes into running a successful business, and we’re honoured to be part of celebrating those achievements.”
Award nominations are now open, with businesses of all sizes encouraged to nominate or be nominated across a range of categories.
Award categories
Business of the Year
Recognizes overall excellence in business performance, innovation and impact.
Micro Business of the Year
Celebrates outstanding achievements by small-scale enterprises. (1 – 4 employees)
Small Business of the Year (sponsored by Bundaberg Regional Council)
Honors successful small businesses that contribute to the community. (5 – 29 employees)
Medium Business of the Year
Acknowledges mid-sized businesses with notable accomplishments. (20 – 99 employees)
Large Business of the Year
Commends large enterprises for their significant contributions. (100 + employees)
People’s Choice Award
Voted by the community, this award celebrates the most popular business.
Business Categories
- New Business of the Year: Recognising promising startups and recent ventures
- Customer Service Excellence: Highlighting exceptional customer-focused businesses.
- Community Service Excellence: Honouring businesses making a positive impact on the community.
- Innovation Award: Celebrating forward-thinking and creative solutions.
- Growth Award: Recognising businesses that have achieved substantial growth. (Sponsored by Bundaberg Regional Council)
- Marketing Award: Commending effective marketing strategies.
- Promoting Sustainability: Encouraging environmentally conscious practices.
- Young Business Person Award (25 years and under): Recognising young entrepreneurs.
Nominations can be submitted on the Bundaberg and District Chamber of Commerce website.
Entries close on Friday 16 October, with the award ceremony to be held on Saturday 7 November.
