Backman Builders have taken out the Business of the Year award at the 2024 Josh's Rainbow Eggs Macedon Ranges Business Excellence Awards held last Friday evening.
Capping off a stellar night at host venue Mount Macedon Winery, the family-owned and operated local business also won awards in the categories of Excellence in Manufacturing, Trades, Retail and Innovation; and Champion of Social, Environmental or Sustainability Principles.
The biennial, Council-run awards recognise businesses offering an outstanding service to the shire and beyond, which are of great value to the community in providing local jobs, services and supplies.
A total of 42 businesses entered this year's awards, with 25 finalists chosen by a panel of independent judges. All finalists were also eligible for the People's Choice award, which saw more than 560 votes cast by the public and Gisborne's Three Little Pigs taking out this year's award.
Local personality, Shane Jacobson kept everyone entertained as MC for the awards and was able to add a number of personal anecdotes recognising businesses well known to him as a customer.
The full list of award winners is as follows:
- Business of the Year - Backman Builders (Kyneton)
- Excellence in Manufacturing, Trades, Retail and Innovation - Backman Builders (Kyneton)
- Champion of Social, Environmental or Sustainability Principles - Backman Builders (Kyneton)
- Excellence in Agribusiness and Food Manufacturing - Rafael's Coffee (Lancefield)
- Excellence in Health, Wellness and Care - Gentle Sensory (Gisborne)
- Excellence in Professional Services - KGMG Creative (Woodend)
- Excellence in Tourism and Visitor Experience - Braeside Mt Macedon Country Retreat (Mount Macedon)
- Small and Thriving - KimCo (Woodend)
- Young Achiever Award - Rebecca Philpot – Bug-A-Lugs Indoor Play Centre and OSHC (Kyneton, Woodend)
- People's Choice Award - 3 Little Pigs (Gisborne)
Deputy Mayor Janet Pearce congratulated all of the winners and finalists, and thanked sponsors for their support.
"There is a lot that goes into making these awards happen and I would like to thank all those who have helped organise, support and participate in the event," she said.
"To our many amazing local businesses: you bring so many positive benefits to the community and it's great to be able to recognise the wonderful work you do."
Next year will see the return of the Telstra Macedon Ranges Community Choice Awards, which recognises businesses that have displayed excellence in customer service through a public nomination and voting process.
"The 2023 Community Choice Awards were a huge success, with 78 businesses nominated by the community," Deputy Mayor Pearce said. "It's a great opportunity to get behind your favourite local businesses and show them your support, so keep an eye out early next year for the nominations to open."
More information about business news and events, including the interchanging annual awards, can be found at Business news and events.
Photos by: Angelica James Photography
