From five-star dining to fearless adventurers, high performers abound in this year's finalist list for the Lake Macquarie Business Excellence Awards.
This year's awards feature 15 categories, with winners announced at a gala evening on 2 August at Belmont 16s.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said a bevy of businesses never before nominated had made this year's finals.
"It's wonderful to see the diversity of businesses recognised this year," she said.
"Many of them have faced significant challenges with the economic downturn happening right across Australia. The Lake Macquarie Business Excellence Awards are a chance to shine a light on their hard work and success."
Fine dining venue 8 at Trinity, Warners Bay-based Evolution Advisers and Toronto Private Hospital, which is undergoing a major expansion, are finalists in this year's Excellence in Large Business category.
Women Embrace Adventure, a locally based travel company offering global getaways for women, is a finalist in the Oustanding Visitor Experience category, up against CoastXP, Matt Hall Racing and 8 at Trinity.
Cr Fraser said voting was now open for the Origin Energy People's Choice Award, selected from all category finalists.
"I'd encourage everyone to vote for their favourite organisation via our website. The trophy will go to the business with the most online votes."
Winners from selected categories will progress to compete in the Business Hunter Awards later this year.
The Lake Macquarie Business Excellence Awards are proudly supported by Dantia, Origin Energy, the Newcastle Herald, Charlestown Square by the GPT Group, Lake Group Strata, NGM Group, Umwelt, University of Newcastle, ATUNE Health Centres, Hunter Water, Lake Mac Holiday Parks and Ramsay Health Care.
Go to lakemac.com.au for a full list of finalists and to vote in the Origin Energy People's Choice Award.
