Nominations are open for the 2023 Lake Mac Business Excellence Awards, shining a light on local businesses big and small.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said nominations for last year’s awards were up more than 20 per cent on previous years, “and I’m keen to see this momentum continue”.
“Feedback from applicants was that it was a great exercise to stop and really focus on their business – what they had already achieved and what they were planning for the coming year,” she said.
“It’s doesn’t have to be a million-dollar enterprise. Lake Mac is home to thousands of small businesses doing amazing things.”
“Together, they are the beating heart of our economy.”
Tech company SAPHI saw a significant jump in revenue and recognition after taking out last year’s Business of the Year award.
“We also experienced a step change in requests for speaking at events, our social media following and lead generation,” Director Cameron Owen said.
Mr Owen encouraged other local businesses to go in the running to reap the same kind of benefits.
While all applications are carefully assessed by a panel of expert judges, this year a new People’s Choice Award will be chosen based on the highest number of public votes.
“All business category finalists will be eligible for this new award,” Cr Fraser said.
Other changes include splitting the Employer of Choice award into two categories – 20 or Less Employees and 21 or More Employees – to encourage more small businesses to enter.
The former Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality award is now the Outstanding Visitor Experience – Tourism and Hospitality award to better recognise businesses that promote Lake Mac and offer exceptional visitor experiences.
And the Excellence in Sustainability award is now open to organisations that have sustainability as their core business.
This year’s awards, to be announced at a gala dinner on Friday 21 July, include 16 categories in total.
The winners of 13 of those categories will progress to the Hunter Business Awards.
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