Innovation and creativity shine at 2019 Mount Alexander Business Awards

Ten local businesses have been recognised for excellence in their field at a gala event to announce winners of the 2019 Mount Alexander Business Awards last Thursday night.
The independent judging panel had the difficult task of selecting winners from 23 high-quality finalists.
Mt Alexander Timber & Hardware took away the coveted Business of the Year Award and $2000 prize money, and ASQ Skydancers won a special award recognising best practice in accessibility.
Mt Alexander Timber & Hardware impressed the judges with their range of products, commitment to customer service and competitive prices which have earned them a strong local following.
The judges were impressed with the team’s business planning, thoughtful and methodical execution, and exemplary levels of practical support for the community.
Mayor of Mount Alexander Shire Christine Henderson congratulated all nominees, finalists and winners of the business awards.
“We were impressed by the diversity of businesses that entered the awards and the level of expertise here in Mount Alexander Shire. Running a business is not a nine to five job and can be all consuming so it was amazing to see 69 businesses enter the awards this year.
“The independent judging panel were most impressed with the calibre of entries, and we have seen tonight just how much business innovation and creativity we have in the shire.
“We congratulate every one of you and wish you every success.
“We received more than 340 nominations for the awards this year and would also like to thank our community for getting behind local businesses and demonstrating your support.”
Mayor Henderson also thanked the judging panel for taking on the challenging task of determining the winners.
The judges were Paul Henderson of AusIndustry, Gavin Coffey retired CEO, Bolwell Corporation Australia Pty Ltd, Daniel Bone of Business Mount Alexander, Mark Coffey of Allawah Bendigo and Wine Bank on View, Kate Gamble from Maldon Inc., Rebecca Pedretti from Hepburn Shire Council, Lisa Rundell from the Lost Trades Fair and Tomahawk
Marketing + PR, Genevieve Wearne from The Flophouse, and Lorraine Le Plastrier and Paul Gianni representing Mount Alexander Shire Disability Advocacy Group.
“Thank you also to MC John Fleming and guest speaker Adrian Kowal who shared his journey and experiences after winning the 2017 Business of the Year Award,” Cr Henderson said.
Council acknowledged the support from business awards partner the Midland Express / Castlemaine Mail and award sponsors.
The awards were proudly run by Council in partnership with the Midland Express / Castlemaine Mail and supported by Business Mount Alexander, Good Earth Garden Supplies, Maldon Inc., Maldon & District Community Bank, Small Business Victoria and Workspace Australia.
For all the winners in this year’s Mount Alexander Business Awards turn to pages 20 and 21.