Ararat call for nominations

Municipal leaders are encouraging Ararat district businesses to enter East Grampians Business Awards, which officials will present at a gala evening at Ararat Town Hall later this year.

Entries have opened across seven categories for the awards, scheduled for November.

Categories are: Young person of the year; sustainability; innovation and technology; best new business; people’s choice; COVID-19 resilience; and business of the year.

Ararat Rural City Council chief executive Dr Tim Harrison said the awards recognised businesses across the municipality that embodied excellence and brought economic growth to the region.

“COVID-19 has changed the way we live, work and innovate. I’m especially proud of our business community which, time and time again, has shown resilience and continues to thrive,” he said.

“The East Grampians Business Awards are a great opportunity for our region’s businesses, whether small, large, rural or Cbd-based, to reflect on their achievements.

“It is also an important platform that acknowledges local businesses, the contribution they make to our community and celebrate the work they do.”

Organisers have simplified an award application process, with the Ararat council working with Ararat district business advocacy group Gabnetwork to encourage entries and broad participation across the municipality.

“The awards provide businesses in the Ararat municipality with the opportunity to raise their profile and further enhance their business,” Dr Harrison said.

“There are seven categories to nominate your business with a cash prize offered to the winner of the ‘business of the year’ category. Residents are also encouraged to vote for the business that has gone above and beyond for the coveted people’s choice award.”

An independent panel will judge the awards. Applications close on October 1. More information about the categories, entry guidelines and application forms are available on council website www.ararat.vic. gov.au.