Mount Alexander Shire Council is inviting local businesses to share their story and nominate for the 2025 Mount Alexander Business Awards.
The awards celebrate the people and enterprises that drive positive change in our local economy – through innovation, care, sustainability and community connection.
The 2025 award categories include:
– Outstanding Workplace
– Sustainability Hero
– NextGen Champion
– Local Food Excellence
– Accessibility Champion
– Community Impact
– Innovation and Technology
– People’s Choice
– Business of the Year
Council’s manager of economy and culture Merryn Tinkler said every business had a story and this was their chance to tell it.
“The awards are not about being the biggest or loudest – they’re about recognising the impact local businesses have in shaping a thriving and inclusive shire,” she said.
The entry process is straightforward and designed to be accessible to all.
Businesses are encouraged to speak in their own voice – no need for perfect wording or polished imagery. What matters is sharing what drives your work, how you support your team and community, and what makes your business unique.
An independent judging panel will assess submissions and develop a shortlist of businesses for site visits. Finalists will be selected based on both the written entry and the insights gathered during visits.
Council encourages all businesses to consider entering, noting that the process itself can be a valuable opportunity for reflection and recognition.
To help businesses prepare their entry, Startup Central Victoria is offering a free one-hour online information session tonight, Tuesday September 9, at 7pm.
The session will offer practical guidance on presenting your business clearly and confidently. Join the session via Zoom at www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/Business-Awards.
To be considered for any award category – including People’s Choice or the overall Business of the Year – businesses must submit an official entry form. This is required even for those nominated by the public.
Entries close on Sunday September 21.
The awards ceremony this year will be held on Wednesday November 19 at Boomtown Winery and Bistro at The Mill, Castlemaine.
To enter or find out more, visit www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/Business-Awards.
For further information, contact Daniel Bone, economic development coordinator, on 5471 1700 or email d.bone@mountalexander.vic.gov.au
The Mount Alexander Business Awards are run by Mount Alexander Shire Council with the support of wonderful sponsors and partners including gold partner Don and principal media partner Midland Express and Castlemaine Mail.
