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Hugs, cheers and tears of joy were the order of the night as the winners of this year’s Illawarra and South Coast Local Business Awards took to the stage on Wednesday August 9.
The excitement built as the finalists in each category were announced, complete with images on the big screen, followed by huge cheers as the winners’ names were read out and they took to the stage to claim their trophies.
Acceptance speeches ranged from teary and emotional to wildly humorous as the winners paid tribute to their staff, congratulated other finalists and thanked the community for its support.
Awards founder and Precedent Productions managing director Steve Loe said the evening was a huge success.
“The sell-out crowd included our finalists with their families and staff, as well as our sponsors and local dignitaries, who helped to present awards to the winners,” he said.
“There was a buzz in the air throughout the night as the finalists took the opportunity to relax and socialise.
“The fabulous food and service provided by Dapto Leagues Club made it a truly five-star occasion, as did the entertainment by the Sia and Jessie J tributes.
“MC Paul Hancock kept the evening flowing smoothly and numerous people came up to me during and after the event to say how much they enjoyed themselves.”
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Mr Loe congratulated all the winners and finalists on their success.
“The Local Business Awards exist to recognise the vital role business people play in the lives of their communities.
“While only one business from each category can be recognised as a winner, the achievements of all finalists are worth being recognised and celebrated.
“Of course, the awards are only possible with the support of major sponsors, Dapto Leagues Club and support sponsors, Warilla Grove Shopping Centre.
“Their involvement proves their commitment to their community and the businesses that thrive there.”
Congratulations to all the winners of the 2017 Local Business Awards.
Businesses can register for the 2018 Local Business Awards at www.thebusinessawards.com.au.
Outstanding talent revealed
The three most coveted awards at the Illawarra and South Coast Local Business Awards are the Business of the Year, Business Person of the Year and the Youth Award.
Hand crafted burger joint the Hungry Monkey was awarded Outstanding Cafe and went on to win the prestigious Business of the Year award.
Hungry Monkey’s Jack Alexander said he was really surprised and excited by the win.
Marnie Beauchamp, principal of McGrath Estate Agents Kiama won the Business Person of the Year. This tops off a year of success after Marnie was named “Agent of the Year 2017” for both Kiama and Kiama Downs.
Elysa Perry, of Skin Correctives, took out the Youth Award and thanked her boss Karen Meiring de Gonzalez and the team.
The winner of each category is …
The 2017 Local Business Awards were highly contested and the finalists were all deserving of the big prize, but there can be only one winner and here is a list of this year’s award recipients:
Chooksy’s – Fast Food / Takeaway
Pandora at Stockland Shellharbour – Jewellery Store
The Postman’s Quarter in Thirroul – Restaurant
Mitchell’s Market Warilla Grove – Fruit and Vegetable Shop
Live Committed – Fitness Services
Woonona Florist – Florist
YD Stockland Shellharbour – Men’s Fashion Store
Crossroads Warilla Grove – Women’s Fashion Store
First Choice Mechanical Repairs – Automotive Services
Shoalhaven Gourmet Mushrooms – Fresh Food
Wollongong Crane Trucks – Service and Trade
Central Hair and Beauty Oak Flats – Hairdresser
Delaney’s Cakes – Bakery / Cake Shop
Dance Sensations – Dance Studio
Specsavers Dapto Mall – Health Improvement Services
Harlow Day Spa – Beauty Services
Hy-Qual Mowers – Specialised Retail Business
Coolgardie Children’s Centre – Child Care Services
ANE Electrical Solutions – New Business
Rand Family Tattoo – Specialised Business
The Hungry Monkey – Cafe
Harcourts Dapto – Real Estate Agency
LP Entertainment – Professional Services
Wollongong First Aid – Education Service
Cannon & Ball Veterinary Surgeons – Pet Care