CORANGAMITE
BUSINESS AWARDS
2026
The Corangamite Business Awards aim to recognise and celebrate the efforts and achievements of our local business sector, their contribution to the economy and community of Corangamite.
Council invites businesses to nominate for the 2026 Corangamite Shire Business Awards. The awards celebrate small, medium and large businesses across the shire, recognising their achievements and contributions to the community and economy.
Corangamite is the place to Celebrate, Honour, Excel, Empower, Recognise (CHEER). By joining us on this journey, it allows you to take a breath, step back and enjoy just how far your business has come, reigniting your passion and focusing your direction.
What’s new in 2026
Following feedback from last year, in 2026 anyone can nominate a business in addition to self‑nominations
Council encourages residents, customers, visitors and business supporters to get involved by nominating a business that deserves to be recognised for its contribution, innovation and excellence.
Nominations close Monday 16 March, with final business submissions due Monday 30 March.
This year also introduces two key updates to ensure the Awards continue to reflect the diversity of Corangamite’s business community.
Expanded Category: Growers, Producers and Agribusiness
The former Growers and Producers category has been broadened to recognise the full breadth of the agricultural sector.
New Category: Trade Business of the Year
A brand‑new award recognising excellence across trades and industry, including construction, manufacturing, electrical, plumbing, wholesale and retail trade.
CATEGORIES
Growers, Producers and Agribusiness
Recognises businesses across the agricultural sector, from primary producers to processors and agribusiness service providers. It celebrates those who contribute positively to the local economy and community and embody excellence within Corangamite’s thriving rural industries.
Outstanding Customer Service
Recognises businesses that provide outstanding customer service and demonstrate commitment to achieving excellence throughout the entire customer journey.
Circular Solutions
Recognises businesses that have demonstrated a commitment to sustainable and circular economy practices (can include recycling, re-using, repair, re-purpose, re-design and reduce).
Future Shapers
Recognises businesses that have used innovative solutions to improve their industry sector and/or business community on a customer, social, environmental or business efficiency level.
Trade Business of the Year
Recognises outstanding achievement, innovation and professionalism in the industrial and trades sector. Open to all trade businesses in Corangamite including construction, manufacturing, electrical, plumbing, wholesale and retail trade.
Tourism Excellence
Recognises businesses that have contributed to the visitor economy with a commitment to improve social, economic or environmental impacts, providing a positive destination experience that increases visitation to the Corangamite Shire.
Key Dates:
Nominations open: Monday 16 February 2026
Community nominations close: Monday 16 March 2026
Nominations finalised: Monday 30 March 2026
Finalists announced: Early April
Judging: April/May 2026
Awards Night: Wednesday 17 June 2026, 6 - 9 pm