2017 Categories

Applications for the 2017 Bendigo Business Excellence awards are now open.
Please see below the list of category awards open for application. To apply for the category most appropriate for your business,
please click the apply link under the category award description. 

Peoples Choice Award

Businesses that receive the highest number of nominations go into the running for the Peoples Choice Award. Official polling for this award runs during the application period, with the winner announced at the Gala Celebration in June.

Business of the Year

The crowning jewel of the Excellence Awards, businesses need to have won a category to be considered for this award.

Excellence in Service Industry

Open to all businesses who go above and beyond in their field to offer an exceptional product or service for consumers.

Excellence as a Major Employer

Open to all organisations with more than 100 employees.

Best New Business (5 Years or less)

Designed to recognise businesses who have been operating for a period of 5 years or less and are excelling in their chosen field.

Excellence in Trade

Designed to acknowledge all trade businesses, examples include electricians, carpenters, plumbers, bricklayers, gardeners, mechanics, hairdressers, etc.

Excellence in Retail

Open to all retailers who provide exceptional customer service and a unique shopping experience.

Bendigo Social Enterprise of the Year

This category celebrates excellence in social enterprise. We define a social enterprise as a not-for-profit organisation that applies commercial strategies to maximise improvements in human and environmental wellbeing.

Professional Service of the Year

This category celebrates professional Services offering business-to-business solutions and customised, knowledge based services. Examples include law firms, real estate agencies, accountants, engineers, financial advisors, architects, consultants, medical practices.

Excellence in Health & Wellbeing

Designed to recognise businesses who provide a health and wellbeing service to members of the public, examples include naturopaths, gyms, certified fitness groups, day spas, alternative health practices, etc.

Excellence in Online Marketing

Designed to recognise businesses who engage with their customers across multiple online platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat or a website.

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Trainee/Apprentice of the Year

Designed to recognise outstanding individuals who are currently completing a traineeship or apprenticeship. Applications for this category can only be submitted by an employer or colleague of the person who is being acknowledged. The trainee or apprentice must be currently employed full time.

Employee of the Year

Designed to recognise outstanding employees who have excelled in their line of work. Applications for this category can only be submitted by an employer or colleague of the person who is being acknowledged. The nominee must have worked with the organisation for a minimum of 12 months

Excellence in Sustainability

Sustainable businesses adapt to customer needs and remain relevant in a changing economic environment. They have innovative methods weaved into their business DNA which allow them to limit their impact on the environment, remain competitive and guarantee their viability for years to come.

Excellence in Manufacturing

Open to all manufacturers that apply innovation and best practice in the creation of a product.

Excellence in Hospitality

Designed to recognise outstanding restaurants and cafes offering an exceptional dining experience for patrons.

Excellence in Accom. & Tourism

Designed to recognise quality accommodation or tourism experiences that attract visitors to Bendigo.