Awards founder has seen it all

Timing the key ingredient

Timing the key ingredient

Award drives toy maker

Fresh faces will join this year’s judging panel for the city’s top business awards.

City Hall’s acting economic development unit manager Terry Hearne and Gordon Institute of TAFE quality assurance senior manager Peter Corkran have accepted the invitation to help judge the Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards.

Mr Hearne would bring his experience with the City of Greater Geelong where he encourages local business investment for the city’s industries.

Mr Corkran managed Gordon’s business maintenance and improvement; oversaw client, staff surveys; and headed the apprenticeship/traineeship taskforce and the risk management executive team.

The two new judges will join the board’s nine existing members.

A record number of business award hopefuls attended free briefing workshops this week to go into the running for the region’s top industry gongs.

Organiser Liz Loughnan encouraged businesses intending to enter this year’s Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards to attend the sessions to hone their entries.

“Participants will pick up valuable tips for putting together a successful entry and should be able to complete 50 per cent of the entry in draft form by the end of the workshop,” she said.

“It can be easy for organisations to get caught up with their core business and overlook aspects of their operations that are unique or that are done particularly well.”

Judging panel members would be available to assist with entry preparation and to give some insight into the winning edge,

Future sessions include:
Corio Shopping Centre Boardroom
Wednesday, March 12, 2008 – 6.00pm to 8.00pm
Gordon Institute of TAFE, Gallery
Friday, March 14, 2008  – 9.15am to 11.30am
Surf Coast Shire Chamber Rooms
Monday, March 17, 2008- 6.00pm to 8.00pm
Central Geelong Marketing held at City Hall
Thursday, March 27, 2008  – 6.00pm to 8.00pm
Borough of Queenscliffe – Beacon Resort conference room
Wednesday, April 2, 2008  – 6.00pm to 8.00pm

To book a place in one of these free workshops please contact The Communicators on ph: 5222 5863 or email: gbx@thecommunicators.com.au

One of Geelong biggest accountancy firms has lent support to this year’s Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards.

Moorabool Street’s LBW Chartered Accountants has celebrated its 25 years in Geelong by sponsoring this years tourism attractions, events and services category.

Partner Andrew Wierzbowski said the firm got behind the region’s premier business awards as a commitment to the region.

“We hope that sponsoring the Tourism-Attraction, Events and Services Category will not only encourage businesses in Geelong to take part but encourage business from all around the Geelong region to enter,” he said.

LBW Chartered Accountants’ professional offered business solutions and knowledge in financial services including financial planning, wealth creation, business advice, tax planning, accounting, auditing, superannuation and GST advice.

Awards organiser Liz Loughnan welcomed LBW Chartered Accountants as a new sponsor to the awards’ 23rd year.

Businesses can prepare their nominations with several free briefing workshops before the May 9 cutoff; the first session is on March 4.

For more information phone 5222 5863.

BUSINESS leaders flocked to Gordon Gallery for the launch of the 2008 Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards.

Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief executive officer Wayne Kayler-Thomson was keynote speaker at the function.

Mr Kayler-Thomson said businesses faced testing times amid talks of a forthcoming recession but insisted those who maintained high standards would be stronger for the experience.

This year’s awards will be presented at a gala evening on July 23.

All businesses are encouraged to enter the awards, which will feature 18 categories.  Entries for this yea’s awards close May 9.

FISHERMEN’S Pier restaurant last night became the 10th local business to be inducted into the Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards’ Hall of Fame.

Executive chef Simon Parrott accepted the honour during the launch of this year’s awards at the Gordon Gallery.  The restaurant entered the hall of fame after winning category awards in three of the past four years to join an elite group of local businesses.

Mr Parrott said he was honoured to accept the award after years of hard work.

The cream of the region’s business community gathered for the presentation and for the official launch of this year’s awards, which have recognised the best in local business since their inception in 1986.

This year’s awards will feature 19 categories and are open to all businesses.

Entries for this year’s awards close on May 9.

A series of briefing sessions will be conducted across the region from March 4 to March 27 to help prospective entrants complete their submissions.

The sessions will be run at Gordon Gallery, Surf Coast Shire chamber rooms, Queenscliff’s Beacon Resort Conference Room, Geelong Chamber of Commerce, City Hall and the VECCI boardroom.

The awards will be handed out at a gala evening on July 23.  Nomination forms have been posted to businesses across Geelong and are available from the award co-ordinators.

The Gordon Institute of TAFE and the 2007 judging panel are conducting six more workshops to help entrants come away with a clear understanding of their organisations’ strengths and the benefit of measuring themselves against their peers. And, at the same time, completing the first draft of their entry

The workshops will take participants through the five criteria; Vision & Leadership; Marketing; Quality of Operations and Results; HR Management; and Customer service.

Sharon Nicola, a past business excellence awards winner and facilitator of the workshops said,
“participants will experience an easy straight forward way of addressing the criteria to prepare a better entry.  All participants will complete at least 50% of their entry in the two hours and will need only to fine-tune some detail particularly relevant to their business.  Successful entrants in past awards would endorse the fact that attending one of these briefings gives the business a clear advantage with preparing their entry”

Dan Simmonds, chairman of the 2007 judging panel said, “All businesses are different, but they must all have a similar approach and a framework of operation which caters for their individual differences.  The key to success in these awards is by determining what makes your business different, how you deliver your goods or services, and managing the process.  The workshops will achieve that result”.

Businesses can also enter on-line by the website: www.thecommunicators.com.au then go to Awards.

The workshops are being held at:-
· Gordon Institute of TAFE, Gordon Gallery Friday, March 16-        9.15am-11.30am
· Surf Coast Shire Chamber Rooms-   Monday, March 19 -     6.00pm -8.00pm
· Borough of Queenscliffe Chamber Rooms- Wednesday, March 21- 6.00pm- 8.00pm
· Geelong Chamber of Commerce-  Thursday, March 22 -    6.00pm- 8pm
· Corio Shopping Centre-   Monday, March 26-       6.00pm- 8.00pm
· Central Geelong Marketing at City Hall Wednesday, March 28-  6.00pm-8.00pm

Bookings can be made through the co-ordinators, The Communicators Phone: 5222 5863  Fax: 5222 2924  Email: gbx@thecommunicators.coma.au

Established in 1975 as a wood heating and BBQ store, Classic Fireplaces and Barbeques prides itself on offering the leading brands in gas log fires, wood heaters and outdoor cooking.

The business services customers throughout the greater Geelong and coastal region and also works with local builders to supply top quality heating appliances for new homes.

Its major achievements have included being named among the top five Victorian dealers for Jetmaster Heat & Glo, achieving platinum dealer status with Weber and becoming a specialist dealer for Beefeater and Rinnai flame fire products.

John and Jeanette Greene have owned and managed the business since 1999 and have set out to create an atmosphere of quality products and service second to none in Geelong.
They said that winning the Micro Business Category had been beneficial in many different ways.

Mary Turek and Kristen Spalding have also joined our sales team and have a wealth of knowledge in sales and customer service.

Briefing workshops start tonight from 6 – 8pm at the GORDON INSTITUTE OF TAFE GALLERY, Fenwick Street, Geelong. Other dates at the Gordon are Thursday, March 8 from 9.15 – 11.30 am and Friday, March 16 from 9.15 – 11.30 am.  Please telephone Liz Loughnan at The Communicators on 5221 7133 to register your attendance.

And then SURFCOAST SHIRE CHAMBER ROOMS on Monday, March 19 from 6-8pm
BOROUGH OF QUEENSCLIFFE CHAMBER ROOMS on Wednesday, March 21 from 6 – 8pm
GEELONG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE on Thursday, March 22 from 6 – 8pm
CORIO SHOPPING CENTRE BOARDROOM on Monday, March 26 from 6 –8pm
CENTRAL GEELONG MARKETING AT CITY HALL on Wednesday, March 28 from 6 – 8pm

Awards co-ordinator John Loughnan said the prestigious awards offered a unique opportunity to the business community.
“Not only do the awards provide a window for micro, medium and large companies to review their operations, but they allow performance assessment in a competitive environment.

“While the actual entry process is simple, the benefits are significant in terms of evaluation, measuring against like organisations, enhancing your company profile and developing new business opportunities,” Mr Loughnan said.

A number of free workshops have been designed to assist entrants complete about 70 per cent of their submissions.

They will be conducted at the Gordon Institute of TAFE gallery, Fenwick Street, Geelong, on the following dates

Tuesday, March 6 from 6 – 8.00 pm
Thursday, March 8 from 9.15 – 11.30 am
Friday, March 16 from 9.15 – 11.30 am

And then SURFCOAST SHIRE CHAMBER ROOMS on Monday, March 19 from 6-8pm
BOROUGH OF QUEENSCLIFFE CHAMBER ROOMS on Wednesday, March 21 from 6 – 8pm
GEELONG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE on Thursday, March 22 from 6 – 8pm
CORIO SHOPPING CENTRE BOARDROOM on Monday, March 26 from 6 –8pm
CENTRAL GEELONG MARKETING AT CITY HALL on Wednesday, March 28 from 6 – 8pm

Some of Geelong’s top business people gathered at the Gordon Institute of TAFE Gallery for the start of the 22nd awards.

Frank Walker, managing director and founder of National Tiles and a local boy made good on the national and international stage, launched the 2007 Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards at the Gordon Institute of TAFE, Gallery last night.

Frank Walker said the awards held even more significance today than they did when they were started in 1985.  He said with 19 categories, the awards now provided a great diversity, allowing all businesses to benefit.

Frank Walker, 53, left the family company FC Walker & Sons Pty Ltd in 1979 at age 25 to start up his own domestic tile business with his wife Rhonda from a rented shop in Pakington Street, Geelong West.

Following his grand- father and father Les, he was elected as the youngest ever councillor to the then City of Geelong West council.  He also served as a board member of the Geelong and District Water board.

He is the father of seven children, six daughters and a son, of which three work in the business.  Together they have built National Tiles to be one of the largest distributors of domestic tiles in Australia.

Frank’s vision to expand the National Tiles business globally is now well underway and is now manufacturing tiles in China.  As well as being distributed Australia wide, their tiles will be exported to the U.K., USA, Japan and the Middle East countries.

Entry forms have been posted to businesses across Geelong and are available from the awards co-ordinators at www.thecommunicators.com.au.

Organisers are encouraging any business considering entering this year’s awards to attend one of the sessions.

Lily Stefanovic, area manager of Bunnings Warehouse and a past winner of the Geelong Advertiser Business of the Year said, “participants will pick up valuable tips for putting together a successful entry and will complete at least a 50% draft of their entry before they leave the session.  Members of the judging panel and past winners will be present to pass on the benefit of their experience in the awards and preparing an entry”.

Past winner of the two businesses awards, Sharon Nicola of the Gordon Institute of TAFE School of Business and Management will be the facilitator for the eight Briefing Workshops. She will be assisted by members of the judging panel.

Sharon said, “ our aim will be to have each participant complete a substantial part of their entry, leaving only the fine tuning to be completed after the workshop.  Each criteria is reviewed, discussed about what is required by the judges and time is provided to for participants to start working on their application.

“The two-hour workshops are interactive and all attending will be able to access the judges and the process will be to guide the entrants through a step-by-step process. A sample entry will be provided to each attendee at the workshop”.

Lloyd Gosling, judge of the awards for eight years and when as marketing manager at Pilkington a past winner of the outright award said, “ These sessions help organisations to take stock of their business as the criteria address the five main elements of running a successful business- vision, marketing, operations, HR and customer service.  They also have the benefit of significant recognition and publicity if they are successful”

Entrants will also have the benefit of access to students from the Business and Management Department of the Gordon Institute of TAFE and Deakin University’s Faculty of Business and Law to assist them with their entry. An Application for assistance is available within the entry form and close on Friday, March 16.  Preference is given to first year entrants.

Briefing Workshops will be held at:
Gordon Institute of TAFE Gallery
Tuesday, March 6, 2007- 6.00pm to 8.00pm
Thursday, March 8, 2007- 9.15am to 11.30am
Friday, March 16, 2007-9.15am to 11.30am

Surf Coast Shire Offices
Monday, March 19, 2007-6.00pm to 8.00pm
Borough of Queenscliffe Offices
Wednesday, March 21, 2007-6.00pm to 8.00pm

Geelong Chamber of Commerce Office
Thursday, March 22, 2007- 6.00pm to 8.00pm
Corio Shopping Centre Board Room
Monday, March 26, 2007-6.00pm to 8.00pm

Central Geelong Marketing- CoGG, Little Malop Street
Wednesday, March 28, 2007-6.00pm to 8.00pm

Bookings should be made with the co-ordinators, The Communicators, at 5222 5863 Email: gbx@thecommunicators.com.au Fax: 5222 2924

In the 22nd year of the awards, Barwon Regional Waste Management Group has come on board as sponsor of the Sustainable Business category.

Due to increased interest in the environment and sustainability the category what was Significant Project and Environment will break into two separate categories.

The Sustainable Business category will recognise businesses in the Geelong region that demonstrate achievements in reducing their environmental impact.  The Significant project category sponsored by Landlink will continue.

Hundreds of businesses and organisations across Victoria have changed the way they deal with waste, through their waste reduction plans, designed to cut waste, costs and improve efficiencies.

We have all seen the success of household recycling; now businesses are taking that same approach and action into the workplace.

The Sustainable Business category will enable businesses that are environmentally committed to receive recognition for their change in practices.

The Barwon Regional Waste Management Group are creating an environment movement in the Geelong area that will lead to a more sustainable and ‘low waste’ Geelong.

The new category will recognise businesses in the Geelong region that demonstrate achievements in reducing their environmental impact in one or more of the following areas:
· waste minimisation & recycling
· water efficiency
· biodiversity conservation
· reduction in carbon emissions

John Loughnan, from award co-ordinators The Communicators, said, “This new category for sustainable business will enable many Geelong businesses, both small and large, to showcase their operations and the success that they have achieved”.

Two hour briefing workshops for potential entrants will be held at the following times:
· Gordon TAFE Gallery on Tuesday, March 6, from 6.00 – 8.00pm
· Gordon TAFE Gallery on Thursday, March 8, from 9.15 – 11.00am
· Gordon TAFE Gallery on Wednesday, March 14, from 9.15 – 11.00am

For bookings or further information, phone the Awards Hotline on 5222 5863 or
visit www.thecommunicators.com.au and follow the Business Awards links.
Media inquiries: please phone Liz Loughnan on 5221 7133 or mobile 0412 353 738

Since completion of its upgrade in December 2005, the new look Corio Shopping Centre has been wowing shoppers and retailers alike, with over 7 million shoppers visiting the facility.

The Centre’s two-year $35 million transformation upgrade began in 2004 with the refurbishment of Coles supermarket and K-Mart.  The upgrade also delivered a bold, new contemporary look, creative use of natural lighting, an expanded food court and new mall areas.

Centre Manager Russell Yelland believes that the Retail Category of Geelong’s most prestigious business awards was an important next step for the shopping precinct.

“The new Corio Shopping Centre is a well-established icon and a new retail hub that continues to meet the needs of the people of Corio.”

Mr Yelland said, “We hope that sponsoring the Retail Category will not only encourage businesses in Corio to take part but encourages businesses from all around Geelong.”

This is the 22nd Year of the annual Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards,

Awards organiser John Loughnan welcomed Corio Shopping Centre as a new sponsor and encouraged retailers to enter, saying that said the category was an important one.

Mr Loughnan said several free briefing workshops in the lead up to entry cut off on May 12 would help businesses prepare.

The first workshop will be held at the Gordon TAFE on March 6, with Corio Shopping Centre holding a session on Monday, March 26.

An entry template is available by phoning The Communicators on 5222 5863 or by visiting www.thecommunicators.com.au and following the Business Awards links.
Media inquiries: please phone Liz Loughnan on 5221 7133 or mobile 0412 353 738

The award category is defined by organisations that provide a service to consumers and/or industry.

VECCI will continue to sponsor the Commercial Services Micro to Small Business
(1-15 employees) Award.

Opening its doors this week, the Australian Technical College is a new non-government school for Year 11 and 12 students.

The College is located at the Geelong Manufacturing Industry Training Centre in East Geelong

An industry-led board governs the College, with the majority of members coming from local business including Shell Refinery, Geelong Manufacturing Council, Ford Motor Company, Alcoa and Lyons Construction.

The College will initially provide training in metal and engineering, building and construction, and automotive trades.

Trade training will be combined with the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) and part-time employment.

Awards organiser John Loughnan said the various categories meant businesses big and small and from a variety of industries and sectors had an equal chance of taking home a prize.

Mr Loughnan said that while the deadline remained more than a month away, businesses intending to enter would be wise to get started on their entries now.

“Time gets away from you when you are running a business, and while the entry process does take a little bit of time the benefits of entering are well worth the effort,” he said.

Mr Loughnan said the entry process was made easier by following the guidelines given in the entry template, which is available by phoning The Communicators on 5222 5863 or by visiting www.thecommunicators.com.au and following the Business Awards links.

Media inquiries: please phone Liz Loughnan on 5221 7133 or mobile 0412 353 738

Diversitat is the 2007 sponsor of the NOT FOR PROFIT/COMMUNITY SERVICES category.

Diversitat has the largest, integrated community network in regional Victoria and represents the interests of culturally and linguistically diverse residents in the South Western region of Victoria and recently assisted a number of Sudanese families settle into the area.

Diversitat was originally the Geelong Ethnic Communities Council.

It has expanded its services to include the acquisition of 94.7 Pulse FM community radio, Wholefoods, Creative Recycling, Training, Youth Services, Aged Care and an Employment service.

It has also developed over the past 25 years the extremely successful Pako St Festa.

Awards organiser John Loughnan said the various categories meant businesses big and small and from a variety of industries and sectors had an equal chance of taking home a prize.

Mr Loughnan said that it was important to diversify each year and it was encouraging that Diversitat’s involvement may encourage different businesses to enter.

“The awards offer entrants a chance for recognition of business excellence and also serve as a great staff motivator.”

For further information please contact The Communicators on 5222 5863 or by visiting www.thecommunicators.com.au and following the Business Awards links.

Media inquiries: please phone Liz Loughnan on 5221 7133 or mobile 0412 353 738

Entrants have the chance to demonstrate their organisation’s excellence while gaining widespread recognition and acknowledgement of their success.

Now in its 22nd year, the prestigious awards continue to reflect the changing nature of business in the region with the addition of the new Sustainable Business category, focusing on environmental practices and projects.

The new award gives this year’s entrants a choice of 19 categories in which to showcase their organisation’s excellence.

Blair Burr, general manager of awards patron the Geelong Advertiser, said entrants gained a valuable opportunity to evaluate their business’ processes and management.

“These awards have become increasingly important to the Geelong business community by providing an opportunity to recognise the achievement of a variety of businesses ranging from single operators to large organisations,” Mr Burr said.

Awards co-ordinator John Loughnan from The Communicators said each member of the judging panel would personally assess every written entry, allocating points out of 500.  Once this was complete, two members of the judging panel would visit each entrant at their work site, shop or institution.

“When they visit the entrant, they will be on the look out for organisations that take pride in demonstrating their operations and are keen to build on the impression created by their written submission” Mr Loughnan said.

“Judges will give points for vision and leadership, communication, human resource management, operational process and results and customer service”.

The organisation that secures the highest number of points in their category will be named winner, with these 19 category winners judged to determine the 2007 Geelong Advertiser Business of the Year.

The overall winner will take home an imposing etched glass trophy depicting Corio Bay handmade by Wathaurong Glass.

For further information, please contact The Communicators on 5222 5863 or by visiting www.thecommunicators.com.au and following the Business Awards links.

The forms and photographic consumables supplier also won the Harwood Andrews Lawyers Large Business Award category of the 21st annual Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards.

And if that wasn’t enough, the Breakwater company was also inducted into the Awards Hall of Fame.

Express Promotions won category awards in 2004 and 2005, with this third win cementing its spot among the excellence awards elite.

Only seven other organisations have qualified for the business awards Hall of Fame since they were established in 1986.  They include Beacon Resort Queenscliff, Village Cinemas Geelong, Air Radiators, Deakin Management Centre, Bellarine Secondary College, Midway Wood Products and Geelong Art Supplies.

Judging Panel chairman Dan Simmonds described Express Promotions’ entry as excellent, saying that the company continually innovated to expand its target markets.

“This is a business that is always setting itself new challenges; striving to better itself and to provide greater rewards not only to shareholders but also to employees,” Mr Simmonds said.

“The company encourages its staff to put forward ideas for improvement – many of which have been implemented – and puts in place special incentives to reward the team for its efforts.”

Founded in 1983, Express Promotions is now Australia’s largest supplier of business forms and stationery.

The company currently supplies and supports more than 20,000 business customers in Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia.

The business comprises of Forms Express, providing statement printing and billing delivery services to SMEs and local government, and Mercury Promotions, which offers branded packaging and photographic consumables to the photo-finishing industry.

GEELONG ADVERTISER BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARD RECIPIENTS

Geelong Advertiser Business of the Year
Express Promotions

Harwood Andrews Lawyers Large Business Award
Express Promotions

Target Australia Retail Award
Waurn Ponds Pharmacy

Powercor Government Funded Award
City Learning and Care, City of Greater Geelong

Snap Printing Not for Profit Award
Barwon Youth Accommodation Service

City of Greater Geelong Manufacturing Award
Adams Print

Hardings Hardware Building Award
MB Pre-Fab Framing

Borough of Queenscliffe Tourism Accommodation Award
Big4 Anglesea

Landlink Property Group Significant Project and Environment Award
Godfrey Hirst Australia

RACV Business Insurance Attractions, Events and Services Award
The Carousel

Scotchmans Hill Hospitality Award
Fishermen’s Pier

Bendigo Bank Innovation & Research Award
Austeng

VECCI Commercial Services Award
dentalspa.com

Central Geelong City Management Central Geelong Business Award
Chapman Welsh Financial Services

Shell Refining Geelong Small Business Award
Sweeney Todd Waste Disposal

Geelong Chamber of Commerce Micro Business Award
Classic Fireplaces & Barbeques

Lyons Construction Medium Business Award
People At Work

Australia Post New and Emerging Business Award
Run M Ragged

Gordon Institute of TAFE Best First Year Entry
Truffleduck

The Communicators Judges’ Award
Barwon Health – Jigsaw Young People’s Health Service

Geelong Advertiser Special Recognition Awards
Drysdale Motors
Freedom Bay Cruises
Marble House
Cravings Without the Guilt Café

Gordon Institute of TAFE
School of Business Management Award
Amanda Schram (assisting Geelong Baseball Incorporated)

Deakin University Faculty of Business & Law
Business Internship Award
Tess Power (assisting Bead Werks)

A record 550 people will take to the red carpet tomorrow night for the gala event at Kardinia Heights Centre, Bell Post Hill.

Over a sumptuous three-course meal, the awards sponsors will name the 19 category winners and one outright winner. Special recognition awards will also be presented, including four $1000 advertising packages with the Geelong Advertiser.

A lucky door prize will see one attendee win a double accommodation voucher for the stunning RACV Cape Schanck Resort, provided by sponsor RACV Business Insurance.

John Loughnan for The Communicators, which coordinates the awards, said this year’s event was already shaping up as the biggest ever.

“The response to the awards in this, its 21st year, has been fantastic, with a record number of entries and a very high calibre of submissions,” Mr Loughnan said.

“Many people have volunteered their time to ensure this year’s awards are another success, and I would especially like to thank the judges for their commitment and hard work.

“Now we can look forward to a wonderful and entertaining night that showcases and celebrates the best of business in Geelong.”

Commencing at 6pm, awards attendees will enjoy entertainment that includes singer Angie Hilton and comedic MC Peter Rowsthorn, of Kath & Kim fame. They will also dine on delicious food prepared by Sladen House and indulge in wines from Scotchmans Hill amidst floral bouquets provided by Smellies.

Thursday’s Geelong Advertiser will feature the full coverage of the night’s events and all the winners.

All the preparations are now in place to ensure an unforgettable gala night next Wednesday, July 26.

In the lead up to the big night, we introduce the last in our series of entrant profiles.

Hedrena Textiles
In the tough business of clothing design, manufacture and retail, Hedrena Textiles has managed to carve itself a successful niche.

Launched in Geelong in 1992, Hedrena worked with the CSIRO to develop a fabric that was itch and prickle free, pill resistant, lightweight and capable of being machine washed and tumble dried. The result was the 100 per cent superfine, merino wool fabric that forms the basis of the company’s range of garments.

Hedrena operates six retail stores through Victoria, NSW and South Australia and is stocked in 39 independent outlets.

MB Pre-Fab Framing
MB Pre-Fab is the Australian Timber Merchants Association’s most awarded truss manufacturer, providing roof and floor truss and wall framing to commercial and owner builders for 28 years.

The company was the first in Australia to introduce a paperless wall framing set-up and also established a transport company to provide a more controlled product delivery service.

MB Pre-Fab manufactures products to client requirements, taking on many jobs that other manufacturers won’t, such as curved walls, bow trusses and raked walls.

In past five years the company has invested more than $3.8 million into the business, which now spans a large area of Leather and Tanner streets in Breakwater.

The Bended Elbow
Established by AHM – the management company behind the Elephant & Wheelbarrow and Bridey O’Reilly’s chain of pubs – The Bended Elbow is the second venue of its kind to open in regional Victoria.

Incorporating restaurant, bar and nightclub, The Bended Elbow caters to a range of age groups and interests.

Designed to replicate an authentic, traditional British pub atmosphere, the venue boasts a wide selection of international boutique beers and affordable, bistro style meals.

For the younger crew, INK nightclub offers live entertainment four nights a week, and a heated beer garden to make outdoor partying a winter possibility.

BIG4 Beacon Resort
Opened in 1970 to fill a void of self-contained accommodation in Queenscliff, BIG4 Beacon Resort continues to reinvent itself to keep up with the changing demands of holidaymakers.

Today, despite having reduced its physical size, the holiday park has upped the ante in terms of value-add services.

New arrivals receive bakery and BBQ order forms, with local food and liquor providers supplying direct to guests’ doors, leaving more time for R&R.

Year-round facilities such as an indoor heated pool and spa make the resort a viable winter choice for family holidays and group bookings, which means less dependence on the busy summer months.

Express Promotions
Forms and photographic consumables supplier Express Promotions has achieved its growth by focusing on niche markets, innovating to meet individual market sectors’ needs and excellence in customer service.

Based in Breakwater, the company currently supplies and supports more than 20,000 business customers in Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia.

Regularly launching new products, Express Promotions this year introduced a payroll outsourcing product for corporate customers that allows businesses to send their payroll data securely via the internet for printing, distribution and archiving.

City of Greater Geelong – Chiba Lotte Marines
In February, Geelong was abuzz as Japanese major league baseball team the Chiba Lotte Marines arrived in town for their spring training camp.

Having previously trained in Arizona, the team’s decision to use the Geelong Baseball Centre for their two-week stay was a considerable coup.

The visit is estimated to have injected more than $3.2 million into the local community, while the team’s contingent of 40 media representatives saw the region promoted to a massive Japanese audience.

The training sessions and Friendly Series matches saw the largest ever crowds attending the Waurn Ponds baseball facility.

Allpoints @ McManus
Based in Lara, Allpoints @ McManus has provided sales and property management services to the local community for more than 30 years.

Covering Lara, northern Geelong, Little River, Anakie and surrounds, the business has become a stalwart of its community – a position galvanised by managing director Tony McManus’ commitment to raising awareness about depression.

Following the loss of his brother Mick to the disease, Tony worked with Frank Costa to establish the inaugural beyondblue Cup played at Kardinia Park in April this year. The clash between the Cats and Hawthorn is set to become an annual fixture.

The Carousel
The distinctive curves of the Carousel Pavilion have become a landmark of the Geelong waterfront and its historic attractions integral to the precinct’s revitalisation.

Opened in 2000, the pavilion houses the fully restored c1892 Armitage Herschell carousel, Herschell-Spillman steam engine and replica c1898 Gavioli and Co band organ.

Operated by the City of Greater Geelong, the venue is a popular spot for birthday parties, private and corporate functions, wedding ceremonies, receptions and photo sessions.

Surrounded by Corio Bay, the Steampacket Gardens and the iconic Bay Walk Bollards, the Carousel Pavilion offers affordable, experience-based entertainment within a unique, heritage-rich setting.

Chapman Welsh Financial Services
Financial planners play a role in helping people achieve their dreams and aspirations, so being across the latest ways of meeting clients’ expectations is imperative. Chapman Welsh Financial Services are current undertaking a two-year project to research and implement the best technology to improve their practice. Systems identified to date include financial plan forecasting software, compliance templates and client relationship management applications.

The firm believes the new systems will lead to greater consistency in client advice and more accurate and standardised strategy methods for planners.

Accredited by AMP Financial Planning, Chapman Welsh specialised in retirement planning, wealth accumulation and personal risk protection.

The hardworking and dedicated awards judges have lodged all their scores and met to discuss which businesses deserve to be named best in their category.

And on July 26, amidst the excitement of a glittering event at Kardinia Heights Centre, 18 category winners and one overall winner will bask in the glory of their organisation’s success.

Tomorrow is the last day to book tickets to the awards ceremony, so if you haven’t done so already, phone 5221 7133 to secure your spot.

Today we profile eight businesses in contention for this year’s awards.

Freedom Bay Cruises
Geelong’s sparkling waterfront has developed into a major drawcard for tourists and one of the businesses showcasing its beauty is Freedom Bay Cruises.

Freedom Bay Cruises operates sightseeing cruises as well as offering a memorable venue for private and corporate functions.

Husband and wife team Craig and Julie Ballinger established the business in 2003, at a time when no other such service operated in the waterfront precinct.

With a strong focus on customer satisfaction and value for money the service has proved a hit with locals and out of town visitors alike, now welcoming onboard almost 10,000 visitors annually.

Waurn Ponds Pharmacy
Stephen and Linda Finlay have provided professional advice, pharmaceuticals and healthcare products to the Waurn Ponds community with for 20 years.

Starting when the local population was comparatively small, business planning and commitment enabled the Amcal franchise pharmacy to survive and grow with the community.

Central to its success has been its highly trained team, with staff numbers kept above industry standard to ensure customers receive maximum contact time.

The shop adheres to the Pharmacy Guild Quality Care Program and standards and was recently named 2006 Victorian Quality Care Pharmacy of the Year for excellence in health advice and patient service.

Geelong Marble House
The unique nature of stone ensures every product created at Geelong Marble House is a one-off piece of natural beauty.

But while each creation is different, the North Geelong business is consistent on quality with only A grade material used to produce its bench tops, countertops, fireplace hearths and other stoneware.

Products are made using granite, marble or reconstituted stone, a material comprising 94 per cent quartz stone, polymer binding and colours.

Servicing customers throughout Victoria, Geelong Marble House craftsmen take each project from inception through manufacture and installation while advising customers on stone structure, manufacturing processes, maintenance and care.

Austeng
When an engineering problem can’t be solved with an off-the-shelf answer, customers often turn to North Geelong company Austeng for a solution.

Austeng designs and manufactures special purpose equipment for industry as well as a range of ovens and furnaces, with many of the one-off projects requiring extensive research and development.

Among its most recent projects has been an automated large parts fettling machine for Ford Motor Company to eliminate manual variability and reduce OH&S issues.

The company is committed to developing engineering solutions for projects that might otherwise go overseas and in 2001 received the ISO Import Replacement Outstanding Achievement Award.

Sweeney Todd Waste Disposal
Sweeney Todd was established in 1994 to collect, transport and organise the disposal of health facilities’ clinical and related wastes. The company also provides specialised containers for clients’ waste as well as advice on clinical and related waste management.

Using a special treatment machine from the USA – currently the only one in the southern hemisphere – the waste is shredded, steam treated and compacted, rendering it bacterially and chemically inert and safe for landfill.

The company’s clients include government departments, laboratories, hospitals, research institutes, universities, schools, dentists and veterinary surgeries.

Ray’s Outdoors
Since setting up shop in Geelong in the 1950s, Ray’s Outdoors has grown to encompass 25 lifestyle stores across the country.

The popular one-stop outdoors shop now employs more than 600 staff on a casual or full time basis.

With a huge range that includes BBQs and outdoor furniture to clothing, camping and hiking needs, the retailer believes it distinguishes itself through its exceptional customer service and product knowledge.

Ray’s offers a variety of leading retail brands as well as its own Wild Country and Outdoor Expedition brands, and is now also distributing to wholesale markets through its Ray’s Direct division.

BIG4 Anglesea Holiday Park
Anglesea’s BIG4 Holiday Park is committed not only to ensuring its visitors enjoy a seamless holiday, but that they do so in a way that is gentle to the local environment.

In 2005 Anglesea’s BIG4 became the first holiday park in Australia to attain benchmark level with Green Globe 21. The international benchmarking system is designed to help the international travel and tourism industry attain environmental sustainability.

Operated by the Bone family for 21 years, BIG4 Anglesea is renowned for its quality, cleanliness, customer service and facilities.

Accommodation options range from tent and caravan sites to budget cabins and luxury spa units.

Lord of the Isles Tavern
A highly awarded bistro and gaming venue, Lord of the Isles has been owned and operated by Peter and Jan Burnett for 26 years.

Among its accolades the tavern has won the Australian Hotels Association’s State Awards for Best Country Bistro four times and been named Best Australian Bistro in the Diners Club National Awards for Excellence three times.

Bernie’s bistro changes its menu every three months, supporting its delectable modern Australian selection with daily seasonal specials.

It also has an extensive wine list with regional, Victorian and imported wines as well as standard and imported beers on tap.

In addition to sponsoring the Tourism Attractions, Events & Services category, RACV Business Insurance is providing as a door prize – a double accommodation voucher for the stunning RACV Cape Schanck Resort.

This includes one night’s accommodation, breakfast and free parking at the recently purchased luxury RACV resort on Victoria’s spectacular Mornington Peninsula.

The resort boasts 52 ocean view rooms, a magnificent 18-hole golf course and the top-class Cape Restaurant, which offers à la carte dining drawing on fresh regional produce and local wines.

Guests can also spoil themselves with indulgent buffet breakfasts, long lunches, afternoon teas and intimate dinners.

If burning off the calories on the golf course is not your thing, there are also tennis courts, table tennis tables, a volleyball court, heated swimming pool and a 4km jogging track.

RACV Geelong manager, Simon McKinnon, said RACV Business Insurance was thrilled to be involved as a category sponsor encouraging excellence within the Geelong region.

“We offer this additional prize to demonstrate RACV Business Insurance’s commitment to the Geelong business community,” Mr McKinnon said.

The prize will be announced at the Geelong Advertiser Business Awards ceremony at Kardinia Heights Centre on Wednesday, 26 July. Tickets to the glittering event are on sale until July 12. To book phone 5221 7133.

Winners will be decided in each of 18 separate categories, with one standout business to take home the coveted Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Award trophy.

The successful businesses will receive their accolades at a gala function to be emceed by popular comedian Peter Rowsthorn.

Tickets to the exciting event are already being snapped up. Anyone wanting to secure their place should phone 5221 7133 before July 12.

Today we profile another eight businesses in the running for an award.

Duffs Jewellers
Started in 1927 by Frank Duff senior in St Arnaud and expanding to Geelong in 1951, Duffs Jewellers is now in its third generation, run by grandsons Ross and Ben.

The business operates out of three central locations, each with its own speciality. The Westfield Bay City Plaza counter is the spot for fast turnaround repairs, the Market Square Shopping Plaza shop offers medium to high-end goods, while the Moorabool St store is a destination for those hunting special treasures.

Duffs offers watches; gemstones; custom-made, new and estate jewellery; giftware, paintings and crystal.

The business also runs a mezzanine art gallery supporting local artists.

dentalspa.com
Dental appointments often invoke a bout of nerves in even the coolest customer. That’s among the reasons Dr Fleur Nicholson and Maritza Hall established dentalspa.com as a calming practice designed to operate outside the traditional clinical model.

Emphasising a preventive approach to dental care, dentalspa.com aims to make visits as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

There’re no white coats at this clinic, with all 12 staff wearing black and brown uniforms. All-female staff, flowers, soothing music and beautiful artworks also contribute to the relaxing environment.

Familiarisation visits for local kindergartens and use of modern equipment and technology are other features of the practice.

Geelong Adult Training & Education (GATE)
Currently celebrating 10 years of operation, GATE is a not-for-profit adult education provider operating in Geelong and the surrounding region.

With 30 core staff and150 sessional and contract teachers annually, GATE services some 2500 students each year.

Programs include vocational education, language and literacy training, English as a second language, personal development and youth training. GATE has also received government recognition for its programs aimed at changing the lives of female and young.

By providing courses at minimum costs using Government funding, GATE is able to remove some of the barriers to accessing learning opportunities.

Entertainment Publications
Fancy a free meal or a discounted hotel stay? Entertainment Books contain opportunities to try restaurants, attractions, activities, theatres, travel and accommodation throughout Australia with special introductory offers.

The Geelong, Surf Coast and Ballarat edition is now in its third year, with the latest edition released in April.

And while not available directly to the public, the discount books are sold as fundraisers for clubs, schools and other community groups.

Interestingly, the businesses featured in the book do not pay to be included. Rather they are selected based on awards, reviews and personal recommendations with their participation cost simply the discount they offer patrons.

Moving Home Solutions
Jane Korn has moved home 17 times, an experience that led her to set up personalised packing, unpacking and home set up service Moving Home Solutions.

The day before a move, the team packs and labels all belongings then, once the removalist has transferred everything to the new home, set to work unpacking. After an initial consultation to determine unpacking preferences, most clients go to work or go out for the day.

When they come home they find books in shelves, beds made up and clothes put away. The business can also coordinate other services including furniture removal, shopping and cleaning.

Bay Lifting & Testing
From heavy industry to 4WD enthusiasts, Bay Lifting & Testing provides a supply, design, manufacture, inspection and testing service for all lifting, lashing, hoisting and height safety equipment.

In addition to its North Shore facility, it is the only Australian company with a 115 tonne, fully enclosed mobile test rig. The rig allows for equipment testing, repair and manufacture in a fully enclosed OH&S worksafe environment at the customer’s site.  Documentation and certification is prepared at the on-board office when the job is complete.

Special services include maintenance of a computer-generated register of all items tested and an annual reminder program alerting customers when equipment is due for re-resting.

Jolie Image Photography
Jolie Image Photography uses the latest digital technology to offer memorable photo shoots to individuals, families, community groups and businesses.

The mother-daughter partnership brings a light-hearted approach to each sitting, with laughter, hugs and mischief encouraged.

Being digital, clients can view photos immediately after each sitting, choosing the ones they want printed, their preferred size and ideal frame. A CD of the originals is also available for clients to take home.

Jolie also assists community groups to use photography for fundraising, earning a commission from the sale of photos to their members.

Geelong & District Children’s Centre
Established in 1967 as a benevolent society, Geelong & District Children’s Centre currently caters for 78 children each day with a range of individual and small group programs including music, dancing, reading and outdoor activities. It is also the only centre in Geelong to operate a preschool kindergarten program accessible by youngsters attending childcare.

The centre maintains above-regulation staff coverage, with 32 childcare staff, including a maternal and child health nurse. And with a cook, cleaner, handyman and gardener also employed, the centre’s childcare staff are free to focus entirely on their young charges.

And while it might be a long way from Fountain Lakes, Brett – aka Peter Rowsthorn – reckons he can handle a room full of Geelong’s business best.

The popular comedian – who has earned a loyal following for his work on Kath & Kim and Channel 10’s Thank God You’re Here – will be master of ceremonies at the 21st annual Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards.

He will take to the stage at the Kardinia Heights Centre on July 26 to ensure entrants and their guests enjoy some comic relief amidst the nervous wait for the winners to be announced.

Rowsthorn is a stand-up comedy veteran, appearing on such shows as Denton, Hey, Hey It’s Saturday, Tonight Live, The Big Gig and Recovery.

He has brought characters to sidesplitting life in television series including Let The Blood Run Free and the Comedy Company, where he played uncool radio DJ Wild Man Col.

Rowsthorn is also a regular on Triple M radio’s The Cage and The Shebang programs. He also performed in the stage production of the Rocky Horror Picture Show as Riff Raf and later as Brad.

At this year’s Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards, Rowsthorn will have some fun with the crowd as well as guiding the evening’s more serious formalities.

Geelong’s top businesses will be vying for an award in one of 18 categories, as well as a shot at the top gong where one stand-out business will be named the outright winner.

Singer Angie Hilton will also entertain guests at the gala evening, which is to be held on July 26 at the Kardinia Heights Centre from 6pm.

Tickets are available now. To book your seat call 5221 7133 before July 12.

From funky little cafes and exclusive fashion boutiques to online retailers and manufacturing giants exporting across the globe, Geelong’s business community offers an impressive cross-section.

The region’s commercial achievements are celebrated each year through the Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards.

And with just days to go before the judges complete their site visits, the excitement is mounting as the city waits to learn which businesses will shine.

Today we profile eight of the contenders.

Classic Fireplaces and Barbeques
Established in 1975 as a wood heating and BBQ store, Classic Fireplaces and Barbeques prides itself on offering the leading brands in gas log fires, wood heaters and outdoor cooking.

The business services customers throughout the greater Geelong and coastal region and also works with local builders to supply top quality heating appliances for new homes.

Its major achievements have included being named among the top five Victorian dealers for Jetmaster Heat & Glo, achieving platinum dealer status with Weber and becoming a specialist dealer for Beefeater and Rinnai flame fire products.

Geelong Racing Club
Responsible for the race that stops Geelong, Geelong Racing Club is one of the biggest racing clubs outside a metropolitan area.

The GRC holds 21 race meetings per season, including Geelong Cup, the Boxing Day races as well as themed and charity race days.

The club aims to foster community interest and understanding about the contribution made by country racing to the social and economic wellbeing of the region.

Socially, there is little doubt the club offers a fun day out for individuals and businesses alike.

It’s also serious business, with the GRC’s activities injecting more than $45 million into the local economy.

Adams Print
This Breakwater print manufacturing company traces its roots back more than 110 years when Hubert Adams began printing gold mining claims during the Ballarat gold rush.

In 1922 Mr Adams moved his business to Geelong and, almost 80 years later, the current chapter began when the Shane and Robert Soutar together with Peter Braxton took over the company.

Investing in leading technology and ongoing staff training, Adams Print’s vision is to create print products of the highest national standard whilst developing the best tradespeople in the industry.

Its efforts have been recognised with the business taking home National Print Awards gold medals in 2004, 2005 and 2006.

Trident Fish Bar
Describing itself as a “boutique provider of quality fish products”, Trident Fish Bar has built its reputation on consistency and quality.

The family owned and operated shop is known for its locally caught calamari and whiting.

The family says its secret weapon lies in its batter; a closely guarded blend of three different flours that combine to create a crunchy finish.

Staff are also trained no to cook until the fryer temperatures reach at least 190 degrees Celsius, to ensure food cooks evenly and is never soggy.

Established in Queenscliff 15 years ago, trident now operates a second fish bar in Ocean Grove.

Barry Plant, South Barwon
Beginning life as Kidman Real Estate in the 1950s, Barry Plant South Barwon is the current incarnation of a successful real estate business.

Specialising in the sale of residential real estate and including some property management, the franchise operates out of offices in Highton and Waurn Ponds.

In an industry with notoriously high employee turnover, Barry Plant South Barwon supports its team through in-house training and weekly one-on-one meetings between staff and the general manager.

The result? Staff has grown from four to 19 since 1990 and the business has lost just one employee in the past six years.

Julian’s Restaurant at Bellarine Estate
Fresh, local, seasonal, simple and stylish are the five points that make up the philosophy of Julian’s Restaurant.

Situated in Bellarine Estate with views over Corio Bay and the rolling hills of the vineyard, the restaurant is a popular destination for leisurely lunches through to weddings and corporate functions.

An epicurean menu enables diners to enjoy Bellarine Estate wines that are matched to individual dishes, while a range of gourmet produce for sale under the Julian’s brand is currently in development.

With a growing weddings market, the venue has recently built a patio to provide a comfortable leisure area for pre-dinner drinks and canapés.

Barwon Youth Accommodation Service
Across Greater Geelong and Colac, at least 20 young people are without safe accommodation on any given night of the week. Barwon Youth Accommodation Service (BYAS) is a not for profit agency that has for 20 years worked to prevent and reduce youth homelessness in the region.

Of the more than 1000 requests for assistance each year, the majority some or are referred to BYAS because of accommodation and relationship problems, while health and financial issues are also factors.

BYAS provides direct information, advice and assistance to young people as well as providing crisis accommodation and family mediation where appropriate.

People At Work
Established less than 20 years go, People at Work has offices in Geelong, Brooklyn and Melbourne’s CBD and services more than 470 clients across 48 industry sectors.

With core services in permanent and temporary recruitment and human resource consulting, the business’ major markets include local and state government, health, manufacturing, food processing and professional services.

Outside Australia, the company provides human resource consulting in Singapore and Hong Kong.

With the latest software and systems ensuring the best outcomes for its clients and with employers given guarantees on candidates, People at Work is the only Victorian firm outside Melbourne with recruitment industry best practice certification.

For the entrants of the 21st Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards, the fruits of their dreams, passions and hard work are currently under the microscope as the awards judges scrutinise their operations.

But the nail biting and nerves will all be worth it when the best businesses in Geelong are celebrated at a gala event next month.

Today we profile eight of those in the running.

Merle’s Home Made Cakes
Merle Williams dreamed of opening a cake shop that paid homage to the family recipes of yesteryear. She wanted her shop to focus on quality and freshness and to be a place where customers would never have to endure fake cream or insipid sponges.

Beginning with a Sunday market stall in 1991, that vision grew to become Merle’s Home Made Cakes – a business established on a foundation of word-of-mouth and repeat custom.

With a large bakery and 10 full-time staff, Merle’s keeps its customers happy with a range of special occasion and everyday cakes, slices, trifles, pavlovas, sweet and savoury pies, lasagne, and quiches.

Avalon Airport Australia
With more than one million passengers having passed through its doors since 2004, Avalon Airport is Australia’s fastest growing airport.

But behind the fanfare and commercial success of the Linfox enterprise, some quieter work is underway to give back to the local community.

Recognising the environmental destruction caused by salinity on the aerodrome property, Avalon joined forces with governments and community groups to establish a working group and strategy to rejuvenate the land.

Since commencing the program in 2000, Avalon has planted 20,000 trees and native grasses with success evidenced through receding salinity and a return of birds and other native wildlife.

Speedy Stamps
An appreciation of the possibilities of online marketing is paying dividends for this newcomer in the rubber stamp business.

Established in late 2004, Speedy Stamps initially supplied its pre-inked rubber stamps to individuals and businesses in Geelong and the Surf Coast.

But the world market is now opening its door, following development of an in-house online ordering system and investment in an online pay-per-click advertising campaign.

With customers including Virgin Mobile, KPMG and the Department of Defence, the business hopes to grow to a stage where it can be replicated through licensing agreements with small business operators in other states.

Curves
For many women, the idea of attending a traditional gym is a daunting one – not to mention finding the time to get the most out of their membership. Curves is a weight loss fitness centre specifically set up for women who are unable or unwilling to attend a “regular” gym.

The centre offers circuit training on hydraulic equipment, with a coach providing assistance and encouragement.

Recognising that many women are time poor, Curves is set up to enable clients to complete their workout in half an hour. Membership fees are waived when clients donate a bag of groceries to the local food bank.

City of Greater Geelong, Aged Care and Disability Services
Funded by local, state and federal governments, the CoGG’s Aged Care and Disability Services assists some 4000 clients through disability advocacy, senior citizens centres and community aged care.

In operation since council amalgamation in 1994, services help people remain independent by providing home care, personal care, respite, food services, home maintenance and physical activities.

The CoGG’s Aged Care and Disability Services is currently working with community groups – including those who will retire in the next 10 to 15 years – to develop activities that will meet the region’s future needs.

Cheeky’s Dance and Active Wear
With more than 25 years teaching, choreographing and performing, Jennifer Firth has established herself as the doyenne of dance gear in Geelong.

Indeed, 85 per cent of Cheeky’s business comes through word of mouth, with phone orders coming from as far afield as Warrnambool, Stawell and Hamilton.

The Pakington St dance retailer supplies quality dancing shoes and uniforms, ladies swimwear, casual streetwear and gymwear.

By staying up to date with new styles and technology, Cheeky’s prides itself on its ability to advise customers on the best products for specific dancing needs.

And for those unable to find standard sizes to fit, the store also offers customised shoes and swimwear.

Deakin Management Centre
A category winner in 1994, 1995 and 1996; an outright winner in 1996; and inducted into the Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards Hall of Fame in 2004, Deakin Management Centre is back for another go in this year.

The residential conference facility delivers specialised services that include end-to-end conference planning, technical and logistical support throughout an event, recording participants’ dietary requirements for future reference and assigning return facilitators to their preferred rooms.

This attention to detail is among the reasons 85 per cent of the centre’s corporate and non-university business came from return or referred clients in 2005.

Betta Steel
Betta Steel opened for business three years ago to provide an alternative to the larger steel distributors operating in the Geelong region.

The Moolap-based steel broker sells to government bodies, tradespeople and direct to the public, with customers able to deal directly with owner Lance Barley.

Selling a variety of steels and related hardware, Betta Steel cuts steel to suit customers’ needs and offers a 24-hour delivery service.

Lance also drops in to visit customers to ensure they are satisfied with his products and services and to pick up any idea for further improvement.

The site visits give entrants the opportunity to showcase aspects of their business that could not be fully described in their written applications.

Scores for the written entries are already in, with those results to be averaged and then combined with the scores awarded following the site visits.

The outcome will be revealed at a gala dinner on July 26 when 18 category winners and the outright winner are named.

Today we profile seven of the businesses that will be strutting their stuff for the awards judges over the next few weeks.

Bartlett’s Waste Management
Family owned and operated, Bartlett’s Waste Management has supplied waste management services to Victorian local governments and businesses for the past 20 years.

The company designed and built the Geelong region’s first wastewater recycling plant, with treated water re-used in plant operations, supplied free for the City of Greater Geelong’s tree-watering program and to the CFA.

The company’s latest development is Hydro Excavation; a process that uses high-pressure water instead of traditional machinery to dig holes. The method is safer for workers, gentler on the environment and reduces the risk of costly damage to underground pipes and cables.

Bayside Furniture
Modern designs in solid, recycled-timber furniture have been the hallmark of Bayside Furniture since it opened its showroom doors in 2001.

The Pakington St business provides its retail and wholesale customers with indoor and outdoor furniture in a range of timbers including teak, beech, wicker and oak.

Staff receive regular training to keep them fully informed about the various timbers, product ranges and design features available.

Because Bayside designs and makes its own furniture, customers’ needs are always accommodated, while its warehousing system ensures products are never out of stock.

Digital Video Vault
With a background in graphic design, digital imaging and video editing, it is little wonder that Digital Video Vault provides more than the average video production service.

The micro business produces corporate, wedding and event videos that have earned a reputation for attention to detail, creative excellence and the latest in production techniques.

Corporate videos cater for businesses of all sizes and budgets, while Digital Video Vault’s wedding division is claimed to be the choice for “brides with style”.

For the Baby Boomers and Gen-Xers whose special moments may have been captured on VHS, Digital Video Vault can transfer the precious footage to DVD.

Best of Care
Best of Care is about helping people with disability, dementia or old age continue living in their own homes by providing personalised, flexible care and support.

Established 11 years ago and based in Hamlyn Heights, the private business provides its services to more than 550 clients and carers throughout the Barwon region.

Its services promote independence and include personal care, assisting with shopping, meal preparation, child minding, respite and home nursing.

Best of Care also offers a 24/7 call support service, enabling it to provide care within one hour of a request being made.

Baseball Geelong
If you hadn’t heard about Geelong’s world-class baseball facilities, then the arrival of Japan’s Major League Chiba Lotte Marines for a training camp this year should have made the point.

Baseball Geelong plans to leverage its success to date by attracting more Asian major league teams, securing national competitions and increasing participation in the sport within the local community.

With a $4.5 million investment in the Geelong Regional Baseball Centre at Waurn Ponds, the organisation aims to foster and develop the sport within the region while stamping Geelong’s place on the global baseball map.

Barwon Health – Jigsaw Young People’s Health Service
An innovative health service designed specifically for young people is the basis of Barwon Health’s Jigsaw program, which recently celebrated its first birthday.

Situated within Corio Shopping Centre, the service provides counselling, drug treatment, a youth-friendly bulkbilling GP and mental health and disability support for people aged 16 to 25.

Created in partnership with Clockwork Young People’s Health Service and Pathways Rehabilitation and Support Services, with funding from United Way, the program seeks to fill the recognised gap in health service provision during the transition from child to adult.

More than 330 young people have so far benefited from the service, with a similar model planned for the Surf Coast.

Geelong Financial Group
Less than five years ago Simon Sutterby was running his financial planning business out of a spare room at home with a book of just 12 clients.

Today, Geelong Financial Group has more than 1100 clients, six full time staff and is housed in refurbished offices in the heart of Geelong’s CBD.

Geelong Financial Group’s business model is built on referrals from a loyal network of accountants, lawyers, financial planners and real estate agents.

The business provides finance packages tailored to clients’ situations, with five independent “service cells” offering financial planning, business broking, property advocacy, stock broking and property inspection and development all from the Ryrie St premises.

Judged submitted their score sheets on Friday, applauding the high quality of entries from a record number of applicants.

Judging Panel Chairman Dan Simmonds said the 13 judges had a tough job ahead to determine the category and outright winners.

“The standard of entries we have received is a fantastic reflection of the diversity and quality of the organisations operating in the Geelong region today,” Mr Simmonds said. “From what we have seen so far, the competition will be fierce.”

In the next phase of their search for excellence, judges will visit each entrant at their place of business. Visiting in pairs, the judges hope to gain a better understanding of what sets each entrant apart from others in their category.

Today we profile seven local businesses vying for their place in the spotlight.

jayk
As a successful beauty therapist, Sharon Hall often heard men express their need for a salon that specialised in male grooming. Sharon decided to tap into the unmet market and in February 2004, jayk opened its doors as Geelong’s first male-only body salon.

The all-female staff offers treatments and customer service expressly designed for men. This includes the use of male-specific products, quick service, no waiting and no up-selling. Services range from facials and pedicures to spray tanning and massage, with waxing by far the most popular.

Sharon says customers range in age from 20 to 50 and are almost evenly divided between tradesman and white-collar professionals.

Chris Mackey and Associates
Over 11 years, Chris Mackey and Associates has grown to become Geelong’s largest psychology practice. Employing 12 psychologists, the Geelong West practice assesses and treats children and adults with mental and physical health problems as well as difficulties relating to health, work and relationships.

Clinical research is another important aspect of the business’ development, with staff psychologists presenting their work at national and international conferences.
The clinic includes welcoming consulting rooms, group therapy rooms, a seminar room, staff retreat and research library.

Staff wellbeing is treated as seriously as that of clients, with practitioner workloads reviewed weekly to prevent burnout.

Fishermen’s Pier
Renowned as one of Victoria’s top seafood restaurants, Fishermen’s Pier is committed to continual improvement. Day or night, the restaurant boasts one of the best views in Geelong. And while the inspiring panorama might be the initial attraction, according to Fishermen’s Pier’s owners it’s the delicious seafood that brings diners back.

Executive Chef Simon Parrott keeps up to date on the most recent trends in seafood, regularly reviewing menu and wine lists. In the dining room traditional customer service is the focus, with regular patrons known by name along with their likes and dislikes.

Ocean Inlet
Ocean Inlet aims to provide beautiful and accessible holiday accommodation. Situated in Fairhaven, with stunning ocean and lighthouse views, the property offers accommodation to suit luxury travellers, those with special needs and those looking for “champagne on a beer budget”.

Accommodating up to eight visitors at a time, Ocean Inlet epitomises the private seaside haven. Its two-storey Shorehouse is perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway, while the Coral Cove apartment has attracted an award for its wheelchair friendly design. Nestled among the ti trees and bushland garden are two budget pavilions that each accommodate two people.

Home Ideas Centre
Located in North Geelong, the Home Ideas Centre gives homeowners, builders and renovators the opportunity to view products and services from more than 160 exhibitors without obligation.

Akin to a never-ending home show, visitors to the centre receive a card with a list of numbers that correspond with exhibitors’ stands. Circling products and services of interest, visitors then hand the card back to front desk to receive relevant brochures.

They can also go on to a mailing list to receive further information about new products as well as invitations to monthly theme nights on topics such as kitchen design, heating and bathroom makeovers.

Hommy’s Quality Meats
Customer service is king at Hommy’s Quality Meats in Drysdale. Owner and third-generation butcher Peter Hommelhoff has even done a cooking course to better advise customers on preparing his choice cuts.

The butcher has become especially well known for his hams and other smallgoods, which are also sold to local restaurants and vineyards.

The shop van is a common sight around Drysdale and surrounds, with deliveries made to local retailers as well as elderly customers and parents without cars who can’t make it in to the store.

An insistence on using only the best ingredients has led to a swag of awards – and plenty of satisfied customers.

Bellarine Bait and Tackle
Established in November 2001, Bellarine Bait and Tackle has built its reputation on matching products to customers’ individual needs.

The Drysdale store was established to fill a perceived gap in the market for a full range of angling products as well as up-to-date fishing advice for enthusiasts on the Bellarine Peninsula.

An after-hours service for customers who can’t visit during normal business hours is an appreciated point of difference.

Husband and wife owners Geoffrey and Shirley Green are also active in educating the next generation of anglers in sustainable fishing practices, running clinics that teach kids about the necessity of preserving future fish stocks.

Each application is judged for excellence in criteria including leadership, marketing, operations and results, human resource management and customer service.

Each criterion is marked out of 100 points.  The points allotted by the 13 judges are averaged to give the entry a total out of 500 points.

The judges then visit the entrants in pairs, again allocating points out of 100 for each criterion.  The scores achieved from for the entry and from the judges’ site visit is then averaged to provide a final score.

Today we profile seven entrants out of the highest recorded number of entries in the 21 years of the awards.

Autospa Carwash Café

Autospa Carwash Café opened in late 2005 replacing the self-serve Dazzlers car wash facility.  It is a state-of-the-art full service car wash where all vehicles are vacuumed on arrival, washed and hand dried.

Services available include Regular, Deluxe and Prestige wash options. Carpet and seat shampooing, and polish and shine services are also available.  The Regular service includes a chamois dry, vacuum, removal of brake dust, wiping down door, boot jambs, wheel arches and side mirrors.

Autospa’s operations are fully computerised, enabling the business to track all vehicles, purchasing patterns, discounts and responses to marketing strategies.

Barwon Regional Waste Management Group and Waste Wise Education Centre

Barwon Waste Management Group is a state leader in waste minimisation through a program of promotion and education.  Established in 1996, it is responsible for solid waste management across the greater Geelong region, Colac Otway, Surfcoast and Queenscliffe.

The aim of the program is for the Barwon region to have zero waste to landfill without materials first being processed by 2010.

The group also has a successful Waste Wise Education Centre at North Geelong.  The centre teaches students about the benefits and importance of waste minimisation and how to implement appropriate strategies in the community.

The Victorian Marine Science Consortium

In 1989 Deakin, Melbourne, Monash, RMIT and Victoria universities, together with the Australian Maritime College, CSIRO and Primary Industries Research Victoria formed a consortium dedicated to marine research.

The consortium has since enabled thousands of undergraduates to attend extended field courses.  The current facility at Queenscliff has a sophisticated flow-through sea water system, ecotoxicology facilities the latest in scientific equipment and a custom-built research vessel.

Field courses allow undergraduates to investigate ecological interactions between flora and fauna as well as develop their own research projects.

Postgraduate research projects include environmental biology, fisheries biology and ecology, marine botany and animal physiology.

Run M Ragged Indoor Play Centre

An indoor play centre and café specialising in children’s parties is the basis of the Run M Ragged centre.  Opened in 2005, it operates seven days a week.

The facilities include an obstacle course, jumping castle, three-lane carnival slide and a terrifying 81-degree drop slide.  It has 130-seat café for adults.

More than 7000 people have used the facility since it opened with 74 per cent referred by word of mouth from satisfied customers.

City Learning and Care Centre

City Learning and Care operates seven day care centres operated by the City of Greater Geelong.  The current centres are located at Belmont, Corio, Drysdale, Newtown, Norlane, Ocean Grove and Whittington.

The centres provide support for families and a safe, stimulating environment for more than 750 children weekly.  The children attending are aged six weeks to 6 years.

The centres employ 132 staff and provide important training opportunities for new child care staff.  In 2004-2005, the centres provided care for a total of 1018 individual infants and young children from 841 families.

Green Diesel Corp

Ron Kukler’s Green Diesel Corp has revolutionised diesel fuel injecting systems worldwide through its emission reduction and power enhancing process.

The technology has achieved worldwide acclaim as it offers fuel savings of about 30 per cent over conventional systems.  At the same time, it delivers a 30 per cent improvement in engine power and a much longer torque curve.

Awards have included Australian Invention of the Year in 2003 and the Weekly Times Australian Machine of the Year. Internationally, Green Diesel won a ‘Class A’ gold medal at the 2005 Salon International Des Inventions in Geneva, Switzerland.  Mr Kukler received an Outstanding Alumni Award from the Gordon Institute of TAFE.

Truffleduck

Commencing in 1988 as a lunchtime café in central Geelong, Hugh Palmer’s Truffleduck catering service has developed a reputation that most organisations aim to achieve.

From its humble beginnings, Truffleduck now caters for many of the major events held within the Geelong region.

Truffleduck’s operational procedures ensure the provision of quality food and service for any occasion and at any location.

The company has been recognised for industry excellence, receiving an Australian Achiever Award and being named a finalist in the Australian Bridal Industry Awards.

A source of both pride and sleepless nights for their creator – local PR practitioner John Loughnan – the Business Excellence Awards are now the longest continuously running business awards in Victoria.

John conceived the awards in the mid-1980s to help build on the success of his Geelong Business Magazine.

WHK Day Neilson consultant Geoff Neilson was among the earliest supporters of the awards, and says they arrived at a good time for Geelong.

“I think they arrived at a time when Geelong had a rather negative self-image and I felt this initiative might play a role in reversing that image,” Geoff says.

The inaugural judging panel chairman in 1986, Geoff says the awards’ first year was exciting and pioneering for those involved.

“The presentations in that first year were a highlight because we could see by then we had succeeded in attracting applications. Of course, we could have launched and had none. But we had applications and they were worthy and we were able to make appropriate awards,” he says.

That first year of the then-named Geelong Business Magazine Business Excellence Awards attracted 46 entries in four categories, with earthmoving company Paddy Hoare Pty Ltd named inaugural outright winner. The prize was a return trip for two to London donated by Qantas.

The awards suffered a rough patch, along with many Geelong businesses, in the recessionary years of the early 1990s and, as John reflects, “have really started to get going in the last 10 to 12 years”.

Sponsors have grown from zero to 19 this year, with regional stalwarts such as Deakin University’s Faculty of Business & Law, Geelong Advertiser, City of Greater Geelong, VECCI, Gordon Institute of TAFE, Harwood Andrews, Shell and Target all supporters of 10 or more years standing.

Categories have increased from four to 18, Deakin University and Gordon TAFE students help businesses prepare their entries and the gala awards night has become a diary fixture for more than 400 people each year.

Kean Selway entered the awards three times before steering Deakin Management Centre to an outright win in 1996. He then went on to become one of the awards’ longest-serving judges, serving from 1998 until 2005.

“I think it had prestige as the award to win in the Geelong community, and it was an important way for a business to increase its profile,” Kean says of his repeat efforts.

“More importantly, it’s hard to get an independent and external, non-emotional benchmark on your organisation and to have these judges come in, have a look at your business and give advice was very worthwhile.”

Now Deakin University’s vice-president (administration), Kean says he found his role as a judge extremely rewarding, particularly as the awards are the only ones in which judges visit the business premises of every entrant.

“There is a surprising number of organisations born out of Geelong that really are challenging world benchmarks and being truly innovative, which is fantastic,” Kean says.

Among them is Lara-based manufacturer Air Radiators, which won category awards in 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995 and 2003 before taking out the top prize in 2004.

Business development manager Tony O’Neill says Air Radiators first entered the awards to establish its corporate profile, build networks and showcase the company’s attributes to potential employees.

“The awards gave us a chance to take stock of the fundamentals within our business, to reflect and evaluate our key attributes and test the company against the awards’ criteria,” Tony says.

“The application process boosted morale amongst all employees – building their sense of pride and ownership of the company – and the heightened exposure has assisted us greatly in attracting new employees.”

While his own company is taking a hiatus from entering, Tony encourages other businesses to have a go and to reap the benefits – regardless of whether or not they win.

“More than ever businesses need to ensure they stay at the forefront of innovation and excellence, and in our view the awards are an excellent vehicle to assist in this process.”

Indeed, this is one of the reasons given by Shell Geelong Refinery’s engineering manager Alan Greaves for the company’s ongoing sponsorship of the award, which is now in its 13th year.

“I believe the awards give business an opportunity to be recognised for innovation, hard work and to be acknowledged for a job well done,” Alan says.

“Shell Geelong Refinery takes its responsibility as a corporate citizen very seriously and we believe that by helping develop local business, and recognising business excellence, we encourage business to prosper and excel.”

Alan says that by supporting business growth and development in Geelong, jobs are created and a positive culture developed.

It is just what Geoff Neilson had hoped for when he put his support behind the awards 21 years ago.

“I think the awards have helped to overcome the negative self-image Geelong once had and boosted our self esteem about Geelong, promoting it as a place of excellence,” Geoff says.

John Loughnan says he is pleased the awards have come so far and gained such credibility within the business community, emphasising that many have had a hand in its success.

“Many organisations have been involved, such as the Australian Chamber of Manufactures, which gave the awards a real boost in its early days. I’d also acknowledge the chairman and members of the judging panel for the countless hours they put in,” he says.

John says that, in many ways, awards organiser The Communicators also enter every year as it strives to achieve excellence through incremental improvements in the event.

And although he has run the awards for 21 years, John says he still becomes anxious as the event draws to its annual climax.

“From July 1 the awards develop teeth and claws and breathe fire. They demand absolutely intense involvement in the 26 days leading up to the presentations night,” he says.

And then, within a few short weeks, it will all start over for 2007.

Thanks to the commitment of 18 sponsors, there are now an equal number of categories in which local businesses can vie for recognition.

Awards organiser John Loughnan said the various categories meant businesses big and small and from a variety of industries and sectors had an equal chance of taking home a prize.

Mr Loughnan said that while the deadline remained more than a month away, businesses intending to enter would be wise to get started on their entries now.

“Time gets away from you when you are running a business, and while the entry process does take a little bit of time the benefits of entering are well worth the effort,” he said.

“The awards offer entrants a chance for recognition of business excellence and also serve as a great staff motivator.”

Category winners receive a plaque at the gala awards function to be held on July 26, with the outright winner presented with the coveted trophy and a $3000 Deakin University scholarship. All entrants also have the chance to win one of four $1000 advertising packages from the Geelong Advertiser.

Entries close on Friday, May 12, with all entrants receiving a site visit by awards judges on a pre-arranged date during June.

Entrants are required to prepare a written submission, limited to 2000 words, Judging is based on a points system applied to each written entry as well as information gleaned from the site visits.

Mr Loughnan said the entry process was made easier by following the guidelines given in the entry template, which is available by phoning The Communicators on 5222 5863 or by followingthis link.

The Geelong Advertiser will again provide $1000 advertising packages to four standout businesses that enter this year’s awards.

Advertising sales director Michael Mazengab says the prize is a practical way to reward businesses by helping them to promote their goods and services to the wider community.

“Geelong Advertiser\\’s strong editorial content and improved services to readers and advertisers have continued to see the publication grow from strength to strength,” Mr Mazengab says.

“Combine this with our strong readership and circulation, and the benefits to advertisers are enormous.”

Business Excellence Awards judges will hand pick four entrants who they believe will benefit from $1000 in advertising with the Geelong Advertiser.

Now in its 21^st year, the Business Excellence Awards offer 18 separate categories, with winners competing for the Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence award and the title of the “Business of the Year”.

Category winners receive an award plaque, with the outright winner receiving a $3000 scholarship from the Faculty of Business & Law, Deakin University.

Entries close Friday, May 12, with the winners announced at a gala awards evening on July 26, 2006.

Follow the link to download an entry form or collect one from the Geelong Advertiser office OR from The Communicators, 14 Aberdeen Street, Geelong West 3218 Ph: 5222 5863  Fax: 5222 2924; Email: gbx@thecommunicators.com.au

For more information and guidance on preparing your entry log onto, click here.

Representatives from dozens of businesses intending to enter this year’s Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards attended last night’s first session.

Awards organiser John Loughnan is urging any business that may be considering entering to book into one of the remaining two free workshops.

“Participants will pick up hints for putting together a successful entry and should be able to complete 50 per cent of the entry in draft form by the end of the workshop,” Mr Loughnan said.

The workshops help guide potential entrants through the entry form step-by-step, covering aspects including marketing, company vision, operational issues, human resources and customer service.

Sharon Nicola from Gordon Institute’s school of business and management will facilitate each of the sessions, with members of the awards judging panel on hand to assist with entry preparation and provide insight into the winning qualities they are seeking.

All those who attend a briefing workshop will receive an entry template and guidelines.

Places are still available for the remaining workshops to be held Thursday March 9 from 9:15am to 11:30am and Wednesday March 15 from 9:15am to 11:30am.

To book a place in one of these free workshops please contact The Communicators on ph: 5222 5863, fax: 5222 2924 or email: gbx@thecommunicators.com.au

Organisers are encouraging any business intending to enter this year’s Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards to attend one of three sessions.

“Participants will pick up valuable tips for putting together a successful entry and should be able to complete 50 per cent of the entry in draft form by the end of the workshop,” awards organiser John Loughnan said.

The workshops help guide potential entrants through the entry form step-by-step, covering aspects including marketing, company vision, operational issues, human resources and customer service.

“It can be easy for organisations to get caught up with their core business and overlook aspects of their operations that are unique or that are done particularly well,” Mr Loughnan said.

“These sessions help business operators take stock of each sector of their business and guide them in preparing an entry that gives them their best shot at winning an award.”

Sharon Nicola from Gordon Institute’s school of business and management will facilitate each of the three sessions.

Members of the Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards judging panel will be on hand to assist with entry preparation and to give some insight in the winning qualities they are seeking.

Entrants will also have access to business and marketing students from Gordon Institute and Deakin University, who will be in attendance at the sessions.

All those who attend a briefing workshop will receive an entry template and guidelines.

The workshops are to be held on Tuesday March 7 from 5:30pm to 7:30pm; Thursday March 9 from 9:15am to 11:30am; and Wednesday March 15 from 9:15am to 11:30am.

To book a place in one of these free workshops please contact The Communicators on ph: 5222 5863, fax: 5222 2924 or email: gbx@thecommunicators.com.au

The 2006 Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence awards will cater for this group with Australia Post sponsoring the New & Emerging Business category.

Australia Post Geelong manager, Mark Davis said, “ this category gives new businesses the opportunity to be compared on performance with their peers, and yet not compete directly with established businesses.

With Australia Post delivering entry forms to every business in Geelong, organisers of Victoria’s longest running business awards say it offers a valuable profile-building opportunity.

A panel of 13 judges with experience across a range of industries will comb through the entries in a bid to find the best in each category.

The judges read each submission and give them a mark between 60 and 85, with the scores then averaged out.

Visits to businesses follow as pairs of judges take the time to better understand each entrant, this time giving a score based on what they see and hear on site.

Judging Panel Chairman Dan Simmonds will accompany some of the judging pairs to oversee the process.

Mr Simmonds says the Business Excellence Awards offer an invaluable opportunity for businesses in the region not only to develop their profile but also to benefit from the judging process itself.

“Entrants can take part in business planning briefings and workshops that help them analyse their business through the eyes of an external observer,” Mr Simmonds says.

“This process is useful not just for preparing their submission, but also for ongoing business planning.”

Now in its 21^st year, the Business Excellence Awards offer 18 separate categories, with winners competing for the Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence award and the title of the “Business of the year”.  The winner will also receive a $3000 scholarship from the Faculty of Business & Law, Deakin University.

Entrants can gain a valuable start to the preparation of their entry by attending one of the two Briefing Workshops at the Gordon TAFE Gallery on Tuesday, March 7 at 5.30pm, Thursday, March 9 at 9.15am and Wednesday, March 15 at 9.15am.  The workshops take two hours and cover all aspects of preparing an entry.

Entries close Friday, May 12, with the winners announced at a gala awards evening on July 26, 2006.

Follow the link to download an entry form or collect one from the Geelong Advertiser office OR from The Communicators, 14 Aberdeen Street, Geelong West 3218 Ph: 5222 5863  Fax: 5222 2924; Email: gbx@thecommunicators.com.au

For more information and guidance on preparing your entry log onto, click here.

Geelong region businesses can address all of these by preparing an entry in the 21^st annual Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards.

General manager of the Geelong Advertiser Blair Burr said, “Entering these awards provides an immediate health check for any business.  Through the application criteria, entrants gain knowledge of their key strengths as well as areas that may need improvement.  This is an investment in the future for any business, regardless of its size”.

The award process allows organisations to enlist assistance to prepare their entry from a marketing or business student from either Deakin University or the Gordon TAFE.  Entrants who attended the Briefing Workshops at the Gordon Gallery received preference in the allocation of these students.

Over the 21 years of the awards, many successful organisations have used the awards to motivate their staff.  The entry process not only involves management in understanding their business and improving it, but also allows staff to get involved and understand how they can help the business improve.

There are 18 categories where entrants can apply to be judged by an experienced panel that operates independently.   The winner of each category will be eligible to win the title of the “Geelong Business of the Year”.  The Outright winner will also receive a $3,000 scholarship donated by Deakin University’s Faculty of Business & Law.

Entrants will be eligible to win one category only apart from the outright winner.

Advertising packages in the Geelong Advertiser of a combined value of $4,000 will also be on offer to a business that does not win a category.

Mr Burr said,”These awards have grown over the 21 years to be a prestigious event on the region’s business calendar.  The event receives significant coverage in the Geelong Advertiser, and for this reason, it can only further benefit those businesses that enter.

“If businesses want their organisation to stand out from the competition, increase their media profile and open up new business opportunities, they can’t afford to not to enter the awards this year.”

The awards’ judging panel chairman Dan Simmonds says the competition offers entrants a valuable business health check as they benchmark against other successful organisations in the region.

He says a series of free briefing workshops, held at the Gordon Institute of TAFE, would give businesses planning tips and some hints on what the judges would be looking for.

Category winners receive an award plaque, with the outright winner receiving a $3000 scholarship from the Faculty of Business & Law, Deakin University, and the coveted Business of the Year trophy.

In addition, four outstanding businesses will be rewarded for their efforts with one of four $1000 advertising packages from the Geelong Advertiser.

For more information on entering the awards, check out the Business Awards page, email gbx@thecommunicators.com.au or phone 5222 5863.

Medium Business is a new category created to accommodate organisations with 9 to 35 employees.  Lyons Construction, winner of the 2003 Geelong Advertiser Business of the Year, is sponsoring the category.  The large business category sponsored by Harwood Andrews Lawyers will continue for businesses with over 36 employees.

John Loughnan from the award’s co-ordinators The Communicators said, “The number of medium businesses entering in recent years has increased significantly.  These entries have been disadvantaged by having to compete in the same category with larger businesses of over 36 and more employees.  This new category for medium sized organisations will enable this large segment of Geelong businesses to showcase their operations and the success that they have achieved”.

Lyons Construction managing director, Norm Lyons said the medium business area of business was thriving in Geelong and his own experience of entering the awards brought enormous benefits to his company.  “Apart from winning and being recognized for excellence by our peers, the process of preparing the entry made us look hard at our business and the ways to improve it”, he said.

Entry forms for the awards will be mailed to all businesses in the greater Geelong region in early February.

Two hour Briefing Workshops for potential entrants will be held at the Gordon Institute of TAFE Gallery on March 7, at 5.30PM, March 9 at 9.15AM and March 15, at 9.15AM, 2006

For bookings or further information, phone the Awards Hotline on 5222 5863 or Email: gbx@thecommunicators.com.au

Over the years, the Gordon has a rich history of supporting the region’s business community.  The emphasis of their support through the business awards has always been in encouraging newer business to participate and learn from the experience.

Award co-ordinator, John Loughnan said, “ the Gordon has been a successful entrant and category winner in these awards.  Their involvement increased in 1997 when they first became a category sponsor.  The Institute has also provided senior staff as members of the judging panel and more recently conducted the Briefing Workshops”.

The Briefing Workshops have made the preparation of entry submissions much easier and less time consuming.  Entrants attending can expect to complete the major part of their entry at the workshop, and gain vital tips from judges and past winners”.

The Gordon’s deputy CEO, Grant Sutherland said, “ the Gordon values it’s relationship with the awards as being more than a sponsor.  Through the awards, we provide students from our business management courses to support and assist entrants with their submissions.  This involvement has real value and is aligned to the Gordon’s goals of community engagement and contributing to the region’s business success”.

The Gordon will conduct three Briefing Workshops at the Gordon Gallery, Fenwick Street, Geelong.

·     Tuesday, March 7, 2006            5.30pm-7.30pm

·     Thursday, March 9, 2006           9.15am-11.30am

·     Wednesday, March 15, 2006      9.15am-11.30am

Bookings can be made to attend a workshop by contacting the award’s co-ordinators, The Communicators. Phone 5222 5863 Email: gbx@thecommunicators.com.au

Only seven organisations have qualified for the business awards Hall of Fame since they were established in 1986. They include Beacon Resort, Queenscliff, Village Cinemas, Geelong, Air Radiators, Lara, Deakin Management Centre, Waurn Ponds, Bellarine Secondary College, Drysdale and Midway Wood Products, Corio.

Express Promotions managing director, Robert Reid said, “We have focused heavily on developing the company’s culture and systems to provide innovative products and services for our customers.

We have achieved significant gains within our operations and the business excellence awards enable us to receive confirmation and recognition for these efforts”.

Bendigo Bank is the new sponsor of the Innovation and/or Research category in the 2006 business awards. The bank’s senior business banking manager, Leon Czarnuch said the awards allow organisations to increase their profile, celebrate their achievements and boost staff morale.

Entering also provides businesses with the opportunity to review their businesses processes whilst preparing the entry.

Mr Czarnuch said, “ Bendigo Bank is very proud to join the Geelong Advertiser and other sponsors in acknowledging the achievements of local businesses. Our business-banking department knows that there are many businesses in the greater Geelong region that are role models within their industry.

Their success can be used to encourage other businesses to develop further initiatives in research and innovation.

Further information on the 2006 awards can be obtained from the award co-ordinators, The Communicators Ph. 5221 7133. Email gbx@thecommunicators.com.au