The Geelong Business Excellence Awards are a vital part of the Chamber's future of empowering and elevating our business community. As a flagship program, the Awards reflect the innovation, resilience, and collaboration that drive Geelong forward, while providing businesses with a platform to reflect, grow, and be recognised for their excellence.
In 2024, the Awards continue to deliver immense value to our business community. More than just accolades, they offer participants the chance to assess their journey, benchmark against industry peers, and explore new opportunities for growth. The integrity and quality of these Awards are upheld by a panel of expert judges and a dedicated expert team who ensure that the process is rigorous, fair, and a source of enrichment for all involved.
This year, in particular has seen a marked rise in the quality of entries demonstrating the strength and creativity of businesses and leaders that are shaping Geelong's economic future. As a Chamber, we are proud of the role this program plays in fostering excellence and driving the sustainability and success of our region.
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the judging panel for their expertise and commitment to maintaining the integrity of the Awards. I also congratulate all participants—your involvement contributes to a vibrant and thriving business community.
Together, we are building a growing and prosperous Geelong
The Geelong Business Excellence Awards celebrate and recognize the outstanding achievements of businesses in the Geelong region.
At LBW Business + Wealth Advisors (LBW), the success of Geelong businesses is our priority. As leading business advisors dedicated to supporting the growth of local organizations, both large and small, we are honoured to be the major sponsor for 2024.
LBW is committed to partnering with businesses, providing the compliance and advisory support they need to overcome challenges and thrive. We are excited to help identify and celebrate the incredibly talented and hardworking individuals, businesses and teams in our community.
With a proud 15-year history of involvement, including roles on the judging panel, Chamber board representation, and as category sponsor of the Business of the Year, LBW is thrilled to sponsor the 2024 Awards.
Recognises entrepreneurial achievement among business professionals and business owners (aged between 18 and 40 years) who demonstrate leadership, vision and success.
Deakin values and fosters entrepreneurship because we know that creative and adaptable graduates are the ones who will make meaningful contributions to our local communities and the world. Entrepreneurialism is an invaluable mindset of all graduates. It's a mindset that can influence how students solve challenges, cultivating new ways of doing things rather than accepting the way they have always been.
Celebrates a business that has demonstrated sustainable and circular economy initiatives that are good for the business, the community and the environment.
We are passionate about educating, building and facilitating a sustainable digital footprint. Through the re-use of devices, we can close the digital divide and help reduce e-waste. We are excited to sponsor this category in the Geelong Business Excellence Awards for the third year running and congratulate the Geelong Chamber for encouraging business to adopt sustainable practices. We extend our congratulations to all finalists and look forward to working with the 2024 winner!
Recognises a business that operates with 21 or more full time employees.
EML Group (EML) is excited to sponsor the Awards again this year and be part of celebrating the success and ingenuity of businesses in Geelong. EML is an Australian-owned and operated personal injury manager - we've been helping people get their lives back after work-related illness or injury for more than 110 years. In Victoria, our 520 strong team is based across our offices in Melbourne, CBD and Geelong, to provide dedicated support to our regional customers. We wish all finalists the best of luck and look forward to a fantastic celebration!
Celebrates a business in the manufacturing, engineering, building or trade industries.
As one of the region's leading manufacturers with strong ties to the engineering, building, and trade sectors, we are passionate about driving industry success. Our sponsorship of this award reflects our commitment to encouraging businesses that are not just meeting expectations but redefining them. We believe in championing innovation, growth, and meaningful impact within the industry, and this award is our way of celebrating those who are making a difference and setting new benchmarks for the future.
Celebrates a business which has accepted their corporate social responsibility to conduct their activities ethically and which works to improve the quality of life in their local communities.
Geelong Galvanizing has participated and invested in the lives our communities since our establishment in Corio in 1991. Cultural, medical, educational, artistic, sporting, philanthropic, and community outreach facilities and programs all receive ongoing support from Geelong Galvanizing and its staff. Our corporate social responsibilities inform the way we engage with our communities, and we encourage others to take an active role in improving the lives of those around them. Geelong Galvanizing would like to acknowledge the efforts of all businesses who do their part in their communities.
Celebrates a newcomer (operating less than 3 years) and has just started out but has already made a significant impact.
A Geelong icon and one of the largest regional TAFEs in Victoria. The Gordon has been helping people gain real skills and great employment outcomes for more than 130 years. The Gordon provides tailored staff development and training solutions to organisations looking to develop workplace capability. Our suite of skill sets is constantly growing to meet industry demands and to offer individuals the ability to grow and develop the skills needed to succeed. We are delighted to support the Geelong Business Excellence Awards which foster improvement and recognise excellence in our business community. Together we can ensure our workforces and workplaces are achieving best practice.
Recognises a business that operates in the hospitality and tourism industry.
Tourism Greater Geelong and The Bellarine is proud to represent 900 local businesses. Our membership base includes accommodation, hospitality, attractions, tours, retail operators and more, all collaborating to grow the region as an incredible place to visit.
Our vision is for Geelong and The Bellarine to be a world-class inclusive destination that inspires visitors to create memories and depart with a desire to return. This can only be achieved when exceptional businesses are delivering outstanding experiences. The Geelong Business Excellence Awards help drive improvement, sustainability and innovation. For tourism and hospitality operators, their continuous improvement supports a thriving visitor economy.
In honour of Graeme Goldsworthy, a local hospitality legend whose vision identified the potential in this region as a visitor destination and whose drive saw the establishment of a tourism body to support a thriving sector, we're honoured to sponsor the Tourism and Hospitality category and appreciate the leadership of Geelong Chamber of Commerce in the delivery of these awards.
Congratulations to all finalists and winners!
Recognises a business that has demonstrated an understanding of, and commitment to protecting the health and safety of their employees and clients.
As Victoria's health and safety regulator and workplace injury insurer, WorkSafe Victoria's purpose is to reduce workplace harm and improve outcomes for injured workers. WorkSafe is proud to sponsor the Safe and Healthy Business Award which recognises the commitment of Geelong employers to protect the health, safety and wellbeing of their employees and clients.
Recognises a retail business that sells commodities directly to consumers.
Roderick Insurance Brokers have been big supporters of the Geelong Business Excellence Awards for many years. Being inducted into the Hall of Fame remains one of our proudest achievements in our company's 38-year history. The Awards are an integral part of the Geelong business community, providing a great forum which recognises the achievements of the many enterprises in our region. We hope it inspires businesses to become more innovative through exposure to leading edge ideas and local success stories.
Celebrates a business that has demonstrated a high level of understanding towards inclusive & accessible workplace practices.
We are delighted to be supporting the 2024 Geelong Business Excellence Awards to enhance the Geelong region as a great place to live and work. With the TAC's headquarters in Geelong and many of our employees and their families living and working here, we are proud to be involved with activities that contribute to building a stronger community. We are proud to be sponsoring the Inclusive & Accessible Business category and celebrate those businesses who demonstrate the importance of inclusive and accessible workplace practices.
Recognises a business that has demonstrated the effective use of digital tools and techniques to produce strategic, resourceful content to engage people, and create meaningful interactions.
Web Force 5 are long-term supporters of the Geelong Business Excellence Awards. We champion digital strategy (from websites and apps to branding) as a crucial part of any business, and believe in the power of possible. That's why we have sponsored this important award - to uplift business owners innovating their companies through tech. We extend our congratulations to all finalists and look forward to celebrating the 2024 winner.
Recognises a business who strives to create a workplace that maximises the full potential of their people by providing opportunities to grow and advance them both personally and professionally.
The City of Greater Geelong is thrilled to support the 38th Geelong Business Excellence Awards in 2024.
We strive to provide a collaborative and supportive workplace for employees which is why we're excited to sponsor the new Employer of Choice award.
This award recognises businesses that are committed to investing in the growth of their people, which is crucial for business success.
Local business success is a key driver of our economy and is critical to delivering the community's vision for a clever and creative region. There are more than 21,500 small businesses in Greater Geelong, and they make up around 97 percent of all businesses. It's estimated that small business in Greater Geelong generate around $9 billion annual revenue and employ the majority of our 144,000 workforce.
We're committed to helping businesses in Greater Geelong to grow and thrive through training and networking events, economic data, investment facilitation, industry development and more.
Congratulations to all the amazing 2024 finalists.
Recognises a business that operates with 1 to 3 full time or equivalent employees.
The locally-owned Times News Group publishes free local news across regions including the Surf Coast, Greater Geelong, the Bellarine, Ballarat, Bendigo and Byron Bay.
Through weekly newspapers, online, and social media, Times News Group keeps its extensive print and digital audience informed about news and hyper-local content.
Free across print and digital platforms, Times News Group's channels are the perfect way for businesses to reach and engage with a large audience.
When local is the new global, we deliver what's good about where we live.
Recognises a business that operates with 4 to 20 full time or equivalent employees.
As a small business in the region, Envisage HR Solutions is proud to sponsor the Small Business category.
Envisage HR Solutions are HR, Recruitment and Training Specialists who focuses on optimizing your business performance through your people. Envisage HR Solutions offer an authentic and individualised service, guiding businesses through challenges and celebrating their triumphs along the way.
The Envisage team support businesses through all phases of business evolution, and provides contemporary thought leadership, and develop hands-on leadership skills, through leadership mentoring and structured training programs for CEOs to emerging leaders. The Envisage suite of services will enhance and empower your team whilst mitigating people-related risks to your business.
Congratulations to all of the finalists and winners tonight.
Recognises leadership through the practical application of innovative solutions.
As a local manufacturing company committed to continuous improvement and innovation, Viva Energy is delighted to sponsor the Innovation, Research and Development strategy.
In a rapidly changing world where new challenges emerge every day, innovation has never been more important.
The development of the Viva Energy Hub in Geelong shows Viva Energy's continued focus on Victoria's future energy requirements and the role we are going to play in the transition to more sustainable energy sources.
Our refinery remains a proud supporter of local businesses and we are pleased to be able to provide this support and recognition to Geelong's visionaries, pioneers and trailblazers.
Congratulations to all winners and finalists.
Celebrates a business that has demonstrated a recognition of & commitment to delivering health & wellbeing workplace initiatives.
With a bright spotlight on healthcare workers over recent years, it is more important than ever to support staff wellbeing. It is an honour for Barwon Health to continue our partnership with the Geelong Business Excellence Awards, sponsoring the award category 'Health & Wellbeing Promoting Workplace' for an eleventh consecutive year. We look forward to celebrating the winner of the 2024 award.
Celebrates a business that has demonstrated a high standard of customer service using resources to maximum efficiency while consistently looking to improve.
Spirit Super is an Industry SuperFund with $29 billion funds under management and over 350,000 members across Australia. We're here to help hard-working Australians get the most out of their super. We offer low fees, free advice and a focus on competitive investment returns. We take great pride in offering excellent service no matter your life stage or retirement goals. When it comes to super, it all starts with Spirit.
*Figures as at 27 February 2024. Advice on Spirit Super is provided by Quadrant First Pty Ltd (ABN 78 102 167 877, AFSL 284443) and the issuer is Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty Ltd (AFSL 238 718, ABN 14 008 650 628) the trustee of Spirit Super (ABN 74 559 365 913). Consider the PDS and TMD at spiritsuper.com.au/pds before making a decision.
Celebrates a business that has not previously entered the Geelong Business Excellence Awards.
Harwood Andrews believes that investing in meaningful partnerships will better the communities in which we work and live. We have been a proud supporter of the Geelong Business Excellence Awards for many years and are delighted to continue that partnership and sponsor the Best First Year Entry award.
Congratulations to all the 2024 finalists.
Celebrates a business professional who has demonstrated successful leadership skills.
The team at bay 93.9 are right behind talented locals doing exceptional work, leading our region to a healthy, and prosperous, future.
There is no better way for us to honour you, and what your business does for local people, than getting behind the GBEA Business Leader of the Year award.
Through great leaders we build strong futures, so thank you finalists, for the brave and difficult work you do, and on behalf of the whole team at bay 93.9, good luck!
The Business of the Year Award celebrates the culmination of grit, hard work and determination to succeed. The awards celebrate the outcome, but also the journey to get there. A journey that LBW witnesses day to day when working with local businesses whose values align with our own. Innovative, accountable, respectful, curious, with a learning mind-set to continually improve. We are committed to working together with the community and businesses, supporting them to achieve their business goals to grow and succeed. We are honoured to sponsor Geelong's most prestigious business accolade and help shine a light on the region's clever, creative and innovative business community.
Through the generous support of sponsors, winners of the 2024 Geelong Business Excellence Awards program will be awarded the following prizes.
For terms & conditions and full prize details, visit the GBEA website.
bay 93.9 and K rock 95.5 will showcase winning businesses in the 'Celebrate the Best' 2024 radio advertising campaign showcasing the 2024 Geelong Business Excellence Awards winners. Each winner will secure a 15 second (approx.) segment in a dedicated 30 second on-air feature, voiced by a business representative or nominated station voice.
The Times News Group will dedicate an article on each winning business in the Geelong Times, Surf Coast Times, Armstrong Creek Times and The Bellarine Times.
bay 93.9 will award the Business Leader of the Year with $5,000 worth of radio advertising to a selected local charity of their choice
Gawk Outdoor will award the Business of the Year with $10,000 worth of digital billboard advertising with Gawk Outdoor.
The locally-owned Times News Group publishes free local news across regions including the Surf Coast, Greater Geelong, the Bellarine, Ballarat, Bendigo and Byron Bay.
Through weekly newspapers, online, and social media, Times News Group keeps its extensive print and digital audience informed about news and hyper-local content.
Free across print and digital platforms, Times News Group's channels are the perfect way for businesses to reach and engage with a large audience.
When local is the new global, we deliver what's good about where we live.
bay 93.9 is an independent, family-owned radio station and proud partner of the GBEA. We are passionate about local business and fuelling our client's success. With an all-local live on-air team and what we believe may be the best resourced newsroom in the state, we work hard to deliver Geelong, the Bellarine and Surf Coast entertaining, informative, relatable radio; the best feel-good music from the 80's; unbiased, ethical news; and client messaging that delivers effective, measurable results. bay 93.9 is the #1 station 40+ in this region. With 42% of local people listening to local radio,* commercial radio weekly audiences are reaching record highs**, and with sustained population growth projected for this region, the future is bright!
*Xtra Insights - Geelong Survey One - Oct 2022 · **GFK - Commercial Radio - Survey One - Mar 2023
Entity is a Geelong-based design studio that loves what makes each and every business unique. And what better way to celebrate the amazing diversity of the Geelong community than by partnering with the Geelong Business Excellence Awards. We are proud to be a partner and support GBEA 2024 in recognising all of the finalists and winners in this year's awards!
The Pier Geelong is delighted to welcome the GBEA for 2024. We have been dedicated to creating exceptional events for 15 years and with our spectacular, uninterrupted waterfront views, there are countless memorable photos to show for it.
One venue offers a complete experience, accommodating all elements of your event - whether it be a wedding, business event or special occasion - can be held in one location, allowing guests to experience the diverse and unique aspects of the events centre, bar and restaurant.
The Pier Geelong is a custom-built events centre on the Geelong waterfront allowing flexibility for small intimate events of 20, to grand occasions of up to 1000 guests.
Within the The Pier's complex is one of Geelong's most popular restaurants Wah Wah Gee, which provides an extensive range of Asian inspired food, along with sister venue Wah Bah upstairs boasting three stunning decks with bay views.
Milk is an award-winning video production company with a vision for Geelong to be a thriving creative hub, producing a quality that is world class.
GBEA is an incredible showcase of businesses that reflect this vision and we would like to congratulate all the finalists on their achievements this year, and wish them the best of luck.
Gawk Outdoor, a bold and family-owned business founded in 2018, is a leading outdoor advertising company operating across Regional Victoria. With over 200 digital and static billboard locations, they specialise in the "Super8" format and boast an impressive market share of over 50% in Victoria's regional Out-Of-Home (OOH) sector. Their extensive coverage, including 25+ digital billboards in key Victorian town centres and across every highway in the state, connects with a massive audience of 13.9 million individuals monthly. Recognised in the Financial Review's Fast Starters list for 2022, Gawk Outdoor provides high-quality advertising solutions for businesses of all sizes in regional Victoria, southern New South Wales, and regional South Australia, showcasing a strong passion for supporting Regional Victoria.
CentreStage is a leading performing arts agency and education provider based in Geelong, committed to nurturing the talents of aspiring actors, singers, and performers. With a history of producing high-quality theatrical productions and representing talent for opportunities in theatre, film, television, and TVCs, CentreStage has become a trusted name in the Australian entertainment industry. The organisation prides itself on fostering a creative community, offering world-class training programmes and professional representation, while supporting the next generation of performers in achieving their dreams. This March, CentreStage will proudly stage the premiere production of Come From Away at the Geelong Arts Centre.
The Awards would not be possible without the dedication of our reviewers, judging panel and guest judges.
