Time for the awards

PAKENHAM businesses will have the opportunity to showcase their success of the past 12 months through the Cardinia Business of the Year Awards.
Nominations have opened for this year’s awards.
The panel of judges will assess 12 categories, including home-based business, retail outlets, primary producers, service providers and manufacturers.
Winners will share in $5000 cash prizes plus an award plaque to display in their premises.
Cardinia mayor Kate Lempriere said she encouraged the diverse range of businesses to enter the awards.
“The business awards are the best opportunity to promote your business,” she said.
“It is high-profile free marketing and advertising and it will demonstrate the quality of business within Cardinia.
“I invite and encourage all businesses to enter, it doesn’t matter how big or small, or what type of product or service you provide, you are all part of the strong economic community we are growing and promoting in Cardinia,” she said.
Cr Lempriere said the award highlighted the achievements of local business and provided a benchmark of business standards across the region.
“This award is about bringing our business community together to share information and business skills and to promote and support local business activities and network with other businesses,” Cr Lempriere said.
Last year’s winners came from all over the shire.
Pakenham businesses who had tasted success at last year’s awards were Mumm’s Maintenance and Mowing, Imprint Graphics, the Home Baked Cookie Company and Just 4 Mums Maternity Wear.
An independent panel from Monash University, government business agencies and the private sector will judge the entries.
The award winners will be announced at the Gala Cardinia Business Awards Presentation Dinner in May.
Contact Cardinia Development department on 5945 0400 for information about nominating for the awards.
Entries close on Tuesday, 17 April.