Awards offer perspective

THERE’S an old adage about low hanging fruit offering easy pickings and those willing to reach higher reap the rewards.
It’s fitting that the 2013 Cardinia Business Awards were launched with apple trees as a backdrop at Bellevue Orchards in Officer.
Bellevue, run by the Russo family, was crowned Cardinia’s Business of the Year in 2012 on the strength of its decision to reach higher and take a good look at the business through the awards process.
Business development manager Nick Russo – who runs the business in partnership with his father Robert Russo, uncle Joe Russo and cousin Bernadette Russo – said the opportunity for self-analysis was as important as winning the award.
“The real value of the process was taking the time to have a retrospective view of what we’ve done as a business,” Nick said.
“You don’t often get the time to do that with so many busy days, but it’s worth taking the time to do that.
“Putting our achievements down on paper was as valuable as winning the award.
“It helps you realise that all the work we do is worth something.”
Nick said it was also satisfying, when revisiting the application for regional awards, moving items in the ‘things to do’ column into ‘recent achievements’.
“Taking part in the awards was a great experience.”The judges and mentors made the process both enjoyable and rewarding.”I would encourage all small businesses to take the time to enter the awards as an opportunity to reflect on how far you have come.
“It has been great for us and our team to have everyone’s hard work recognised, the award is a true testament to the dedication of all the staff here at Bellevue.
“A big thanks to the Cardinia Shire for a great event and congratulations to all the participants”.
The Russos were so impressed, Bellevue has now come on as a category sponsor of the Agricultural and Primary Industries section for 2013.
Cardinia mayor Brett Owen was on hand to officially launch the awards and while there renewed acquaintances. He and Bernadette caught the bus to Pakenham Secondary College just up the road.
“Bellevue Orchards is a fantastic business that’s continues to grow. It is great success story for our shire,” he said.“Winning the 2012 Business of the Year has further increased its profile and it has provided real outcomes for the business.
“Council is pleased that they are also sponsoring this year’s awards.”
Nominations are now open for the 2013 awards.
“I encourage all businesses from across the shire to enter the awards. They deliver tangible benefits for businesses that enter.
“They promote your business, provide recognition and provide the opportunity to evaluate what you do and how you do it.”
The awards can now be entered on-line through the council’s website www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/business. For information, contact Cardinia business development officer Frances Grigoriou on 1300 787 624.