Collins Hume accounting firm named Business of the Year

BALLINA accounting firm Collins Hume has been named Business of the Year at the Northern Rivers Business Awards.

The firm also won Excellence in Business and Professional Services and Excellence in Sustainability, with a gala night held at Ballina RSL Club.

Collins Hume won multiple awards at the Ballina Chamber awards earlier this year and will now represent the region at the NSW Business Awards in Sydney on October 29.

The business was founded by John Collins and John Hume in 1980. Both are now retired but remain passionate about its continued growth.

It has extended its reach across the region in recent years under the guidance of chief executive Christopher Atkinson.

“When Collins Hume began in 1980 our mission was to be the best tax service in Ballina, but the world has changed and so have we,” he said.

“Our overriding purpose is to inspire business owners to achieve business and lifestyle success in powerful and meaningful ways.

“A lot of that hard work is starting to come to fruition now and the business is in really good shape.

“These awards are a wonderful testament to the passion and commitment our team brings to work every day.”

Team member Kirra Connell was recognised as Highly Commended in the Outstanding Trainee of the Year category.

Nathan McGrath was also a finalist for Outstanding Business Leader.

Other winners included Home Alstonville for Outstanding Visitor Experience.

Ballina honey producer Gather By won Excellence in International Business.

Biala Support Services was named Employer of Choice (21+ employees), with its chief executive Lisa Smith awarded Outstanding Business Leader.

Sistability won Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion and was highly commended for Employer of Choice (under 20 employees).

Avid Constructions and Contracting won Excellence in Trade, Construction and Manufacturing.