Braille manufacturer makes an impression at Geelong Business Excellence Awards

BRAILLE Sign Supplies has left its mark on this year’s Geelong Business Excellence Awards, taking out the Innovation, Research and Development Award.

Based in Torquay, the business manufactures Braille signs for the blind and vision impaired.

Judges said Braille Sign Supplies was one of the leading manufacturers in the industry, with a large factory and 11 employees, “thanks to a focus on strategic risk-taking, manufacturing innovation, and providing a unique range of products to emerging niche markets”.

Braille Sign Supplies director Travis Ashford said he was thrilled with the award.

“It means a lot to us to win this, given the work we’ve put in to roll out a world-first production method for Braille signs.”

He said he was delighted to share the awards ceremony with his children, who “motivate me to be the best person I can every day”.

“I really want to thank my team, they’re absolutely red-hot and people who have brought valued skills into the business, and others who have brought their talents while working with us, coming to work each day ready to give 100 per cent.

“During these COVID times it’s important to support local business, buy Australian made, and stay safe.”

For the first time in the history of the awards, which were established in 1984, the GBEA was streamed live via Facebook, Channel 31 and Vimeo for everyone to watch from the comfort of their homes.

More than 2,000 viewers tuned in on Thursday last week to celebrate the success of the Geelong region’s businesses and business leaders.

The live talk-show style event with musical theatre star Natalie O’Donnell as MC acknowledged the GBEA finalists and included live interviews with winners direct from their homes.

The GBEA is one of the few regional business awards in Victoria going ahead this year during the coronavirus pandemic.

Other award winners included:

• Business of the Year – See All Dolphin Swims
• Corporate Social Responsibility – Arthur St Digital
• Digital Engagement – Custom Neon
• Sustainable Business – Kardinia International College
• Home Based/Micro Business – Manse Group
• Health and Wellbeing Promoting Workplace – Crew Faced Makeup Artistry
• Safe and Healthy Business – Memphis Hire
• Small Business or Division/Department – CentreStage
• Medium Business or Division/Department- Boomaroo Nurseries
• Retail Business – You’re Gorgeous Hair & Beauty
• Best First Year – FLAIM Systems
• Inclusive & Accessible – Geelong Gallery