Torquay Business Award finalists revealed

The finalists of the 2024 Torquay Business Awards were announced on Monday this week. Pictured here are: (Back, L-R) Champion Blinds' Craig Smith, Commerce Torquay's Rob Skehan and Natural Real Estate's Jake Equid. (Middle, L-R) Nelson Financial's Paul Nelson, Natural Real Estate's Shaun O'Callaghan, Commerce Torquay's Anthony Santilli, Latisha Williamson, Wolf Telstra Partner's Andrea Barnes, Head Judge Les Watson, Art of the Minds' Jules Haddock, All Aboard disABILITY's Kate Marshall and Helen Cini, Natural Real Estate's Steph Fry and The Sands Resort's Annie Glasson. (Front, L-R) Dustys Bulk Foods' Lisa Newton, Commerce Torquay's Sarah Minter and Surf Coast Women's Health Group's Amy McElgunn, Niamh Logue and Courtney Weybury. Photo: PETER MARSHALL

COMMERCE Torquay, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Torquay, has this week announced the finalists in the 2024 Torquay Business Awards, presented by the Surf Coast Times.

Now in its third year, the awards are open to businesses operating across the 3228 postcode and celebrate the individuals and businesses that inspire the community with their passion, courage and innovation.

Les Watson said it was an honour to serve as head judge for this year’s awards, and it was no easy task to narrow down the strong field of contenders to a list of finalists.

“With over 60 impressive entries and over 100 nominations, the calibre of businesses in our community continues to exceed expectations.

“The dedication, innovation and commitment demonstrated by all entrants reflect the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit that thrives in Torquay.

“Each submission presented a unique and valuable contribution to our local business landscape, and the judges faced a real challenge in determining the final selections.

“Congratulations to all the finalists! Your excellence stands as a testament to the incredible talent we have in our region, and I look forward to celebrating your success on awards night.”

Announced on Monday this week, this year’s finalists in each of the Torquay Business Awards’ seven award categories are:

Not-for-profit:

All Aboard disABILITY Support Services
Art of the Minds
Torquay Community House

Trade Services:

Bellarine and Westcoast Refrigeration Services
Jacka Bros Pest Control
Winki Energy

Retail:

Dustys Bulk Foods
Litter Lock
Wolf Telstra Partner

Tourism and Hospitality:

Blackman’s Brewery
Go Rive A Wave
Mr Archer Wine Bar

Professional Services:

Grand Slam Physiotherapy
Nelson Financial
Vision Radiology Torquay

Business Leader of the Year:

Andrea Barnes – Wolf Telstra Partner
Ben Niblett – Go Ride A Wave
Craig Smith – Champion Blinds
Kate Marshall – All Aboard disABILITY Support Services

Business of the Year:

Braille Sign Supplies
Go Rive A Wave
Natural Real Estate
Surfcoast Women’s Health Group

“To those who weren’t named finalists this year, I want to acknowledge the hard work and achievements that brought you to this point,” Mr Watson said.

“Every entry deserves recognition and I encourage you to keep pushing forward, as your efforts are vital to our community’s continued growth.”

This year’s Torquay Business Award winners will be crowned at a gala event on November 18 at The Sands Resort, Torquay.

For more information, or to secure your tickets, head to commercetorquay.com.au