After a multi-year break, the Alstonville Wollongbar Chamber of Commerce is once again celebrating local success with the return of the Plateau Business Awards.
Chamber President Jemma Coulter says the awards are a powerful way to support and grow local enterprise.
“We have a dynamic, enterprising business community. These awards help shine a spotlight on that,” she said.
“The 2477 plateau postcode is home to businesses supporting over 10,000 people. Many of our trades and professional services are big players in Ballina, Lismore and surrounding areas. So Alstonville-Wollongbar businesses punch well above their weight -we are up there with the major regional centres.”
Subscribe to our newsletter below and never miss the latest news.
Jemma Coulter knows the benefits of being part of the awards firsthand. She took out two major prizes in 2019 and 2021 for entrepreneurship and young business leadership.
“It really gave me the confidence to grow and expand my business in Alstonville and in Wollongbar. The judges were fantastic, with great helpful feedback.
“Being part of the awards made me assess my business –and it catapulted me forward. That’s the real value.”
The 2025 Plateau Business Awards will feature a broad range of categories to ensure every local business has a chance to be recognised across trades, retail, primary industries and professional sectors.
The categories will be included when the online portal for applications goes live later this week.
“Now’s the time to start thinking of nominating yourself, or even better, why not nominate a great local business that you love and think deserves to be recognised,” Jemma said.
All category finalists will be in the running for Business of the Year, with the chance to progress to the Northern Rivers Regional Awards and potentially the NSW State Awards.
Nominations will close June 12 with winners being announced at a Gala Awards Night at Summerland Farm on July 26.
“It’s going to be a magical evening of music, tapas, and business excellence,” Jemma said.
The Chamber is grateful to Summerland Farm and Business NSW for coming on board as major sponsors, with more sponsorship opportunities available.
For more information or to get involved, email info@alstonvillewollongbar.com.au
Main Photo: Federal Hotel proprietor Vincent Chee receives the award for the Best Hospitality Business at the 2024 Ballina Chamber Business Awards. Now Alstonville and Wollongbar businesses can shine and celebrate at home, with the local awards coming to Summerland Farm on July 26.
This is awesome. I’m a supplier to the region and will definitely be working with a customer on a nomination.