The next generation of business talent in Alstonville-Wollongbar is set to shine at the upcoming Plateau Business Awards, returning after a six-year hiatus.

Among the young achievers being recognised is 19-year-old Oscar Murchison, who has been shortlisted for Apprentice/Trainee of the Year.

Oscar began his electrical apprenticeship with Reimann Electrical after completing Year 10 work experience and moving into a school-based trade program. He’s now a full-time employee and already being trusted with significant responsibilities.

“He’s shown great initiative from day one,” said employer Kym Reimann, who relocated his family-run electrical business from South Australia in 2019.

 “Oliver’s at the stage now where we’re getting a van ready for him.

“There’s not many apprentices who get to that level so quickly.”

Reimann said Murchison’s willingness to travel, work independently, and take initiative had made him invaluable to the growing firm.

“He’s respectful, capable and packs up the job site without being asked. It’s rare to find that level of self-motivation in someone his age.”

The awards also recognise the enterprising efforts of Lucy and Lachlan Trease, who’ve been shortlisted for Outstanding Young Business Leaders thanks to their popular micro-bakery TALLN Bakehouse, which they operate from home in Alstonville.

 The business they developed during COVID along with younger brother Noah has developed a strong following for its artisan sourdough bread and pizza bases.

Chamber President Jemma Coulter, a former winner of the young business leader award herself, said it was exciting to see younger leaders recognised in this year’s event.

“It’s especially pleasing to see so many talented young people among the finalists,” she said. “The awards are about backing local business to grow, and this next generation is showing they’re ready to step up.”

“We’re looking forward to a fantastic and fun night of celebration with the Plateau business community, including music, dancing and tapas,” Coulter said.

“There are limited tickets still available, you don’t want to miss this.”

MEET YOUR 2025 PLATEAU BUSINESS AWARD FINALISTS

Alstonville Country Cottages
Alstonville Quality Meats – Excellence in Retail
Alstonville Tennis and Pickleball Club Inc
AS Dance Co
Awesomeville
Benjamin Smith trading as ClubIT
Bonito Peruvian Eatery
Brodie Robinson – Alstonville Quality Meats
Century 21 Plateau Lifestyle Real Estate
Character Zoo
CVS Security
Diamond Jewellery Manufacturers
Fair Dinkum Pickleball
Federal Hotel
Foodworks Wollongbar
Grant Sinclair – Northern Rivers Health
Hinterland Ultrasound
Home Alstonville
Kelly Field – Federal Hotel
Kindred Care
Loida’s Garden Centre
Lotus Psychology (formerly Alstonville Psychology)
Lucy and Lachlan Trease – TALLN Bakehouse
Monique Feain Ballet Coaching
New Directions Online Realty
Nicole Layton – Federal Hotel
Northern Rivers Health
Oscar Murchison – Reimann Electrical
Plateau Air
Plateau Tyres
Quota Alstonville Inc
Raylene Tuthill – Northern Rivers Health
Rejuvenation by The Luxe Beauty Co
Sweet Swirls Ice Cream & Treats
Tarra Nankervis – The Luxe Beauty Co
Village Fresh Fruit and Veg
Vincent Chee – Federal Hotel
Zonta Club of Northern Rivers Inc

🗓 The Plateau Business Awards
📍 Summerland Farm, Saturday 26 July at 6pm
🎟 Limited tickets remaining: Book here