1. Retail Business of the Year
This category is open to shop-front retail sales businesses such as clothing stores, book stores, home ware stores, furniture stores and travel shops. The winning retailer will be able to demonstrate knowledgeable service and a real understanding of both their product areas and their customers’ needs. The winner of this category will have a market position and an outstanding business performance including their customer service. In addition to the General Criteria, specific criteria that will be considered for this award include: any unique marketing strategy and success, community involvement, and exceptional, informed customer service. This year the nomination for Retail Business of the Year will incorporate a public vote. 
 
2. Service Business of the Year
This category is open to those that service other businesses or the general public. For example, a trades-person, landscaper or mowing contractor, ironing, sewing, car detailing, maintenance or other assorted trade and service providers. The focus of this award is on both the facilities and services provided to the community or businesses.  Some of the areas considered are the quality of the particular service provided and the level of customer service and responsiveness that goes with it.
 
3. Industrial and Manufacturing Business of the Year
This category is open to production, manufacturing, wholesale, transport, builders, construction companies and trades suppliers. This Award will single out a company that demonstrates excellence in its operations. Eligible companies will demonstrate how they are embracing today’s challenges and overcoming hurdles to remain competitive. Qualifying companies must have a proven track record in job growth, improved corporate revenues, and capital investments. They will also illustrate a strong commitment to their workforce. 
 
4. Professional Business of the Year
This category is open to consultants, lawyers, accountants, financial services, doctors, podiatrists, veterinarians, real estate, marketing, engineering and management, human resources/ recruitment, public relations, and event management businesses. This award will be presented to a company that has demonstrated outstanding service and whose achievements have aided a particular establishment, group or area in their professional field.
 
5. New Business of the Year
This category is open to any business trading for a period of less than 2 years as at 30th June 2011. The New Business will exhibit economic sustainability by growth in sales, services and/or growth in the number of individuals served and/or expanded programs and services. The entrant should also demonstrate a commitment to ethical business practices, a commitment to employee support and development, and to corporate citizenship and/or community leadership.
 
6. Eco Friendly Business of the Year
The Award will demonstrate innovation and commitment to a product or service that supports sustainable living. Entries must include evidence of the application of sustainability principles and the effect on the environment of the actual product and service in its use. The judging criteria will also consider the management of the environmental aspects of the ‘whole of life’ cycle’
 
7. Tourism Business of the Year
This category is open to tour operators, tourist attractions, and tourist activity operators. The focus of this award is on  the quality of facilities and services provided  and the degree to which they enhance the Tourism experience within our region. Also considered is the quality of customer service provided and responsiveness to customer needs that goes with it.

8. Hospitality Business of the Year
This category is open to cafes,restaurants, clubs and function centres. The focus of this award is on both the facilities and services provided that enhance the Hospitality experience for customers.  One of the main areas considered is the quality of the particular customer experience provided including the level of customer service and responsiveness that goes with it.

 
9. Accommodation Business of the Year
This category is open to all hotels, motels, tourist and caravan parks, backpackers, bed and breakfast, self catering, and cabin facilities that offer accommodation in the region. The focus of this award is on the quality of facilities and services provided including the level of customer service and responsiveness that goes with it.
 
10. Franchise Business of the Year
This category is open to all business owners who operate under a franchise model such as Baker’s Delight, McDonalds, Gloria Jeans, or Night Owl. This award will be presented to a company that has demonstrated outstanding service, a commitment to supporting their staff and the local community.

 
INDIVIDUAL CATEGORIES

11. Outstanding Customer Service Person of the Year
This award will go to an individual that provides customers with a consistent excellence in service that goes beyond customer expectations. The individual is also one who encourages other staff to meet changing customer needs and stands behind their product or service with minimum customer inconvenience.
 
12. Outstanding Business Person of the Year
Nomination into this category is by self-nomination from all other business categories above.