“This gives businesses plenty of time to decide which category they fit best and document exactly how they’ve gone above and beyond in 2018 and 2019,” said MidCoast Business Chamber Awards sub-committee spokesperson, Jenny Ashton.

A evening launch function will be held at Tuncurry Bowling Club on Friday March 8 from 6.30pm.

All those involved in the business and the community sector in the MidCoast area can attend the function but RSVPs are necessary by emailing mcbusinessawards@gmail.com

This year, the award entry process has been simplified. All questions and contact details are available on the website https://midcoastbusinessawards.com/

“Answering the award questions, requires a broad brush analysis of the business – things like how well goals have been achieved. Businesses are also encouraged to examine how they have future-proofed their business and gone the extra mile for their customers and staff,” Jenny said.

Categories for entry are: Outstanding Business Leader, Excellence in Business, Excellence in Customer Service, Trades and Construction, Health and Wellbeing, Tourism and Hospitality, Best Start Up, Excellence in Professional Services and Excellence in Retail Services. Multiple entries are also allowed.

The general public will also get a chance to vote for their favourite businesses in the ever-popular People’s Choice Award. Votes accepted on the website and via printed forms available at businesses across the region.

In addition, there will also be awards for Business of the Year, Runner up Business of the Year, Hall of Fame and Community Service.

The awards ceremony will be held on Saturday August 17. The formal occasion will be supported by sponsors: Insurance Advisernet, Holiday Coast Credit Union, Stockland Forster, ETC, Forster Bowling Club, WIN TV, Midcoast Council, Johnson and Thompson Accountants, Concept Design Kitchens, Mid Coast Automotive, Newcastle Permanent, Evermore Retirement Living and Kedwell Constructions.