History and Commitee

Representing category sponsor AGL Loy Yang, Graeme has been involved in the Awards since 2010 and is proud to be involved in promoting Gippsland’s leading businesses. As GBA Chair from 2011-2018, Graeme undertook several key initiatives including modernising and rebranding the awards. Graeme stepped back into the role of Chair in 2021 re-launching the awards after their 2020 Covid hiatus.

Life Member, Leo was involved in establishing the awards in 1997 and has undertaken the role of voluntary secretary for over 20 years.  Currently lecturing in marketing and management, Leo is also a business mentor and has been a freelance writer for over 20 years, where he first began writing about Gippsland based businesses.

Life Member and Honorary Treasurer. Pat joined the Gippsland Awards Committee in 2002 and for 20 years played a pivotal role in developing relationships with sponsors, managing administration, coordinating judging, liaising with media and organising the finalist’s breakfast and awards evening.  As well as undertaking the role of Treasurer, Pat continues to provide executive guidance and support to the Committe.

Kirstyn joined the awards in 2018 through her business Gippsland Event Management to provide administrative support and event management to the Gippsland Business Awards committee, including liaison with sponsors and organising the finalist’s breakfast and awards gala.  While stepping away from these roles, Kirstyn has remained on the Committe providing guidance and support.

Lynne joined the committee in a voluntary capacity in 2018. As a proud Gippslander, she feels privileged to be part of the initiative which acknowledges the important role of business in building the region and showcases their achievements in a positive way.

Makayla joined the committee in 2021 with a passion for Gippsland after working closely with business in the region in her previous and current jobs. Makayla looks forward to assisting in raising the profile of the awards among the Gippsland business community via social media.

Kate is an experienced marketing and communications professional who has worked across a range of sectors in Gippsland, and joins the committee as a representative of category sponsor and Gippsland-born private health insurer, Latrobe Health Services. Kate plays a role in supporting the committee to acknowledge and showcase Gippsland businesses, their products and services in the region, and recognising business contribution to our vibrant community.

Representing Triple M Gippsland, this is Stephen’s second time as a Commitee Member.  He has been actively engaged in the Gippsland media sector for many years and sees the great value that the awards bring to our commuity.

Representing Win Television, Casey has supported the business awards indirectly for a number of years and was thrilled to be invited to join the Committee.  She is excited to play a role in running the awards and celebrating the best that Gippsland business has to offer.