With a clear focus on strategic objectives, Yellow Brick Road – Leongatha has built steady growth by providing clients with a seamless, responsive service, tailored to local needs. Its strong planning, driven team and genuine involvement in the community demonstrate how professional expertise and regional commitment can combine to create an enduring and trusted business.

High Country Hooch Distilling Co has transformed the challenge of a rural location into a strength, building brand loyalty through local events, direct customer engagement and products shaped by regional ingredients and feedback. Its creativity, adaptability, and future plans show how an emerging business can earn attention and market share through authenticity and strong community connections.

Skin & Tonic Gippsland has established strong clinical credibility through evidence-based skincare, advanced treatment practices and a clear focus on client wellbeing. Its continued investment in staff education, emerging technology and accountable strategic planning reflects a business committed to professional excellence, responsible growth and leadership within its industry.

Carter Marine Group has grown into a highly regarded marine construction business by investing in its people, developing innovative solutions and refusing to compromise on quality. Its inclusive workplace culture, bespoke service, strong repeat-customer relationships and expansion plans demonstrate the capability and confidence of a Gippsland business ready to compete on a much larger stage.

Yallambee Traralgon Village for the Aged builds on a proud community legacy through strategic planning, progressive service development and an unwavering commitment to high-quality care. Its innovative approach to meeting residents’ needs, focus on employee satisfaction and clear vision for the future distinguish it as a trusted and forward-looking provider of residential and independent living services.

Ten-Rose International Simmental Fleckvieh applies deep agricultural knowledge and advanced technology to continually improve cattle performance, productivity and market outcomes. Its commitment to innovation is matched by investment in land regeneration and environmental stewardship, is an impressive example of productive, forward-looking and sustainable agriculture.

Scarlet & Grace has built momentum through persistence, adaptability and a strong commitment to product quality. Its ability to respond to market opportunities, refine operations, expand into new markets and create a supportive workplace culture makes it a compelling example of regional innovation and sustainable business growth.

Harman Wines demonstrates exceptional business acumen, combining a clear understanding of its market with measurable goals, rapid growth and an ongoing drive to innovate. Its inclusive practices, commitment to sustainability and community, and focus on creating memorable experiences for locals and visitors make it a compelling example of a modern regional wine business with lasting impact.

Rural Fibre Co is addressing one of regional Victoria’s most persistent challenges by delivering high-quality fibre internet to communities previously considered too difficult or costly to service. Its sophisticated planning, innovative use of technology, rapid creation of local employment and values-led commitment to accessibility, make it a scalable regional enterprise with the potential to transform connectivity across Gippsland and beyond.

A long-established family business, Pettits Jewellers has evolved by responding to changing customer expectations while preserving the expertise and personal service at the heart of its reputation. Its customisable products, innovative virtual try-on technology and commitment to staff development create a convenient and highly personalised experience that positions the business for sustained success.

Progressive Physiotherapy Group has built its success around people, creating a supportive culture that values the goals and strengths of patients and employees. Its considered approach to growth, strong operational safeguards and genuine contribution to the local community demonstrate a sustainable healthcare business where commercial progress and positive human outcomes go hand in hand.

Purpose-led and deliberately human in an increasingly automated market, Mac&Ernie has maintained a clear identity by championing the people and small businesses at risk of being left behind. Its thoughtful planning, strong market positioning and evidence-based growth journey, together with an unwavering commitment to regional communities, make it an authentic and influential Gippsland business.

A community-minded entertainment destination, Phillip Island Tenpin Bowling & Entertainment Centre combines disciplined business planning with a genuine commitment to making recreation welcoming and accessible for everyone. Its investment in inclusive experiences, local partnerships, environmental improvements and innovative attractions has delivered sustained growth and established the business as a standout contributor to both the visitor economy and the Phillip Island community.

East Coast Boats is an innovative small business carving out a strong position in a niche market by combining craftsmanship, customer focus and strategic growth. With standout features like custom-built boats, a lifetime warranty and pioneering design innovations now used globally, it demonstrates a clear commitment to quality, sustainability, and inclusive workforce development.

Empowered Lactation Consulting is a values-driven business that has successfully expanded access to high-quality lactation support through innovative telehealth services. With a strong focus on inclusivity, strategic planning, and community engagement, it continues to grow and evolve, making a meaningful impact for women and families across Gippsland.

Outlook Industries Australia is a standout example of innovation, resilience and purpose-driven growth, operating in a highly specialised and challenging sector. The team has overcome significant hurdles, embraced cutting-edge technology and built a values-led culture that supports both staff and customers. With defence clients, they are making a meaningful impact locally and beyond.

Uncommon Solar and Battery Storage presents a compelling story of resilience and strategic growth. Founded in challenging circumstances, the business is built on a strong foundation of personalised service and a focus on customer satisfaction. With clear goals, thoughtful risk management, environmental responsibility and compliance, it continues to evolve.

A family-run business, The Shed Shop demonstrates a deep understanding of its market, consistently responding to regional demand with diversification and a strong customer focus. Its innovative approach to product presentation, commitment to service excellence and ability to grow market share make it a standout example of sustainable business success in Gippsland and beyond.

Tequa Plumbing & Civil is a long-standing, future-focused business which built on its strong reputation by continuously evolving through strategic planning, innovation and commitment to workforce development. With a clear focus on people, technology and regional service delivery, it remains a standout example of sustainable growth and leadership in Gippsland.

The Make-Up Hub of Gippsland is a dynamic and inclusive business that has grown through innovation, adaptability and a deep understanding of its customers and community. With a strong commitment to accessibility, collaboration and continuous improvement, it stands out as a regional leader in beauty services, empowering clients and staff alike.

Turnbull Motors has successfully blended innovation, customer care and community engagement to drive exceptional growth. With initiatives like real-time service bay viewing and a culture program supporting staff wellbeing, it demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to transparency, operational excellence and building a loyal, values-driven team.

Boat Harbour Jetty is a well-established, award-winning business that has carved out a distinct niche by blending luxury accommodation with immersive local and cultural experiences. Despite its small scale, exceptional customer focus, strategic marketing and passion-driven approach have earned it strong industry recognition and a loyal following.

Combining strong growth, strategic planning and a deep commitment to community and inclusivity, GippsSAFE Security sets a high standard in its industry. With standout initiatives like profit-sharing, support for anxious hospital patients and a diverse workforce, it exemplifies how purpose-driven leadership and innovation can deliver both commercial success and meaningful social impact.

Gippsland Wine Company is a compelling story of resilience and reinvention, transforming from a modest vineyard revival into a thriving enterprise shaped by a thoughtful response to COVID-era challenges. Its commitment to community, adaptability and customer service provides a strong foundation for continued growth.

A long-standing business, Ford Swim Centre has evolved from a small backyard operation into a benchmarked regional facility with strong community ties. With thoughtful succession planning, innovative partnerships and a clear commitment to customer service and staff wellbeing, it continues to thrive while staying true to its purpose of teaching people to swim.

Sweet Life Cafe and Cakes is a values-driven business that has grown through adaptability, quality service and a strong connection to its local community. With a clear vision and passion for what it does, the business continues to evolve and diversify to meet changing customer needs, making it a valued provider in Leongatha ’s hospitality sector.

Embracing technology for future growth, this business is not only innovative in product development, but have also innovated manufacturing processes to increase capacity and efficiency, improved product design and ranges to support for a diverse customer base.

With a proven track record of success, responding to the needs of their clients and differentiating themselves through community engagement, D&I initiatives and delivery of new solutions, Foundation Civil & Mining competes with major players in providing services to heavy industry.

An innovative and inspiring new business that has identified an opportunity, expanding on the concept of work from home to meet a new community demand to provide a shared low-cost accessible work environment that encourages the collective to collaborate, network and grow.

Prioritising exceptional customer service and achieving consistently high levels of satisfaction by implementing improvements and continual innovation, while offering high quality products that are accessible to a wide range of customers and catering to people with different dietary needs.

With a diverse workforce and a passion for sustainability and innovation, this business and industry leader utilises recycled products for new applications, producing quality products to meet the requirements of Australian standards challenging the status quo.

An innovative tourism business where commitment and passion has delivered great growth and a successful first year, with multiple challenges overcome, while utilising technology solutions to create a new tourism experience that provides high levels of customer satisfaction.

Adopting a strategic approach, proactively combatting challenges, differentiating the business in a competitive market, while undertaking comprehensive property renovations and providing a meticulous approach to service, has delivered increased trade, recognition and various awards.

Successfully evolving to meet market needs, adapting to satisfy customer expectations, with a commitment to offer something for everyone, while limiting environmental impact and supporting other local food and wine producers, sets this business apart.

An exceptional business with a clear vision for continued growth and development, by increasing support to their clients while focussing on meeting exceptional demand and ensuring compliance across all aspect of the business’ operations.

Evolving in response to client demand, success has been achieved by understanding clients and the need to deliver value while meeting business needs. Supported by an innovative approach to staff recruitment that demonstrates strong industry leadership and wise business planning.

A holistic, client focused provider who has grown significantly, opened a new location and delivered increased patient capacity by continually delivering excellent customer service, reviewing practice processes and adopting technology to streamline business activities.

A trusted venue with a personal approach that demonstrates a real community focus by doing what it can to give back. Along with continuous facilities improvement and commitment to staff, The Vines on Avon are proud to provide assistance to other hospitality businesses in the area.

Korumburra based Burra Brewing implemented a well-considered, thoughtful and practical strategy to beat COVID-19 restrictions. Its focus was identifying a profitable market segment and adhering to it.

Accreditation has been a major achievement for Olivia’s Place in the past 12 months. Its programs, including client management, relationship management, fundraising campaigns, donation drives and all related outcomes and impacts, are managed through cloud-based program Salesforce.

The Cape Kitchen at Newhaven, Phillip Island, defines its market segments, identifying new opportunities such as introducing innovative experiences during COVID-19 lockdown. It is currently establishing a hot springs/wellness centre development.

Long established Drouin family business, Elite Pack, is a fast-growing innovative business that has expanded year on year since its inception over 25 years ago. It has developed innovative solutions to meet ever changing customer needs in a niche market.

Gippsland Land Services is a specialist in vegetation management, residential, commercial and industrial site maintenance and landscaping works. Located in Moe, the family business has serviced customers in Gippsland and Melbourne’s eastern suburbs for more than 30 years.

A decision to move the business to a remote working model was hastened by the COVID-19 pandemic. Business partners transitioned to work from home-based offices, consequently moving to a paperless system. A cloud-based app was adopted to manage all business processes.

Through the development of a strategy in social media marketing, print, OTA distribution and website channels, Mansi on Raymond has taken the next leap into a highly competitive market. It now competes and succeeds in this market segment, both locally and intrastate.

Wyncity has transformed the Morwell business, offering tenpin bowling, arcade games, bumper cars, laser tag, mini golf, a café and a birthday party venue. It prides itself on creating memories by bringing families and communities together.

Amity Alice Skin and Laser Clinic in Warragul dedicated a significant period of downtime during COVID-19 restrictions in 2020 to re-investment in the business. Amity redesigned and developed an e-commerce website and launched DIY facial kits. A new marketing plan was a strong platform to ensure clients were not forgotten.

This 30-year business in Moe has continually pivoted to respond to changing customer needs and developments within the hardware sector. TM&H Mitre 10 also has a generous reputation as a staunch supporter of many community events.

FGM Consultants was established in 1996 to provide a specialist Training and Consultancy service to the Meat and Food Processing Industry. It has now developed a LMS system that incorporates video footage, PowerPoint presentations, audio recordings and interactive questions and answers to improve user experience and interaction.

Based in Lakes Entrance and now earning well deserved plaudits from a wide geographical community, the COVID-19 lockdowns saw Big Bears Donuts take their donuts to customers through deliveries. The business built a loyal customer base, ensuring repeat business when restrictions lifted.

A well-developed business plan with clear vision and goals, underpins structured growth that has been built on the back of a comprehensive client support model, focused on personalised service delivery.

Business has stayed true to its ethos of service excellence and has done so for 10 years.

Clear demonstration of innovative and diverse solutions being used to meet a diverse range of customer needs.

An environmental leader that has adopted technology to improve business process and enable delivery across differing corporate requirements.

A business making its mark with future growth plans for export, based on environmental and scientific strategies.

A business that has reinvented itself through improved branding and positioning.

A small team making a big impact on the tourism scene in South Gippsland.

Impeccable attention to detail and a focus on meeting customer needs has enabled this business to differentiate and generate success in a highly competitive operating environment.

Strong focus on providing ethical treatment to clients. Good vision and goals.

A growth story reflecting determination, diversification and willingness to take risks. Only business in Gippsland that offers soft skills and communications training.

Clearly defined future goals and business objectives, consistent revaluation of business activities has provided opportunities to streamline operations, improve efficiencies and deliver ongoing benefits.

A solid application highlighting the benefits of managing the various aspects of a business to reduce expenditure and meet the needs of the market. Rebranding and refocusing have paid dividends for this business. Technology, including the introduction of drone photography, has seen the business diversify.

A great success story for an Orbost based business that has identified and met the needs of a specific market segment. Clear goals and marketing approach have delivered results. Also impressive is the business model which recognises the value of new boutique beers and leverages this to generate increased market penetration.

This business relaunched, reinvented and changed its concept to appeal to all and achieved massive growth in a short period. Holds regular polls on Facebook to gauge what clients want. Plans to include a function centre, with seating for up to 150 people, are underway. The business uses a number of environmental products and initiatives to reduce the impact the business has on the environment.

A regionally based business meeting the needs of farmers in an environment with great fluctuations in liquidity. The product is well positioned price wise and future expansion plans provide further opportunity for growth. Strategic partnerships have increased the companies reach and underpin ongoing growth and development.

An innovative small manufacturing business with a clear record of sustained growth, excellent customer service and a just in time delivery process. Supplying both national and international clients, meeting the changing needs of a challenging market has delivered results, with flexibility and internal efficiency recognised as key drivers for business success.

This business taps into opportunities wherever possible. Big on research and development and expansion, the business is exporting products to China, has clear succession planning in place, a strong focus on staff culture, wellbeing and training and community support.

GippsTech has shown that a world-class digital development agency can be built out of a small country town. This excellent business has delivered proven results, providing significant direct and indirect support to the local community. With a clear vision and empathy for the regional community the business is making an impact by improving capacity, generating income and providing real support.

Very focused business with a clear mission and direction. The business is environmentally focused with an outstanding business model, where clearly the values of sustainability are driving the bottom line and contributing to the profitability and community contribution of the business.

Demonstrates leadership by being at the forefront of technology including 3D scanning and printing and also coaching others in the industry. A significant innovation has been the introduction of Dogter Bruce (DOG) to help anxious clients which has created a great deal of interest. The business is accessible to everyone with free dental screenings and sessions for kids as well as accepting free community health service patients.

A successful tourism initiative, grown through careful planning and financial management. A strategic approach to growth and an excellent compliance regime support a sound tourism attraction heavily dependent upon having engaged and active volunteers.

This business has won numerous industry awards. It has incorporated many new initiatives to grow the business including upgrading the indoor swim park and a new chatline when booking in online. Its long-term plan is be known as the best holiday park in Victoria.

Well articulated information about the business, future growth and direction. Excellent detail on services provided and wide range of ways that the business continues to promote itself and grow. Demonstrates strong leadership in its field, placing high value on client feedback and outstanding business planning.