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Business Excellence Awards

Cairns’ most prestigious and celebrated annual business event.​​​

The Cairns Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence (BEX) Awards, proudly sponsored by James Cook University (JCU), recognises the outstanding achievements of businesses in our region, acknowledging them for their hard work, exceptional business acumen and remarkable contributions to the Cairns community.​

These awards provide a platform from which our outstanding businesses can shine and set a benchmark for others to follow.

Information on the awards and previous award winners can be found on this page. 

During award nominations, links to the nomination process will be available here. 

– Business Resilience (proudly sponsored by CQUniversity Australia)
Recognises a business that has demonstrated strong leadership, tenacity and a solutions-focused vision when faced with adversity.

– Community Contribution (proudly sponsored by Halpin Partners)
Recognises a business that has gone above and beyond to give back to the Cairns community.

– Customer Service: Professional Services (proudly sponsored by Danae Jones Consulting)
Recognises a professional services business that has achieved outstanding results through the implementation of exceptional customer service initiatives.

– Customer Service: Trade, Retail & Services (proudly sponsored by Crystalbrook Collection) 
Recognises a trade, retail or services business that has achieved outstanding results through the implementation of exceptional customer service initiatives.

– Indigenous Business (proudly sponsored by Cape York Partnership)
Recognises a majority Indigenous owned and/or operated business (51% or more) that has made a significant and sustainable impact to the indigenous community through its operations.

– Innovation (proudly sponsored by Cairns Regional Council)
Recognises a business that has successfully implemented an innovative new product, service, strategy or business model, that delivers economic, social and/or environmental benefits.

– Marketing and Communications (proudly sponsored by the Cairns Post)
Recognises a business that achieved outstanding results for their business and/or their client’s business, through an exceptional marketing and communications strategy or campaign.

– People Management (proudly sponsored by CBC Staff Selection)
Recognises a business that has achieved outstanding success through effective people management initiatives.

– Sustainability and Environmental (proudly sponsored by Kinetic)
Recognises a business who is actively working to reduce the impact of their operations on the environment and/or provides products or services that have a positive environmental impact.  

– Emerging Leader (proudly sponsored by James Cook University: College of Business, Law and Governance) 
Acknowledges an outstanding individual, aged 18 – 35, who has demonstrated strong leadership qualities, is committed to personal and professional development, and has made a positive contribution to the Cairns community.

Step 1 – Nominate an exceptional business or emerging leader

Know a local business (it could even be your own!) that deserves to be recognised with a business award?

Perhaps you’ve experienced amazing customer service or been inspired by their community spirit. Whatever makes a business stand out to you, we want to know who they are – and let’s face it, they probably wouldn’t mind hearing it too!

Nominate a Business

And what about emerging talent? Do you know an outstanding individual aged 18–35 who shows strong leadership, is committed to personal and professional growth, and contributes positively to the Cairns community? Then nominate them for the Emerging Leader Excellence Award!

Nominate an Emerging Leader

Notes:
– Emerging Leader Category: All nominations are a business nomination except for the Emerging Leader Award which is an individual nomination.
– Multiple Nominations: The number of nominations a business or individual receives is not considered part of the judging process. Entrants still have to complete a submission if they wish to enter the awards program. Nominating a business or individual multiple times simply means they will receive multiple emails encouraging them to apply – but they will really know how much you love them!

Step 2 – Register to attend an information session

Nomination is just the beginning! To officially enter the Business Excellence Awards, you must complete an online application.

We highly recommend attending one of our free Business Awards Information Sessions, where we’ll guide you step-by-step through the entry process, covering key dates, eligibility criteria, submission questions, and tips on how to craft a standout application.

You’ll also have the opportunity to ask the awards committee any questions you may have.

Step 3 – Confirm that you are eligible to apply

In order to be eligible to enter the Business Excellence Awards, entrants must meet the following eligibly criteria:

Businesses must:
– Have a valid ABN.
– Have a registered business / physical address within the Cairns Regional Council Local Government Area (LGA) boundaries.
– Have a minimum trading history of 12 months within the region as of 1 July 2025.
– Can only enter one (1) award category.

Businesses and Emerging Leaders:
– Must disclose to the awards committee any litigation or insolvency proceedings that may foreseeably affect the reputation of the applicant or, through association, the Cairns Chamber of Commerce.
– Must provide honest and accurate answers to all questions. Failure to do so will result in disqualification.
– Past winners are not permitted to enter the same category in which they won the previous year. They can, however, enter another category or re-enter the same category if more than 12 months have passed since they won.
– You do not have to be a Cairns Chamber of Commerce member to enter the Business Excellence Awards.
– The Cairns Chamber of Commerce reserves the right to declare any submission ineligible if, in the reasonable opinion of the judges, the entrant is unable to represent or promote the awards in a satisfactory manner. The applicant must not, to their knowledge, be involved in any unlawful or illegal conduct.

Emerging Leaders must:
– Work in the Cairns LGA.
– Be born in, or between, the years 1990 and 2007.

Step 4 – Start drafting your submission

Decide on the category you are going to enter and use our How-To-Enter document to start drafting your responses. The category you enter does not have to be the category that you were originally nominated, or self-nominated for. If after reading the submission questions, you feel you are more suited to another category, we recommend you proceed with that.

Step 5 – Upload your submission into the online portal

Once you are satisfied with your drafted responses, you are ready to start uploading your submission into the online portal.

Portal Link: CLICK HERE
Portal Opens: 9.00am AEST _____ 1 August 2026
Portal Closes: 11.59pm AEST _____ 29 August 2026

If you’ve previously participated in the Business Excellence Awards, you can log in using your existing account.

Once you begin your submission, you can save your progress and return to complete it at any time, up until the closing date.

Don’t leave it to the last minute—your submission will require formatting after you upload it, which can take additional time.

Award Force uses a system called Markdown for formatting your content. CLICK HERE for a simple guide on how to create headings, bold or italic text, bullet points, lists, and line breaks using Markdown.

If you wish to include supporting documents, images, or videos, you’ll need to either upload them as attachments or embed them as URL links.

Once you’re happy with your entry, be sure to click the SUBMIT button to finalise your submission.

Step 6 – Finalists announced

Finalists will be announced via social and digital media on _____ September 2026. Finalists will be celebrated at the VIP Finalist Evening on Wednesday 1 October 2025 at Crystalbrook Flynn’s Whiskey and Wine Bar.

Each finalist will receive one (1) complimentary ticket to this event. Details on how to redeem your complimentary ticket will be advised once all finalists have been announced. Additional tickets are available for purchase HERE.

Step 7 – Purchase tickets to the Gala Ball

Winners will be announced at the Gala Ball on _____ October 2026 at the Cairns Convnetion Centre. 

Tickets are on sale now, so get in early to secure your seats! Tables will be allocated on a first-in, first served basis, so the earlier you book, the better seats you will get!

Whether you progress to the finalist stage or go on to win an award, there are so many benefits from simply entering.

– Review
Our Awards provide an opportunity for you to reflect on how far you’ve come, celebrate your wins, identify areas for improvement and plan for the future.

– Team Building
Invite your staff to contribute their ideas and perspectives on your submission and work on your application as a collaborative project. It’s a wonderful way to foster engagement, a positive and inclusive culture, and the enthusiasm it creates is contagious!

– Build your profile
Our Awards provide a platform to share your passion and showcase your business.

– Recognise your team
You and your team work hard every day, and the Awards provide an opportunity to celebrate.

– Networking
Connect with likeminded individuals and network with other successful business leaders.

Nominations

Congratulations! Being nominated does not automatically enter you into the Awards – and does not count towards your final result. It is now up to you to complete a submission. Being nominated means your nominator believes you are worthy of recognition. Explore the How To Enter tab for more information on how to enter.

We encourage you to! While third party nominations are welcome, it is quite normal for a business to self-nominate. No one knows how much you and your team deserve recognition as much as you!

Absolutely! If you know a local business who is doing something great, we want to know who they are and I am sure they would love to hear it too! On the nomination form you can select whether or not you would like your identity to remain anonymous if they ask us who nominated them. Within 72 hours of submitting your nomination, they will receive an email from us, advising them that they have been nominated for an award and the next steps from there.

The number of nominations a business receives does not contribute to the judging process or the entrant’s score. Businesses still have to complete a written submission if they are nominated – and may choose not to. Nominating a business multiple times simply means they may receive multiple emails encouraging them to apply.

No. Judges only assess entries based on information provided in their written submission.

Submissions

No. Use headings, dot points, space between paragraphs and keep it simple and concise. Remember – quality over quantity. You don’t have to use the entire word count if you feel you have already fully answered the question. 

When you type or cut-and-paste your entry into Award Force, normal Word style formatting may not transfer. Award Force uses a system called ‘Markdown’ for content formatting across the system. CLICK HERE for instructions about how to create Headings, Bold, Italics, Bullet Points, Lists and Line Space using Markdown.

Yes. Many copywriters, marketers and grant-writers offer services to assist with award entries. 

Categories

Read the category descriptions and written submission questions carefully. If you are still unsure, we recommend that you select a likely category and then move on to drafting answers to all the questions. Once you have completed answering all the questions, review your category selection and consider if it still feels like the most appropriate choice based on what you have written about your business. 

Eligibility

Yes. As long as you have a valid ABN and your registered business address or place of business or service delivery is located in the Cairns LGA, you satisfy the criteria.

You must have been operating your business for at least 12 months as of the beginning of the current financial year. 

Yes. Businesses must have a current valid ABN.

You must operate your business or provide services within the Cairns Regional Council Local Government Area. If you operate outside of this area IN ADDITION to your business activities within the region, then you are still eligible to apply. If you operate solely OUTSIDE the Cairns Regional Council Local Government Area, then you are NOT eligible to apply.

No. You must operate your business or provide services within the Cairns Regional Council Local Government Area.

No. The Business Excellence Awards are about celebrating the outstanding achievements of all businesses in the Cairns LGA. Membership of the Cairns Chamber of Commerce is not a condition of entry nor considered by the judges in the awards process.

No. You cannot re-enter the same award category in which you won the previous year. You can however enter another category or re-enter the same category if more than 12 months has past since you previously won.

Yes. As long as you did not win the category, you are eligible to re-enter the same category in the following year.

Finalists

There is no set number of finalists per category as this number depend on quantity and quality of the submissions. 

Finalists receive an official “Finalist” logo to display on their website, email footers, social media platforms and/or other marketing collateral. They will receive a finalist plaque to display in their office and a complimentary ticket the the VIP Cocktail Evening. Finalists will also receive recognition and coverage on various social, digital, print and broadcast media platforms, increasing your brand exposure and reputability.

Judges

Judges are invited by the awards management committee. They are recognised and highly regarded members of the Cairns business community. Each year there are approximately 20 volunteer judges. All judges are required to sign non-disclosure agreements and maintain high levels of confidentiality. Judges are also required to advise the awards committee of any applications where there are actual or perceived conflicts of interest.

Each application is assessed by at least 3 judges. Judges individually score their allocated applications and those scores are totalled for a final score. 

Category winners are the business with the highest total score in their category. 

If references or letters of support will assist you to address the selection critieria, then you are welome to add them to your submission. With that being said, there is no guarantee that they will improve your score if the judges do not deem them relevant or adding value to your submission. You will also not be marked down if you do not include them.

Sponsors

Yes. A sponsor can enter the Business Excellence Awards, however, they cannot enter the category the same category in which they are sponsoring.

Major Sponsor & Legacy Award

James Cook University (JCU) is committed to research and teaching that make a difference to life in the Tropics, which are home to more than 40 per cent of the world’s population. With a strong belief that innovation and discovery are the keys to a secure, sustainable future, JCU invites industry experts and local professionals to partner with them in driving innovation throughout Australia and beyond.

From on-the-ground programs designed to support our local businesses and industries, to research grants and facilities for our brightest minds, JCU has a host of initiatives available for you to join. Their postgraduate programs will also equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to reach your greatest potential.

Event Sponsor

Whether you’re busy launching a business or expanding, ANZ is the easy choice, Canstar’s Small Business Bank of the Year a record 10 times.

ANZ is proud to support thousands of Australian businesses each year to start, run and grow with outstanding lending products, services and customer satisfaction that have been recognised by Canstar in their overall award ranking. 

Explore ANZ’s Business Hub to learn about our smart, easy solutions for small businesses and access tips, tools and insights to help you take your next step.

Business Resilience Excellence Award

As Queensland’s only dual sector university, CQUniversity delivers real choices through a diverse array of short courses, TAFE, and university qualifications. Recognised for accessible and innovative education, the Cairns campus offers courses spanning arts, business, engineering, health, sciences, and technology fields with plans to continue to expand its offerings with the construction of its new campus expected by 2028.

Community Contribution Excellence Award

Halpin Partners is one of Far North Queensland’s largest and most trusted independent accounting firms, with offices located in Cairns and Innisfail. With a diverse portfolio of more than 600 clients across Queensland and Papua New Guinea, they offer high-level expertise in accounting, taxation, business advisory, and financial strategy.

Customer Service Excellence Award - Professional Services

Danae Jones Consulting covers all forms of media and all areas of marketing and creative conceptual development. While Danae Jones is the face of the brand, behind her sits the DJC team – multi-award winning marketing strategists, graphic designers, video producers, copy writers, web developers and digital disruptors. The team brings with them over 100 years combined experience in the industry. 

Customer Service Excellence Award - Trade, Retail & Services

Crystalbrook is one of Australia’s leading sustainable and innovative independent hospitality companies. Each hotel in the portfolio carries an authentic expression of its location, a passion for responsible luxury, considered design and a twinkle of fun for a uniquely enriching experience.

Emerging Leader Excellence Award

The College of Business, Law and Governance (CBLG) delivers a range of future-focused business and law courses across Cairns, Singapore, Townsville and Brisbane. Under the leadership of the Acting Dean, Associate Professor Jamie Fellows, the College promotes, fosters, and delivers quality teaching and research with both a local and global reach.

Indigenous Business Excellence Award

Cape York Partnership is a non-profit Indigenous organisation empowering the people of Cape York to choose a life they have reason to value.

Working on areas of policy, empowerment, education, employment, health, language and culture, they co-design their initiatives with the people of Cape York so they can lead the changes they need for their communities to prosper.

Innovation Excellence Award

Cape York Partnership is a non-profit Indigenous organisation empowering the people of Cape York to choose a life they have reason to value.

Working on areas of policy, empowerment, education, employment, health, language and culture, they co-design their initiatives with the people of Cape York so they can lead the changes they need for their communities to prosper.

Marketing & Communications Excellence Award

The Cairns Post has evolved from a broadsheet newspaper to a multi-media company producing Cairns’ only daily newspaper, both online and in paper, along with many special publications. Cairnspost.com.au delivers to Cairns and surrounding areas the most up to date breaking news in Far North Queensland.

People Management Excellence Award

CBC Staff Selection have built a reputation for excellence, not only in terms of matching the best people to the best jobs, but through the exemplary service they provide. With over 35 years experience in Far North Queensland, CBC Staff Selection take pride in their ability to match skilled candidates to your specialist recruitment requirements.

Sustainability & Environmental Excellence Award

Kinetic is the largest bus operator in Australasia and a leading multi-modal mass transit operator globally through its subsidiary Go-Ahead. Kinetic’s network includes 12,000 buses, 36,000 people and 200 depots.

Entertainment Sponsor

At Grant Thornton, care is just as important as capability because they believe that client experience is as important as the outcome. Grant Thornton strive to provide a strikingly different experience – one that’s more personal, proactive, authentic, and agile. To achieve that, they focus on investing in and building their relationship with their clients.

Trophy Sponsor

Cashcor Engineering is your “One Stop Engineering Shop”. From concept to design to manufacturing, Cashcor provide tailormade solutions to meet each client’s specific needs and time restraints. Cashcor’s diverse range of machinery and equipment, housed at their locally owned and operated workshops, enables them to carry out all jobs in-house – without the need to outsource – therefore more cost effective for every client with the added ability to maintain quality control on all works.

Master of Ceremonies Sponsor

Join Tammy and JB for breakfast on 99.5 Triple M each weekday from 6am. It’s a show full of laughs, local stories and heaps of chances to win great prizes. When Tammy and JB aren’t talking you can sing along to the greatest hits. Tammy and JB, the best way to start your day on 99.5 Triple M.

Photobooth Sponsor

Star 102.7 is the radio station made for Cairns and created for those who love everything about the unique and vibrant lifestyle of Cairns and the Tropical North. You will hear all the hits from the late 90s and today, with throwbacks to the best music and classic hits you loved back in the day.  As the most listened-to station in Cairns, Star102.7 is the undisputed #1 choice, connecting with locals, telling their stories, and celebrating moments that matter.

  • Legacy Award (Sponsored by JCU) – Professor Sandra Harding AO – James Cook University
  • Emerging Leadership Award (Sponsored by JCU College of Business, Law and Governance) – Kyle Richardson – FNQ Podiatry
  • People Management Excellence Award (Sponsored by CBC Staff Selection) – Wellness Embodied
  • Customer Service – Trade & Retail Excellence Award (Sponsored by Totally Workwear) – Duncan Powersports
  • Customer Service – Delivery of Professional Services Excellence Award (Sponsored by Pemset Solutions) – Sleep Right, Sleep Tight
  • Marketing and Communications Excellence Award (Sponsored by Cairns Post) – Bad Fishy Jet Boating
  • Indigenous Business Excellence Award (Sponsored by Alive Pharmacy) – MurriiQuu Couture
  • Community Contribution Excellence Award (Sponsored by Maxima) – Cairns Dental Boutique
  • Sustainability/Environment Excellence Award (Sponsored by Regional Development Australia Tropical North) – Small World Journeys
  • Business Technology Excellence Award (Sponsored by NBN Local) – Gathar
  • Innovation Award (Sponsored by Cairns Regional Council) – Gathar

For more information or enquiries about the 2025 Business Excellence Awards, please contact the Awards Committee on:

Phone: 07 4031 1838
Email: bexawards@cairnschamber.com.au
Facebook: Keep up to date with the latest news and follow our Facebook Page

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