Celebrating the best in the biz

By Emily Donohoe

Oct 31, 2024

Murray River Council Mayor John Harvie, Empire Signs Group's Amanda Mallon, Ollie Jolicoeur, Bryson Butler, Amy Fitch, Adrian Russell, Dale Coldwell, Adam Brophy, Jemae Coldwell, Josh Danaher, Sharon Butler and Campaspe Shire sustainability director Michael Sharp. Photo by Aidan Briggs

Business owners’ night of nights, the Campaspe Murray Business Awards, acknowledged the many people working day-in and day-out to keep the region thriving.

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Taking out the top award — Business of the Year — was Kyabram-based business Empire Signs Group.

At Rich River Golf Club on Wednesday, October 30, many business representatives enjoyed a dinner dedicated to honouring this work.

Guests were welcomed to Country by Wollithiga elder Uncle Rick Ronnan, followed by an introduction to the event by Campaspe Shire Council director of sustainability Michael Sharp.

The 2024 Campaspe Murray Business Awards was an opportunity to reward the contributions of local business owners. Photos: Aidan Briggs Photo by Aidan Briggs

While master of ceremonies Anthony ‘Lehmo’ Lehmann had some hiccups on his journey from Melbourne, Ace Radio general manager Angela Parker was able to step in to keep the ball rolling, with the sponsors of each award given the honour of presenting the respective accolades.

ACE Radio general manager Angela Parker dusted off her presenter boots. Photo by Aidan Briggs

Making up for lost time, Lehmo was able to deliver the laughs after the first course.

He provided anecdotes from his time on television series Utopia, life as a father and tribulations as he experiences the passage of time, singling out Riv photographer Aidan Briggs to bring him along for the ride.

The whirlwind of emotions experienced by each award winner remained the highlight of the night, with plenty of tears, laughs and hugs shared by the room.

Murray River Council Mayor John Harvie highlighted the need for businesses in the region to be recognised for their hard work through such events.

“Our businesses are the backbone of our community, and it’s wonderful to be able to recognise their dedication and achievements through the awards,” he said.

“It’s great to see winners from all corners of the area, showcasing the incredible diversity and strength of our local economy.

“We hope the awards continue to inspire ongoing excellence and growth in our business sector.”

Despite the delay, master of ceremonies Lehmo entertained the crowd. Photo by Aidan Briggs

The awards saw 60 applications across its 14 categories, with two external judges reviewing each category, including through on-site visits.

Campaspe Shire Council chief executive Pauline Gordon said before the event she was excited to see the addition of three categories, Excellence in Health & Wellbeing, Excellence in Marketing and the Community Impact Award.

“The popular People’s Choice Award saw a tremendous response, with over 3700 votes cast from the community for their favourite business,” she said.