Margaret River Chamber of Commerce gears up for September 14 annual awards at the Heart

The Margaret River Chamber of Commerce annual business awards are running again this year and operators keen to get involved have until July 10 to finesse their submissions. The chamber awards, known as the highlight of the local business community calendar, will be held at the Margaret River Heart on September 14 after they were disrupted by COVID-19 in 2022. Between now and September, businesses keen to lift their profiles, get recognition for their 2022-23 achievements, or simply dive in to the local business community were encouraged to get cracking. Chamber executive officer Annie McFie promised a red carpet gala event this year, with businesses and operators pitching in to provide the best of the region’s fine wines and gourmet foods as part of the overall shindig. “Application packs will be available on the chamber website from May 1,” she said. “We will also be holding several awards-ready seminars to support businesses through the application process and improve chances of success. “The event, however, is about much more than taking home a trophy. It’s a wonderful opportunity to share business stories, triumphs and challenges, and come together as a community to celebrate the incredible businesses and business people in our region.” Platinum sponsor Settlers Tavern confirmed its involvement in the 2023 awards. “Our regional business awards celebrate the unique and creative industries in our own backyard,” owner Rob Gough said, “and most importantly, the spirit and people behind them. “After the year we’ve just had, it will be fitting to celebrate the diligence and hard work that is at the heart of our local community.” Chamber president Miriam Bailey from AMD Chartered Accountants said the awards also focused on innovation across all sectors. “The business awards are all about recognising excellence in business and I think our local businesses deserve that recognition in the public forum that the business awards provide,” she said. Businesses can also get involved by providing awards sponsorships or donating their food and drink offerings for the night of nights. Ms McFie said volunteers and donations all helped with funding the event and meeting the ongoing costs of running the chamber. Expressions of interest could be submitted to admin@mrcci.com.au.