Whittlesea’s best businesses have been recognised for their hard work as the Business Awards returned for a second year.
Recognising businesses in the municipality who have demonstrated excellence in customer service, innovation, sustainability, community, diversity or as a home-based business, Whittlesea council chair administrator Lydia Wilson said the awards were an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of businesses large and small.
“The awards enable us to shine a spotlight on our thriving local business community and to celebrate the many talented business people in the City of Whittlesea,” she said.
“We were thrilled to receive 74 nominations which is a testament to just how many wonderful businesses we have here in the City of Whittlesea.
“Every business should be commended for their efforts, commitment and successes, particularly in this tough economic climate.”
The award for Sustainability and Environment was given to the Nugal Biik Nursery, a partnership between Whittlesea Community Connections and Hanson Landfill Services.
Whittlesea Community Connection’s Nugal Biik plants and seeds social enterprise partnered with Hanson Landfill Services Wollert Resource Park to combine their expertise to develop long-term, large-scale, circular sustainability initiatives in Whittlesea.
The partnership sees the planting of over 30,000 trees, and enables the further development of the social enterprise Nugal Biik plants and seeds, providing social, economic, and environmental outcomes.
The Community Contribution award went to Thomastown’s Big Group Hug.
The not-for-profit organisation is dedicated to ensuring that babies and children have the essential items they need to thrive.
In 2023, the Big Group Hug received 844 requests to help 1,494 babies and children living in the City of Whittlesea – this equates to providing critical aid to 29 children a week, or 4 per day.
Forty five percent of staff and 20 percent of volunteers live in Whittlesea, providing opportunities for social interaction and vital human connections all while rehoming and recycling goods.
Gerald Lynch
