Submissions now open for 2025 Scenic Rim Business Excellence Awards

Local businesses and organisations across the Scenic Rim are being encouraged to put their best foot forward, with submissions opening for the 2025 Scenic Rim Business Excellence Awards from 3 September 2025.
Hosted by Scenic Rim Regional Council, the biennial awards program shines a spotlight on local businesses that are setting benchmarks in innovation, customer service, productivity and community contribution.
Scenic Rim Mayor Tom Sharp said the awards are a proud celebration of the region’s entrepreneurial spirit and business fortitude.
“Our local businesses are the backbone of the Scenic Rim economy. These awards provide a platform to acknowledge the outstanding effort and achievement that happens across our region every day,” he said.
“Scenic Rim Regional Council is committed to the development and growth of our region’s businesses. The Business Excellence Awards present an opportunity to connect with and celebrate our region’s best.”
Council has updated the award categories for 2025 to reflect the growth and diversity of the region’s business landscape with the inclusion of new categories including Excellence in Health and Wellbeing, Excellence in Education, and Excellence in Innovation and Sustainability, as well as an additional tourism category for Excellence in Accommodation.
Councillor Marshall Chalk, who oversees Council’s Economic Development portfolio, encouraged all local businesses to consider entering – regardless of size or industry.
“Entering the awards gives Scenic Rim businesses a chance to reflect on what they’ve achieved, identify opportunities for growth, and celebrate how far they’ve come. It’s not just about the trophy – it’s about recognising your progress.” Cr Chalk said.
“Whether you’re a new business just getting started or a long-time local operator making a quiet impact, this is your chance to be recognised.
"I strongly encourage our business community to get involved.”
This year’s program will include the opportunity for businesses to register for an award writing workshop, supporting their entry process and strengthening their skills in submissions and grant writing.
Award categories for 2025 include:
- Excellence in Tourism
- Excellence in Accommodation
- Excellence in Hospitality – Food and Dining
- Excellence in Retail
- Excellence in Agriculture, Trade and Construction
- Excellence in Health and Wellbeing
- Excellence in Education
- Sustainability and Innovation Award
- Trainee/Apprentice of the Year
- Most Outstanding New Business
- Business of the Year Award
Submissions are open to all businesses and organisations operating in the Scenic Rim Local Government Area.
For further information, visit www.scenicrim.qld.gov.au/BusinessExcellenceAwards, the submission platform SmartyGrants opens Wednesday 3 September and closes Friday 14 November 2025. Winners will be announced at a Gala Awards evening on Friday 20 March 2026.
To learn more, view the entry guide and submit a nomination, visit: https://scenicrim.qld.gov.au/BusinessExcellenceAwards