The stage was set, excitement filled the air, and the business community came together at The Pier Geelong to celebrate the best in achievement, innovation, and leadership at the 2024 Geelong Business Excellence Awards.
With anticipation in the air, the winners across multiple categories were officially announced, recognising the outstanding efforts of businesses, business leaders, and young entrepreneurs who have demonstrated excellence across their industries. This year’s event, a highlight of the Geelong business calendar, saw businesses from all sectors celebrated for their commitment to innovation, resilience, and positive community impact.
The gala night kicked off with guests walking the blue carpet, setting a stylish tone for the evening. Sarah Ashmore brought her charm and expertise as the event host, guiding the audience through a celebration of the region’s best and brightest. The event capped off what has been an incredible year for business across the Geelong region. These awards continue to highlight the vital role businesses play in driving innovation, growth, and employment, and the winners are a true reflection of the strength, creativity, and resilience within our community.
Along with major sponsor, LBW Business + Wealth Advisors, we would like to congratulate the following 2024 winners:
- Business of the Year (sponsored by LBW Business + Wealth Advisors: Cabinets by Computer
- Business Leader of the Year (sponsored by bay93.9): Jo Plummer
- Young Entrepreneur of the Year (sponsored by Deakin University): Shannan Gove
- Sustainable Business Award (sponsored by Kenstra): Harvest Experience
- Medium to Large Business Award (sponsored by EML): Scotchmans Hill
- Advanced Manufacturing & Industry Award (sponsored by Southern Star Windows & Doors): Care Essentials
- Corporate Social Responsibility Award (sponsored by Geelong Galvanizing): Storyfolk
- Emerging Business Award (sponsored by The Gordon): Sycle
- Tourism & Hospitality Award (sponsored by Tourism Greater Geelong & The Bellarine): The Arborist
- Safe & Healthy Business Award (sponsored by WorkSafe Victoria): Kennedys Group
- Retail Business Award (sponsored by Roderick Insurance): Mr Brown’s Menswear
- Inclusive & Accessible Award (sponsored by TAC): The Q Train
- Digital Engagement Award (sponsored by Web Force 5): Enterprise Monkey
- Employer of Choice Award (sponsored by City of Greater Geelong): Blackman’s Brewery
- Home-based & Micro Business Award (sponsored by Times News Group): Elizabeth Bell Ceramics
- Small Business Award (sponsored by Envisage HR): Create Balance Psychotherapy and Counselling
- Innovation, Research and Development Award (sponsored by VIVA Energy): Cabinets by Computer
- Health & Wellbeing Promoting Workplace Award (sponsored by Barwon Health): Flying Start Children’s Therapy
- Customer Service Award (sponsored by Spirit Super): Pet’s Country Club
- Best First Year Entry Award (sponsored by Harwood Andrews): Made Great
Geelong Business Excellence Awards and major sponsor, LBW Business +Wealth Advisors, extends its congratulations to all the winners and finalists. Their achievements stand as a testament to the strength and resilience of the Geelong business community.
Geelong Chamber of Commerce CEO Jeremy Crawford congratulated all the finalists and winners, stating, “These awards showcase the remarkable talent within our business community. Every finalist and winner should feel immensely proud of their achievements. They represent the future of Geelong—one that is bold, innovative, and forward-thinking.”
The awards also reflect the importance of sustainability, with this year’s event proudly carbon neutral, thanks to thoughtful planning and the support of our sponsors and partners.
With a sold-out audience in attendance, the event was a spectacular reminder of why the Geelong Business Excellence Awards remain a significant milestone for businesses and entrepreneurs alike.
For more information about the winners click here to access the special GBEA lift out in the Geelong Times.


