The energy was electric. The stage was set at the Geelong Arts Centre as our business community came together to celebrate what makes this region extraordinary; excellence, innovation, and leadership at the 2025 Geelong Business Excellence Awards.
With anticipation high, twenty winners were revealed. All remarkable businesses, leaders, and young entrepreneurs who continue to redefine what’s possible in Geelong. Each one proof that when passion meets purpose, great things happen.
This year’s Awards, one of Geelong’s most anticipated nights, shone a spotlight on our region’s creativity, determination, and unstoppable drive. Across every sector, businesses were recognised for their bold ideas, sustainable practices, and lasting community impact. Together, they reminded us why Geelong is fast becoming a powerhouse of innovation and growth.
Guests arrived in style on the red carpet before stepping into the spectacular Geelong Arts Centre. Angie Hilton brought her trademark warmth and flair, guiding us through an inspiring, Oscar-style celebration.
And of course, Andy from The Piano Bar had Geelong’s businesses singing, clapping, and smiling, the perfect soundtrack to an unforgettable night.
The 2025 Awards celebrated more than success; they celebrated spirit. The drive, resilience, and ingenuity that define our region.
These businesses are shaping the future of Geelong, creating jobs, opportunities, and a city that continues to rise.
Together with our major sponsor, LBW Business + Wealth Advisors, we’re proud to honour every finalist and winner whose vision and leadership make Geelong a thriving, future-focused region.
Congratulations to the outstanding winners of the 2025 Geelong Business Excellence Awards!
Business of the Year sponsored by LBW Business + Wealth Advisors – Kennedys Group
Employer of Choice sponsored by City of Greater Geelong – GMHBA
Innovation, Research & Development sponsored by VIVA Energy Australia – Microkeeper
Advanced Manufacturing & Industry sponsored by Advanced Fibre Cluster Geelong – Kennedys Group
Small Business sponsored by Gawk – Body Recon
Digital Engagement sponsored by Logicalis – Spirit of Tasmania
Health and Wellbeing Promoting Workplace sponsored by Barwon Health – Create Balance Psychotherapy and Counselling
Sustainable Business sponsored by SPM – Harvest Experience
Best First Year sponsored by Harwood Andrews – Quest Geelong Central
Safe and Healthy Business sponsored by WorkSafe – Psychs in Schools
Retail Business sponsored by Roderick Insurance Brokers – Mr Brown’s Menswear
Customer Service sponsored by Care Super – Norlane Dental Aesthetics & Implants
Medium to Large Business sponsored by Recreate – QA Electrical
Corporate Social Responsibility sponsored by Furphy (Geelong Galvanizing) – Sycle
Emerging Business sponsored by The Gordon – Surf Coast Women’s Health Group
Tourism & Hospitality sponsored by Tourism Greater Geelong & The Bellarine – The Q Train
Inclusive & Accessible sponsored by TAC – Montessori Minds Childcare & Kindergarten
Home-based and Micro sponsored by Destination Happiness – Elizabeth Bell Ceramics
Business Leader of the Year sponsored by bay 939 – Aamir Qutub
Young Entrepreneur of the Year sponsored by Deakin University – David Greenwood
For more information about the winners, click here to access the special GBEA lift out in the Geelong Times.