Awards for Local Businesses & Organisations

The region’s outstanding business operators and not-for-profit entities were recognised last night at the Tablelands Business Excellence Awards ceremony, attended by nominees, sponsors and guests.

‘The awards celebrate the vital contribution local organisations and businesses make to our region, both economically and as part of our community,’ said Mayor Rod Marti

‘It was fantastic to see 37 businesses and organisations nominated across the 10 categories, and 2030 votes for the People’s Choice category.

‘Thanks to all our sponsors for their support of the event, and our community for recognising the efforts of local businesses and organisations.

‘The award finalists and winners of the 2025 Tablelands Business Excellence Awards were:

Champion Business sponsored by Mangoesmapping

Award winner — Lake Barrine Teahouse
Finalists — Cowgirl Country; LJ Hooker Atherton, Malanda and Mareeba; Smart Bookkeeping FNQ; and The Millstream General Store and Cafe.

Community Contribution Excellence sponsored by Kaban Green Power Hub

Awards winner — Atherton Tablelands Agricultural Society Inc.
Finalists — Ashley Cupitt Boxing Academy, i’ara Specialist Support Coordination, and Kidner Contracting Pty Ltd.

Customer Service Excellence — Professional Services sponsored by Elders Insurance Tablelands

Award winner — Loan Select Tablelands
Finalists — Andrea’s Counselling Services, and Think Tank Coaching.

Customer Service Excellence — Trade, Retail & Services sponsored by Malanda Seafood

Award winner — The Crystal Caves
Finalists — Far North Office Choice, Malanda Collective, Sharlynn by the River Bed and Breakfast, and Winter and Mann.

Employer of Choice sponsored by Black Star Radio

Award winner — Healthwise Physio

Food & Agribusiness Excellence sponsored by NAB Regional and Agribusiness

Award winner — FNQ Honey and Bees, and Herbert River Produce.
Finalist — Crater Mountain Coffee, Golden Oak Produce, Natural Living Co., and Tablelands Better Beef Open Day.

New & Emerging Business sponsored by Healthwise Physio

Award winner — Millstream Meadows
Finalists — EcoK9 Consulting

Sustainability Environmental Contribution Excellence sponsored by Cairns Hardware

Award winner — Hair By Eva
Finalists — The Country Mile Cafe

Technology & Innovation Impact sponsored by Launch Y(E)P Tropical Innovation Festival

Award winner — Mangoesmapping
Finalists — Telpara Hills Brangus and UltraBlacks

People’s Choice sponsored by nbn Local

Award winner — Think Tank Coaching (320 votes)
Finalists — Malanda Collective (295 votes), Cowgirl Country (288 votes), Walkamin Caravan Park (208 votes), and Herbert River Produce (123 votes).

‘Local businesses play a crucial role in small communities by providing jobs, stimulating economic growth and fostering a sense of community pride.

‘They are an integral part of who we are as a community and we value their contribution to the region,’ Mayor Rod Marti said.

Photo: Champion Business winner Felipe Rodriguez from Lake Barrine Teahouse with Mayor Rod Marti. © JH Photography and Prints.