To heighten suspense, the finalists have been listed together rather than in their individual categories.
Across the six award categories for individuals, there are 13 nominees.
They are Alice McMahon, Elise Clancy, Iain Goodway, Jamie Hicks, Katrina Taylor, Paul Grant, Shannen Murphy, Sonja Lefebure, Tania Neilson, Taylah Betts, Tom McCallum, Tracey Taylor and Will Dudley.
Individual awards to be awarded are:
• Outstanding Employee.
• Outstanding Young Business Leader.
• Outstanding Business Leader (20 employees & under).
• Outstanding Business Leader (21 employees & over).
• Excellence in Customer Service.
• Outstanding Construction/Trade Apprentice of the Year - Will McKern Scholarship.
The awards for businesses and organisations recognise overall performance, innovation and sustainability and contribution to overall economy and the visitor experience to the community.
Finalists across these 14 categories are Cherrywood Emporium, Cruizin* Diner, Dahlsens Deniliquin Mitre 10, Deni Golf Resort, Deni Play on the Plains, Deni RSL, Deniliquin Can Assist, Deniliquin Veterinary Clinic, Edward River Council, Highlight Creative, Intereach, Lugdsin & Deniliquin Motor Group, Rotary Club of Deniliquin, Switched on Mobiles Deniliquin, The Crossing Café, The Depot Historic Vehicle and Memorabilia Collection and Yarkuwa Indigenous Knowledge Centre.
All these businesses are also automatically in the running for the night’s most coveted award - Business of the Year.
Another two special awards will be presented as part of the gala awards evening on August 14.
The Norm Brennan Community Contribution award recognises an individual who has made a significant contribution to the Deniliquin community.
It is named after Mr Brennan who, before his death in 2021, had served more than two decades as a mayor and councillor and also contributed to the community in other capacities.
The Chamber Champion award is awarded to an individual who has continuously demonstrated leadership in the Deniliquin business community and strengthened business networks and collaboration.
All winners will be revealed at the gala awards ceremony, held again at the Deniliquin RSL Club, which is open to anyone.
It starts with a welcome soirée before the formal sit down dinner and presentations.
Guests are encouraged to dress in cocktail attire and enjoy a night of networking, entertainment and celebration.
Tickets are $100 for Deniliquin Business Chamber members and $115 for non-members, with tables of eight or 10 available. Book now at https://www.trybooking.com/DNKDE.
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