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The excitement is building across the Hawkesbury as judging begins for the 2025 Hawkesbury Local Business Awards, with hundreds of local finalists preparing for their mystery shopper visits.
Shops are being polished, counters straightened, and smiles fine-tuned as staff quietly wonder if the next customer through the door might just be one of the anonymous judges.
Awards founder and Precedent Productions Managing Director Steve Loe said thousands of businesses registered for this year’s program — a record that reflects the growing confidence and creativity of the Hawkesbury business community.
“The anonymous judges will visit each finalist and assess every aspect of customer service,” Mr Loe explained. “They’ll be looking at everything from how customers are greeted to staff knowledge, value for money, and even how businesses present themselves online through their websites and social media.”
Finalists have also submitted information about their history, staff training and motivation, community involvement, sustainability initiatives, and future goals — offering judges a holistic view of each business’s contribution to the region.
A Celebration of Local Spirit
The Hawkesbury Local Business Awards have been celebrating business excellence for an extraordinary 35 years, recognising the hard work and resilience of local enterprises. This year, there are 314 finalists across 28 categories — a testament to the progressive and innovative spirit driving the region forward.
Mayor Clr Les Sheather congratulated all finalists, acknowledging their vital role in the community:
“The business community forms the core of any successful city, and I am proud of the resilience and commitment our business community has demonstrated in what have been, for many, challenging times,” Cr Sheather said.
“On behalf of our city, I extend congratulations to all finalists and look forward to celebrating their achievements.”
The Gala Event
The much-anticipated awards presentation will take place on Tuesday, November 4, at the Windsor Function Centre. Mr Loe described the evening as “the night of nights” for small business, featuring high-class entertainment, fine dining, and the suspense of watching winners revealed one by one.
“Finalists tell us how much they and their staff look forward to the awards presentation,” Mr Loe said. “It’s an evening to enjoy each other’s company, network, and celebrate the pride they take in their work.”
Tickets are now on sale through www.thebusinessawards.com.au and are expected to sell quickly.
Community Partnerships Power the Program
The awards are proudly supported by Presenting Partner: Commonwealth Bank, Major Partners: NOVA Employment and Richmond Marketplace, and Support Partners: White Key Marketing, Hawkesbury City Chamber of Commerce, and media partners including The North West News and The Hawkesbury Gazette.
“Their ongoing support reflects their commitment to local businesses and is essential to the success of the program,” Mr Loe said.
For more information, contact Precedent Productions on (02) 8363 3333 or visit www.thebusinessawards.com.au.
