Shop Pet of the Year Award
Description
The Shop Pet of the Year Award recognizes a beloved animal that is part of a local business and brings joy to customers, staff, and the community. This award celebrates the unique charm and welcoming atmosphere that shop pets create, helping to make Kimberley's businesses warm, memorable, and inviting places to visit.
Requirements
11:59pm, September 29, 2025
Nominees must be a pet or animal that is regularly present in a Kimberley business and contributes to the business environment. Eligible nominees must:
- Belong to or be cared for by the business.
- Be known to customers and staff as part of the business's atmosphere.
- Create a welcoming or memorable experience for visitors.
Creative / Media & Design Award
Description
The Creative / Media & Design Award highlights a business or individual that demonstrates creative excellence in media, marketing, or design. This includes graphic design, photography, videography, branding, and digital marketing.
Requirements
11:59pm, September 29, 2025
Nominees may be individuals or businesses in Kimberley working in creative industries. Eligible nominees must:
- Provide services in areas such as graphic design, photography, videography, branding, marketing, or digital media.
- Demonstrate creativity, originality, and professional excellence.
- Have a body of work or projects that showcase innovation and impact.
Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award
Description
The Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award celebrates a young entrepreneur (under the age of 20) who demonstrates strong business acumen, creativity, and innovation. This award recognizes new or emerging leaders who show great potential and inspire others through their entrepreneurial spirit.
Requirements
11:59pm, September 29, 2025
Nominees must:
- Be under the age of 20 at the time of nomination.
- Own, operate, or manage a business or entrepreneurial venture in Kimberley.
- Demonstrate initiative, innovation, and leadership.
- Contribute positively to the community and inspire others through their entrepreneurial spirit.
Home & Mobile Business of the Year Award
Description
Recognizes a home-based or mobile business that shows initiative, creativity, and a strong work ethic while building a successful and sustainable enterprise. This award celebrates businesses that demonstrate resilience and innovation while operating outside of traditional storefront models.
Requirements
11:59pm, September 29, 2025
Nominees must:
- Operate primarily from a home base or mobile setting (e.g., service vans, home offices, online operations).
- Show creativity, initiative, and resilience in building their enterprise.
- Demonstrate sustainable growth or strong potential within their business model.
Retail Services Award
Description
The Retail Services award recognizes a retail business that exemplifies excellence in customer service, innovation, and marketing. This award celebrates shops and retailers that create positive experiences, adapt to changing markets, and strengthen Kimberley's local economy.
Requirements
11:59pm, September 29, 2025
Nominees must:
- Be a Kimberley-based retail business.
- Demonstrate excellence in customer service, merchandising, or innovation.
- Contribute to the vibrancy of Kimberley's shopping experience and local economy.
Restaurant of the Year Award
Description
The Restaurant of the Year Award recognizes a dining establishment in Kimberley that demonstrates excellence in food quality, service, and atmosphere. This award highlights restaurants that consistently deliver outstanding culinary experiences, show creativity and innovation in their menus, and contribute to making Kimberley a vibrant and welcoming community for both residents and visitors.
Requirements
11:59pm, September 29, 2025
Nominees must:
- Operate a restaurant or dining establishment in Kimberley.
- Demonstrate excellence in food quality, service, and customer experience.
- Show creativity in menu offerings or dining concepts.
- Contribute to Kimberley's culinary reputation and community life.
The Health, Wellness & Fitness Award
Description
The Health, Wellness & Fitness Award recognizes a business or organization that has a positive influence on the health and well-being of Kimberley residents. This includes businesses that promote healthy diet, physical activity, and overall lifestyle improvements. Eligible recipients include gyms, fitness instructors, wellness practitioners, and service providers such as physiotherapy, massage therapy, chiropractic care, and other allied health services that contribute to a healthier community.
Requirements
11:59pm, September 29, 2025
Nominees must:
- Be a business, practitioner, or organization operating in health, wellness, or fitness.
- Provide services such as physical training, allied health, nutrition, massage therapy, physiotherapy, chiropractic, or wellness coaching.
- Demonstrate a positive influence on the health and well-being of Kimberley residents.
Professional Services Award
Description
The Professional Service Award recognizes a professional or organization that provides an outstanding specialized service in the professional field; including (but not restricted to) lawyers, physicians, health professionals, veterinarians, accountants, and management consultants.
Requirements
11:59pm, September 29, 2025
Nominees must:
- Be an individual professional or professional service business (e.g., lawyers, physicians, accountants, veterinarians, consultants).
- Provide consistent, specialized, and high-quality professional services.
- Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and customer trust.
Trades Business or Person of the Year Award
Description
The Trades Business or Person of the Year Award recognizes a business or individual involved in the trades that consistently provides a high level of service and quality workmanship, and supports apprentices and growth in their industry.
Requirements
11:59pm, September 29, 2025
Nominees must:
- Be an individual or business in the skilled trades (e.g., construction, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, mechanical).
- Demonstrate excellence in service, safety, and quality workmanship.
- Support industry growth through mentorship, apprenticeships, or innovation.
Community Impact Award
Description
The Community Impact Award recognizes an individual, business or organization that consistently contributes to the benefit of the Kimberley community through volunteerism, sponsorship, and community leadership.
Requirements
11:59pm, September 29, 2025
Nominees must:
- Be an individual, business, or organization based in Kimberley.
- Demonstrate consistent contributions to community life (through volunteerism, sponsorship, leadership, or other forms of engagement).
- Show measurable positive impact on the Kimberley community.
Non-Profit / Community Organization of the Year Award
Description
This award celebrates a non-profit or community-based organization that makes significant contributions through service, advocacy, or engagement. This award highlights groups that demonstrate leadership, collaboration, and dedication to improving the quality of life in Kimberley.
Requirements
11:59pm, September 29, 2025
Nominees must:
- Be a registered non-profit, charity, or community-based organization.
- Demonstrate leadership and dedication in advancing community well-being.
- Provide programs, advocacy, or services that make a tangible difference in Kimberley.
Sustainability & Environmental Leadership Award
Description
The Sustainability & Environmental Leadership Award recognizes organizations that demonstrate outstanding environmental practices and stewardship. This award highlights businesses and organizations that lead by example in reducing their footprint, promoting sustainability, and protecting our natural environment.
Requirements
11:59pm, September 29, 2025
Nominees must:
- Be a business or organization with operations in Kimberley.
- Demonstrate environmental stewardship through sustainable practices, innovation, or education.
- Show measurable impact in reducing environmental footprint or protecting local ecosystems.
Tourism Excellence Award
Description
Focus: Visitor Experience & Attraction
The Tourism Excellence Award celebrates a business, organization, or individual that has made significant contributions to attracting and engaging visitors to Kimberley. This may include guiding services, tour operators, attractions, event organizers, or other tourism-focused enterprises that help showcase Kimberley's unique character, culture, and natural beauty, strengthening its appeal as a must-visit destination.
Requirements
11:59pm, September 29, 2025
Nominees must:
- Be a business, individual, or organization operating in Kimberley's tourism sector (e.g., tour operators, attractions, guides, event organizers).
- Provide outstanding visitor experiences that promote Kimberley's culture, character, and natural beauty.
- Contribute to attracting visitors and strengthening the local tourism economy.
Hospitality Excellence Award
Description
Focus: Accommodation & Guest Experience
The Hospitality Excellence Award recognizes a business or individual in the accommodation sector — including hotels, lodges, B&Bs, or other lodging providers — who consistently demonstrates exceptional service, guest care, and professionalism. This award highlights those who create memorable stays, foster welcoming environments, and contribute to Kimberley's reputation as a warm and inviting destination.
Requirements
11:59pm, September 29, 2025
Nominees must:
- Be a business or individual in Kimberley's accommodation or guest services sector (e.g., hotels, motels, B&Bs, lodges, guest homes).
- Demonstrate consistent excellence in hospitality, professionalism, and guest experience.
- Help enhance Kimberley's reputation as a welcoming destination.
Inclusivity Award
Description
Recognizes a business or organization that fosters a workplace culture promoting inclusion and diversity. A business or organization that educates staff about equity-deserving groups and creates a supportive and welcoming environment for all people.
Requirements
11:59pm, September 29, 2025
Nominees must:
- Be a business or organization operating in Kimberley or the surrounding district.
- Demonstrate clear policies, practices, or initiatives that promote inclusion, equity, and diversity.
- Provide education, training, or awareness for staff about equity-deserving groups.
- Create a supportive and welcoming workplace that encourages participation and belonging for all people.
Employee of the Year Award
Description
The Employee of the Year Award recognizes an employee who is personable and respectful, strives for excellence, and plays a vital role in the success of their business. This award celebrates individuals who embody reliability, dedication, and a positive workplace attitude.
Requirements
11:59pm, September 29, 2025
Nominees must:
- Be an employee of a Kimberley-based business.
- Demonstrate reliability, professionalism, and dedication in their role.
- Contribute significantly to workplace success and embody positive workplace values.
Employer of the Year Award
Description
The Employer of the Year Award acknowledges a business that excels in creating a positive workplace culture, supporting staff engagement, and fostering retention and growth opportunities. This award recognizes organizations that prioritize the well-being and success of their employees.
Requirements
11:59pm, September 29, 2025
Nominees must:
- Be a Kimberley-based business or organization.
- Demonstrate a positive workplace culture that fosters employee well-being, retention, and development.
- Show commitment to supporting and empowering staff.
The Keystone Award - Businesses Open for 5+ Years
Description
The Keystone Award celebrates a business that has made long-term contributions to the local economy and community. This award recognizes organizations that have been anchors in Kimberley for 5+ years, consistently delivering value, stability, and community pride.
Requirements
11:59pm, September 29, 2025
Nominees must:
- Be a business operating in Kimberley for at least 5 consecutive years.
- Demonstrate consistency, resilience, and long-term contribution to Kimberley's economy and community.
- Serve as an anchor and source of pride in the business community.
Happy Hans Award
Description
The Happy Hans Award honours the spirit of Chester “Happy Hans” Righton, Kimberley's beloved official greeter who embodied warmth, hospitality, and community pride. Known for his Bavarian dress, his ever-present smile, and his dedication to welcoming visitors, Chester became a symbol of Kimberley's character and charm. This award recognizes an individual, business, or organization that promotes Kimberley's unique spirit through friendliness, creativity, and contributions that bring joy and pride to the community. The recipient will also receive a $500 grant to support their ongoing efforts.
Open to groups or individuals who carry forward Chester's legacy of being a positive, welcoming face for Kimberley, especially in ways that enhance its culture, tourism, or community pride.
Requirements
11:59pm, September 29, 2025
Nominees should demonstrate one or more of the following:
- Actively promote Kimberley in a positive and welcoming way, either locally or beyond.
- Embody friendliness, hospitality, and community pride through their work or volunteer contributions.
- Enhance Kimberley's reputation through arts, culture, entertainment, or tourism-related initiatives.
Represent the community in a manner that fosters joy, connection, and a sense of belonging.
Business of the Year Award
Description
The Business of the Year Award celebrates the pinnacle of business excellence in Kimberley. This award recognizes a business that consistently exceeds customer expectations, demonstrates innovation and leadership, and contributes significantly to making Kimberley a better place to live, work, and do business.
Requirements
11:59pm, September 29, 2025
Nominees must:
- Be a Kimberley-based business.
- Demonstrate overall excellence in customer service, innovation, leadership, and community contribution.
- Serve as a model of business success and positive impact within the community.
