The finalists are in! Bass Coast Shire Council is excited to reveal the finalists for the 2025 Bass Coast Business Awards, a celebration of the excellence, innovation, and passion that powers our local business community.
Each year, the Awards shine a spotlight on local success stories through two streams: the Judged Awards, recognising outstanding performance and innovation, and the People's Choice Awards, where our community champions the businesses they love most.
This year's Judged Awards attracted 46 entries, a strong signal that forward-thinking and entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in Bass Coast. Business Innovation proved to be the most popular category, followed closely by New Business. Expertly judged thanks our amazing independent judges who volunteer their time to judge the submissions.
When it came to the People's Choice Awards, the support was just as strong. Nearly 2,000 votes were cast across the 7 categories, impressively recognising 149 different businesses. It's a number that might surprise some, how many local businesses could you name? It shows just how broad, connected and valued our local economy truly is.
No surprises in a region known for its passionate producers and paddock-to-plate experiences, Food and Beverage stood out as the most popular People's Choice category, with the highest number of business nominations and almost a quarter of all votes. It's clear our community has a real appetitie for great local produce and hospitality, with standout finalists like Beachside Bakehouse, Harman Wines, and Hotel Phillip Island all in the running.
Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Rochelle Halstead said the Awards are a chance to stop and recognise just how far our local businesses have come:
"I talk to business owners every day and I'm constantly blown away by their passion, adaptability and drive, whether they've been in the game for decades or just starting out," Cr Halstead said.
"I hope everyone who entered the awards takes a moment to reflect on how far they've come. These awards are your night to celebrate your achievements, enjoy a well-earned night off, and connect with others who are building something special here in Bass Coast - especially in a year where nearly 150 businesses were nominated by the community itself."
Winners will be announced at our Celebration Night on Friday, 22 August, at Silverwater Resort in San Remo. Whether you're there to cheer on your business, connect with industry leaders, or get inspired to throw your hat in the ring next year, this is the night for it.
Tickets are now available at 2025BassCoastBusinessAwards.eventbrite.com.au
