A specialty caterer operating from a thriving, home-based kitchen has been named the 2026 Manningham Business of the Year.
Gourmet Guru Catering Pty Ltd, which operates out of Donvale, received the municipality's highest business accolade at the 2026 Manningham Business Awards, held on Thursday 22 October.
Delivered in partnership with Rotary Manningham City, the awards celebrate outstanding achievement across our business community, recognising those that demonstrate innovation, excellence and leadership.
Gourmet Guru Catering, which also won the Home-based Business Award, was nominated for delivering high-quality catering services and personalised customer experiences while supporting local events, organisations and communities.
Manningham Mayor, Cr Jim Grivas, congratulated all the award winners and finalists.
"Congratulations to Gourmet Guru Catering on being named Manningham's 2026 Business of the Year," Cr Grivas said.
"Their success reflects the hard work, creativity and customer focus that underpins so many of Manningham's outstanding local businesses.
"While we celebrate our winner, I'd also like to recognise the remarkable achievements of every finalist and indeed every business in Manningham.
"It's their passion, innovation and dedication that helps make Manningham a great place to live, work and do business," Cr Grivas said.
Category winners:
Community Contribution: Warrandyte Riverside Market
Warrandyte Riverside Market was awarded for supporting local businesses, community organisations and volunteers while creating opportunities for connection, participation and community investment across Manningham.
Emerging Business: Farm Services Pty Ltd
Farm Services Pty Ltd was awarded for building an innovative and growing business that supports local producers, hospitality experiences and regional tourism opportunities.
Everyday Services: Face Your Brows
Face Your Brows was awarded for delivering personalised beauty services and exceptional customer experiences that support client confidence, wellbeing and local business collaboration.
Health and Fitness: Little Birds Allied Health
Little Birds Allied Health was awarded for delivering inclusive allied health services that improve access to care, support child development and strengthen outcomes for children and families from diverse backgrounds.
Home-Based Business: Gourmet Guru Catering Pty Ltd
Gourmet Guru Catering Pty Ltd was awarded for delivering high-quality catering services and personalised customer experiences while supporting local events, organisations and communities.
Hospitality and Retail: Regretless - Low Carb Pleasure
Regretless - Low Carb Pleasure was awarded for creating an innovative and inclusive dining experience that supports people with specialised dietary needs while fostering community connection and wellbeing.
Professional Services: Madison Sloan Lawyers
Madison Sloan Lawyers was awarded for providing trusted legal services while supporting community education, local organisations and initiatives that strengthen community connection and engagement.
Trades: Esjay Landscapes + Pools
Esjay Landscapes + Pools was awarded for delivering award-winning landscape and pool projects that combine exceptional workmanship, innovation and long-term value for local families.
