Several local businesses have been named as finalists in the prestigious 2024 Sunshine Coast Business Awards. With finalists across a range of categories, the recognition highlights the diversity and strength of the hinterland business community.

The Business Awards, established in 1995, have long been a benchmark for business excellence in the region, celebrating the remarkable achievements of local enterprises.  

In the Building & Construction category, GeoDrill Australia from Chevallum has earned a spot as a finalist, showcasing their expertise in the drilling sector. 

The Creative Industries category sees Absolute Aerials, also from Chevallum, vying for top honours with their innovative aerial dance classes that have captivated clients across the Coast.

The Experiences category features three hinterland gems: Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World in Wootha, Range of Life in Montville, and Yandina Station in Yandina Creek. These businesses are celebrated for their unique offerings that contribute significantly to the region’s tourism industry.

Health & Wellness is another area where the hinterland stands out, with Blackall Terrace Dental and Fit Kat Bootcamp, both based in Nambour, being named finalists.  

Yandina’s The Mattress Company has been recognised in the Manufacturing category, while Uptown Hair in Nambour, Clayton’s Towing Service in Bli Bli, and Sunshine Family Support in Forest Glen are all finalists in the Trades & Services category. 

In the Social Impact category, endED from West Woombye and ECOllaboration from Yandina have been highlighted for their incredible contributions to the community, addressing mental health and environmental sustainability respectively.

Finally, Maleny Dairies, a well-known family-owned business, is a finalist in the Food & Agribusiness category, reflecting its commitment to quality in dairy production.

The finalists will gather at the grand awards gala in November, where the winners will be announced. The event promises to be a celebration of the Sunshine Coast’s thriving business landscape, and the hinterland is certainly ready to shine.

• For more information on the awards, visit www.sunshinecoastbusinessawards.com.au.