566493cb321faf851762727101ebe518
Tuesday, 2 September 2025
Menu
Top businesses named
2 min read

Four West Gippsland businesses were named winners at the Gippsland Business Awards gala dinner on Friday night.
More than 350 people attended the event at Federation University where Sale based Tequa Plumbing and Civil took out top honours to be named business of the year.

Leongatha's AW Smith and Sons joined an impressive list of Gippsland businesses to be inducted into the Gippsland Business Awards hall of fame.
Of the 11 West Gippsland finalists, four were named winners. The winners and judges' comments were:
Beauty and personal care services - The Make-up Hub of Gippsland, Warragul - "a dynamic and inclusive business that has grown through innovation, adaptability and a deep understanding of its customers and community. With a strong commitment to accessibility, collaboration and continuous improvement, it stands out as a regional leader in beauty services, empowering clients and staff alike."
Business and professional services - GippsSafe Security, Drouin - "combining strong growth, strategic planning and a deep commitment to community and inclusivity, GippsSAFE Security sets a high standard in its industry. With standout initiatives like profit-sharing, support for anxious hospital patients and a diverse workforce, it exemplifies how purpose-driven leadership and innovation can deliver both commercial success and meaningful social impact."
New business - Uncommon Solar and Battery Storage, Drouin - "a compelling story of resilience and strategic growth. Founded in challenging circumstances, the business is built on a strong foundation of personalised service and a focus on customer satisfaction. With clear goals, thoughtful risk management, environmental responsibility and compliance, it continues to evolve."
Transport and automotive services - Turnbull Motors Nissan and Mitsubishi - "has successfully blended innovation, customer care and community engagement to drive exceptional growth. With initiatives like real-time service bay viewing and a culture program supporting staff wellbeing, it demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to transparency, operational excellence and building a loyal, values-driven team."
Awards chair Graeme Sennett congratulated all winners on their achievements..
"The variety and diversity of businesses across the Gippsland region is remarkable," Mr Sennett said. "Once again, the calibre of the awards' finalists has provided the judges with a huge challenge in selecting winners from such an impressive array of businesses."
Mr Sennett said Tequa Plumbing and Civil's strategic foresight, focus on people and technology, and commitment to workforce development, was a clear indication of its role as a leader in addressing industry challenges head-on.
Ian Whitehead, chief executive of major sponsor Latrobe Health Services, said the winners exemplified "the drive and excellence that define our region."
Other category winners included: accommodation and tourism - Boat Harbour Jetty B&B, Port Albert; food and Agribusiness - Gippsland Wine Company, Loch; healthcare and wellness - Ford Swim Centre, Traralgon; hospitality and food service - Sweet Life Cafe and Cakes, Leongatha; innovation excellence - Outlook Industries Australia, Yinnar; manufacturing and Construction - East Coast Boats, Bairnsdale; microbusiness - Empowered Lactation Consulting, Dalyston; retail - The Shed Shop, Traralgon; trades and technical Services - Tequa Plumbing & Civil, Sale.