Horsham’s James Henwood has challenged Wimmera businesses to participate in 2010 Powercor Wimmera Business Awards.

The joint owner of The Oven Door Bakery in Horsham made the challenge at an awards launch in Horsham.

Several years ago, Mr Henwood won an apprenticeship award and at the time said his ambition was to own the business. In 2008, he and his brother Andrew, as owners of The Oven Door, won a category award.

“Preparing for the award submission was easy and it provided us with the opportunity to review our business plan and examine our business from the outside, looking in,” Mr Henwood said.

“From that review, we decided to update our marketing material, and introduce our mascot, the ginger-bread man. This has been a great success.”

Like many regional winners, the acknowledgement and promotional value of the awards has provided further incentive to promote the business. The Oven Door also enjoys success in industry competitions.

“The win was a terrific boost for our staff members who are committed to daily providing quality service and products to our customers,” Mr Henwood said.

The 2010 business awards occur every two years to promote regional business excellence and provide an opportunity to showcase regional business diversity.

People can obtain nomination forms from Wimmera Development Association website www.wda.org.au or from municipal offices.

They can find out more by contacting Jo Bourke on 0419 571711 or at jbourke@wda.org.au.