There will be two Experience Creator awards – with separate awards for not-for-profit and commercial experience creators – that deliver ‘worth the drive’ moments across retail, tourism, health and wellness, workshops, events and interactive customer service.
The Bold Move Award will celebrate risk-takers who have expanded, rebranded, relocated, launched new products, or made major investments, while the Made Here Award will shine a light on things created, grown, designed or produced locally, from manufacturing and food production to artisans, creative industries and makers.
An Outstanding Customer Service Award will continue to recognise retail, hospitality, health, professional services and tourism businesses whose commitment to their customers is obvious from the moment people walk through the door or pick up the phone.
Council chief executive Tim Harrison said the refreshed categories had been shaped around the strengths and aspirations of the local economy.
“Our local businesses are the backbone of our regional economy, and these awards give us a chance to pause, reflect, and acknowledge just how much they contribute to jobs, opportunity, and community life,” he said.
“We know businesses across Ararat Rural City are investing in new technology, backing bold ideas and creating unique experiences that draw people here from right across the state, so it is important our awards move with the times and recognise that effort.
“The updated categories have come from listening to our business community and looking at what is happening on the ground in Ararat, Willaura, Lake Bolac, Pomonal and our smaller townships, and I am really looking forward to seeing the stories that come through in this year’s nominations.”
Businesses from across Ararat Rural City will be invited to nominate in multiple categories, with full details, entry criteria, and key dates to be announced on council’s website and social media channels in the coming weeks.
Sponsorships open
Sponsorship opportunities are open for the business awards, with Ararat council inviting both local operators and larger companies that do business in the municipality to support businesses driving innovation and excellence across the region.
Mayor Bob Sanders said the council saw the awards as an important barometer of economic confidence in the region, showcasing the depth and diversity of Ararat businesses.
Award sponsors will receive benefits including an opportunity to host a table at the gala awards event, allowing them to bring staff, clients or partners together.
Sponsorship also provides a chance to directly support an up‑and‑coming business while expanding professional networks across the local business community.
Cr Sanders said the awards were a practical way for businesses to show their support for the local economy.
“When businesses back each other, our whole community benefits,” he said.
“These awards are about recognising the people who open their doors early, stay back late, and keep investing in Ararat’s future.
“By coming on board as a sponsor, you are not just putting your logo on a banner. You are encouraging the next generation of business leaders and helping to build confidence right across our region.”
Cr Sanders encouraged any business trading in Ararat Rural City to consider taking up a sponsorship.
He said sponsorship packages for the 2026 East Grampians Business Awards started at an accessible entry level, ensuring businesses of different sizes could get involved.
Interested businesses can email Phillippa Cairns at pcairns@ararat.vic.gov.au for a full list of sponsorship options and to secure a place at the gala event.
The entire June 10, 2026 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!
