We want to do our best to help you be successful with your nomination for the Maranoa Business Awards. 

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Nominations and Applications

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Businesses self-nominate in one Industry Category and may also choose to nominate in multiple Specialty Categories.

• All nominations are submitted via an online application form 

• Applicants are invited (but not required) to submit a supporting video.

 

Business Applications open on the 3rd August and close on the 4th September 2026

 

Question 1: Describe your business and core services (min. 50 words max 200 words)

(This is your business pitch. What, where and how do you do it.)

 

Question 2: Tell us about your business journey over the past 12 months.

This is your opportunity to sell yourself – highlight what makes your business exceptional!

 

Share your key achievements, proudest moments, and the goals you’ve worked towards. Tell us about your leadership approach, marketing strategies, customer service initiatives, innovations, and any awards or recognition you've received. We want to hear how you've made an impact – on your customers, your industry, or your community.

(Minimum 250 words | Maximum 500 words)

 

Speciality Categories

 

Consider entering into these speciality categories:

• Innovation Award

• Emerging Business of the Year (less than 5 years)

• Employer of Choice Award

 

For each of these categories, highlight how your business has excelled in the relevant category.

(Min 250 words Maximum 500 words

 

Tips when writing your application:

• Tell your story — your why, your journey, and your lessons learned.

• Highlight what makes you unique and excellent.

Remember: This is the Business Excellence Awards — not the Business Average Awards. We want to hear your story.

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Video

 

A video entry is optional and adds to your written application.

• It doesn’t need to be professional — a phone video is perfect.

• Introduce yourself, share what you do, and why you’re great at it.

• Involve your team and customers — let them tell the world why you’re the best.

• Keep it genuine, heartfelt, and creative.

• Remember: two minutes goes quickly!

 

Site Interviews - 2 days

 

Judges conduct 45-minute site visits with each nominee week commencing 14th September 2026. You will be offered a time slot. If this time does not work, online interviews may be arranged.

 

The interview is a two way conversation aimed to provide valuable advise and insight. It is an opportunity to have a one on one session with an expert in their field. Judges are sourced from outside the region.

 

The Awards

 

Come celebrate with us on the 10th October 2026, where we will announce the finalists, winners and Business of the Year.

 

Feedback for Applicants

 

Judges are asked to provide a short paragraph of feedback for each business, including general comments or suggestions. This will be shared with applicants after the awards. 

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