Nominations are NOW OPEN for the 2026 Cootamundra Business Awards!

It is time to celebrate the people and businesses that make our community thrive. From dedicated employees to inspiring leaders and outstanding local organisations, this is your opportunity to shine a spotlight on those who go above and beyond.

A nomination is more than just a form, it is a moment of recognition that can mean the world to someone. Let’s come together and celebrate the heart of our community.

The Process overview: 

Nominations for the Cootamundra Business Awards are open to the entire community and local businesses. Individuals and organisations are encouraged to recognise excellence by nominating a deserving business or person. Please note that self-nominations are also welcomed.

Nominations close on 1 May 2026.

All nominees will be notified on 4–5 May 2026 and invited to formally accept their nomination by completing a submission. This submission involves answering a series of questions designed to strengthen their nomination. These questions are developed by Business NSW and are consistent across all NSW Business Awards aligned programs.

Only nominees who complete and submit this stage will progress to the finalist round.

Submissions close on 22 May 2026.

Finalists will be announced on 1 June 2026, with judging to take place in the following week.

An independent judging panel will be convened and coordinated by Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council staff. The panel will include, at a minimum:

  • At least one CGRC Councillor

  • One retired local Cootamundra business operator

  • One independent external (out of town) professional

Judges will remain anonymous to ensure a fair and unbiased process. All submissions will be assessed using the NSW Business Awards judging portal, with responses evaluated against a weighted scoring system.

Winners will be announced at the Gala Awards Night on Friday, 19 June 2026 at the Cootamundra Ex-Services Club.

Tickets for the event will go on sale from 1 June 2026.

Winners of the NSWBA Aligned categories have to option to proceed to the Riverina-Murray Regional Awards. 

The Categories: 

Please take a moment to read the category description to ensure you are nominating correctly. 

⭐ Outstanding Employee
Recognises an employee who shows dedication, professionalism and a strong commitment to their workplace and the community.

⭐ Outstanding Young Business Leader - NSW BA Aligned
Celebrates an inspiring leader aged 35 or under who demonstrates innovation, leadership and a positive impact on their organisation and community.

⭐ Outstanding Business Leader   - NSW BA Aligned
Recognises an experienced leader who inspires others, drives business success and contributes to their industry and community through strong leadership.

⭐ Outstanding Community Organisation -NSW BA Aligned
Honours a not-for-profit or community group making a meaningful difference to the social, cultural or environmental wellbeing of the community.

⭐ Outstanding New Business - NSW BA Aligned
Recognises a start-up that has shown strong growth, innovation and potential for long-term success within its first two years.

⭐ Excellence in Business - NSW BA Aligned
Celebrates a business that demonstrates overall excellence through strong performance, growth, innovation and contribution to the local economy.

⭐ Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion - NSW BA Aligned
Recognises a business that actively creates an inclusive environment, supporting people from diverse backgrounds and ensuring accessibility for employees and customers.

⭐ Outstanding Customer Service – Individual
Acknowledges an individual who consistently delivers exceptional customer service and creates positive experiences.

⭐ Outstanding Customer Service – Organisation/Business
Recognises a business that places customer service at the centre of its operations and consistently delivers outstanding customer experiences.