The 2016 Excellence in Eden Business Awards have been hailed a "huge success" by organisers with record nominations and tickets to Saturday night's gala dinner selling out 10 days in advance.
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A total of 157 guests, including nominees, sponsors and VIPs attended the dinner at the Eden Fishermen's Recreation Club.
In his opening address, Mayor Michael Britten spoke of "major changes" across the shire, including the South East Regional Hospital, Merimbula Airport and the Port of Eden.
"The port is critical for Eden, but also in the development of the whole shire," Cr Britten said.
"Our airport expansion is on track, with about the same time frame as the port.
"The economy of this shire depends on this growth."
Awards organising committee member Melanie Warren said everyone who attended the event had a fantastic night.
“We can't wait to host the next awards in 2018," Ms Warren said.
"A special thank you to MPs Andrew Constance and Peter Hendy, and also Cr Britten for taking time out of their busy schedules.
"Lastly a massive thank you to our sponsors – Eden Magnet, Bendigo Bank, Regional Development Australia, Cat Balou Cruises, Radio 2EC, Rex Airlines, Eden Fishermen's and Recreation Club, Thales, UOW and Georgie’s Fine Jewellery," she said.
AWARD WINNERS
- Customer service individual: Adam Inwood of Ben Boyd Service Station; (runner-up Steph Robin)
- Customer service business: Essentially Eden restaurant; (Sprout)
- Best apprentice or trainee: Dylan Grant of Kings Smash Repairs; (Lachlan Brown)
- Volunteer/community service individual: Jenny Drenkhahn; (Drew Mudaliar)
- Volunteer/community service organisation: ESSCI; (Eden Whale Festival)
- NSW Chamber/Eden Chamber of Commerce small business 20 employees and under: Eden Gas and Gear; (Cat Balou Cruises)
- NSW Chamber/Eden Chamber of Commerce small business 20+ employees: Georgie’s Fine Jewellery; (Acora Reneco).
