On the back of their nominations, Eden Motor Group and J Michelin & Son have both come on board as sponsors for the awards, which will culminate in a black tie gala presentation dinner at Jigamy Farm on Saturday, December 6.

Eden Motor Group has received nominations for both the ‘best retail business’ and ‘best trades or professional services business’ categories, and managing director Con Zurcas said the decision to become a sponsor was an easy one.

“I’m absolutely stoked and I feel privileged to have been asked to come on board,” he said.

“Eden’s such an important town to me and I’m looking forward to being a part of its growth as we see significant changes over the next few years.

“In terms of the awards themselves, it’s nice just be nominated, and I hope we will be worthy recipients of an award if we’re lucky enough to win one.”

Mr Zurcas said the company has grown considerably since the re-branding from Fraser Motors last year, recently achieving five-star Toyota dealer status and being ranked as high as 14th in Australia among Ford dealers.

While he started in Eden with a team of 15, he now has around 30 employees on the books.

“What I’m most proud of is that nearly every one of them lives in Eden,” he said.

“We’re training local staff, and that’s important to me. I don’t want to bring people in from interstate or from capital cities because we’ve got very capable people here in Eden.

“We’re continually educating our staff and improving what we do in every part of our business.

“Out of all the people that work here, there isn’t a single person that isn’t capable or able – they’ve all looked to improve and I’m proud of that.”

Earthmovers J Michelin & Son are also pleased to have signed on as a sponsor.

Gold medal winners last time around in the ‘best retail business’ category, they have this year been nominated in ‘best trades or professional services business’.

“We’re delighted to be coming on board and helping to support local business,” Eileen Michelin said.

“It’s also great to hear that we’ve been nominated for an award.

“Customer service is extremely important no matter what business you’re in, and it’s always good to get positive feedback.”

For all the latest business awards news, click here.

To book your place at the black tie gala dinner presentation night, call the Magnet on 6496 1199.

*Please note, businesses who are sponsoring the awards will not be sponsoring a category in which they are nominated.