AN ARRAY of successful businesses in the city spanning from therapeutic sea salts to unique function areas set on a picturesque apple farm were celebrated at the 2017 Influential Women in Business Awards on Friday night.
More than 550 people crammed into The Barn on Friday night for the sold-out event, which was the biggest crowd in the history of the prestigious regional awards.
Judges were faced with the difficult task of selecting award winners out of the impressive 142 talented nominees spread across the six categories.
Award categories included business woman of the year, best business, best small business, entrepreneur of the year, employee of the year and community leader.
The business woman of the year award was awarded to Salts of the Earth Mount Gambier owner Cathy Beckman for her initiative and hard work in bringing the franchise to the region.
“I am privileged to receive the award in front of so many successful women and I would encourage anyone with a vision to join – it has been a fantastic night for Mount Gambier,” Ms Beckman said.
Employee of the year was awarded to dedicated Barry Maney Group administration manager Sharon Disher.
Ms Disher – who has devoted 23 years to the Barry Maney Group – said she was honoured to receive the award and privileged to work with a fantastic group of people.
Meanwhile, the entrepreneur of the year accolade went to The Apple Farm founder Kelsie Prowse, who co-owns the popular function destination.
“I am thrilled, excited and proud to receive the award and we are extremely lucky to have this organisation in the region supporting women in business,” Ms Prowse said.
The best small business category was won by all ages psychology and counselling practice Smiles All Round director Lana-Joy Durik for her contribution to improving mental health.
“I want to thank those who nominated me, I am truly honoured, and I would also like to thank my amazing support crew,” Ms Durik said.
In other awards, the best business was awarded to The Distributors manager Sue Morris.
“I am honoured to be acknowledged and the award is not just a testament to our family who own and manage the business, but also to the hard working and dedicated staff,” Ms Morris said.
The community leader award was bestowed on Mount Gambier Winter Wear for Kids in Need pastoral care worker Trudi Shelton, whose initiative has helped families in desperate times of need.
“I began the initiative due to seeing many struggling families and started to donate my own children’s old clothes,” Ms Shelton said.
“I then received outstanding help from the community – without them the extent of the program would not be possible.”
Guest speakers at the event included George the Farmer co-creator Simone Kain and Metro Bakery co-owner Toni Vorenas, who discussed their success stories while also depicting the struggles they faced when taking a chance and venturing into a new business.
Ms Kain said those in regional areas should not place boundaries on their dreams and Ms Vorenas discussed her career transition from teacher to business owner.
Women in Business and Regional Development chairman Di Ind acknowledged the nominees and the success of the event.
“Tonight the nominees are all winners and it is amazing to see our network continue to expand since first establishing,” Ms Ind said.
