The outstanding achievements of local businesses and individuals were celebrated at the Lockhart Shire Business Excellence awards held on 26 November at the Lockhart Ex-Servicemen’s Club.

With 62 nominations across four categories, the evening highlighted the innovation, resilience, and community spirit that define business success throughout the shire.

Mayor Peter Sharp officially welcomed guests and congratulated the finalists, acknowledging the essential role local enterprises play in growing employment, supporting community initiatives, and driving economic prosperity.

“The quality of nominations this year reflects the passion, talent, and determination of our local business community,” mayor Sharp said.

“Our finalists and winners are not only building successful enterprises, but they are also strengthening the social fabric of our region, supporting jobs, creating opportunities, and contributing to a vibrant and thriving Lockhart shire. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and excited for what lies ahead.”

A highlight of the evening was a special presentation in the Young Entrepreneur category. Although no nominations were received, the judges unanimously recognised the outstanding achievements of 17-year-old apprentice Mitchell Matthews from That Butcher Shop, Lockhart, who was a finalist in the Employee of the Year category.

Mitch has demonstrated remarkable skill, professionalism, and enterprising spirit, mastering his trade, managing operations, and mentoring staff with maturity beyond his years. His ambition, dedication, and clear vision for the future made him a deserving recipient of the Young Entrepreneur Award 2025.

AWARD RESULTS

Employee of the Year

Finalists:

• Kristy Stewart – Lockhart Hire and Hardware

• Mitchell Matthews – That Butcher Shop

• Ronald Grant – Lockhart Hire and Hardware

• Stewart McCormack – Lockhart Ex-Servicemen’s Club

• Stuart Hunter – Prominda Homes

Highly Commended:

• Stewart McCormack – Lockhart Ex-Servicemen’s Club

Winner: Stuart Hunter – Prominda Homes

Young Entrepreneur Award

Winner: Mitchell Matthews – That Butcher Shop

Best New Business

Finalists:

• Boutique on Green

• Country Bumpkins

• Hooves of Empowerment

• Lockhart Hardware and Hire

• Owl and Olive Design Studio

Highly Commended:

• Owl and Olive Design Studio

Winner: Hooves of Empowerment

Excellence in Large Business

Finalists:

• Lockhart Ex-Servicemen’s Club

• Respect – Woodhaven Aged Care

Winner: Lockhart Ex-Servicemen’s Club

Excellence in Small Business

Finalists:

• Avalon Farmstay

• Country Bumpkins

• Crystals Restaurant

• Glen-Lea Images

• Hooves of Empowerment

• Lockhart & District Community Bank

• Lockhart Hardware and Hire

• Prominda Homes

• That Butcher Shop

• The Rock Post Office

Highly Commended:

• Glen-Lea Images

• Prominda Homes

• That Butcher Shop

Winner: Avalon Farmstay

Mayor Sharp commended all finalists and nominees, noting the judges’ feedback that Lockhart Shire has a uniquely strong culture of collaboration, local support, and community pride – attributes not seen anywhere else the panel has judged.

The judging panel for the 2025 Awards comprised:

• Nicola James – Australian Government – AusIndustry

• Keiran Spencer – NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

• Sally Manning – Wagga Wagga Business Chamber

Their expertise and insights ensured a fair and rigorous process, highlighting the best of Lockhart shire’s business community.

The evening highlighted not only business growth and success, but the vision, resilience, and innovation driving the Shire’s future - qualities that continue to position Lockhart as a dynamic place to live, work, visit, and invest.

Lockhart Shire Council would like to thank Elecnor Australia for their generous sponsorship and continued support of the community. and extended appreciation to Jo Mazzocchi, who joined the event as guest speaker and shared valuable insights into Elecnor’s work and its strong and ongoing partnership with Lockhart Shire. Judges Nicola James, Keiran Spencer and Sally Manning were thanked for their time, expertise, and commitment to celebrating excellence across the shire.