Finalists announced for Cassowary Coast Local Business Awards
Published on 08 May 2026
Local businesses across the Cassowary Coast are being recognised for their hard work and success, with finalists announced for the 2026 Local Business Awards as part of Queensland Small Business Month.
Mayor Teresa Millwood said Small Business Month is the perfect time to shine the spotlight on the people behind local businesses.
“I want to congratulate all of this years finalists. Our businesses are the backbone of our community, and these awards are about recognising the hard work, resilience and innovation we see right across the Cassowary Coast,” she said.
Finalists have been named across multiple categories, showcasing the diversity and achievements of the local business community.
Council is encouraging the community to get behind local businesses, support the finalists and attend the awards.
“Small Business Month is all about backing local, and this is a great opportunity to come together and celebrate the businesses that keep our region thriving,” Mayor Millwood said.
The event will be held at Innisfail Shire Hall on Friday15 May 2026, with doors opening at 6.00pm for a 6.30pm start. Guests are encouraged to embrace the evening’s Tropical Glam dress code.
Tickets are available online only and are priced at $60 per person with full table options available and include a three course meal.
A cash bar will also be available on the night, operated by the Rotary Club.
The evening will also provide a valuable opportunity for local businesses to connect and network, with Queensland Small Business Commissioner Nicole Kelly attending the awards to support and celebrate the region’s business community.
Brisbane-based broadcaster and professional MC Olympia Kwitowski will host the evening, bringing more than a decade of experience across radio, television and live events.
In addition to celebrating local success, Council is supporting businesses through initiatives like the free Business Ready Together program, delivered by Resilient Ready.
The program runs until March 2027 and is designed for busy operators, offering practical five-minute micro-learning modules and simple conversations to help businesses build capability, confidence and connection with other local businesses.
“We’re proud to support our local businesses not just through recognition, but by providing practical tools and programs to help them grow and succeed,” Mayor Millwood said.
Residents and business owners are encouraged to support finalists, vote for the People’s Choice Award, and explore the free program this Small Business Month.
Community members can support their favourite businesses and find out more about the awards by visiting yoursay.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/local-business-awards
Local businesses can learn more about the free Business Ready Together program at
https://resilientready.org/project/cassowary-coast-regional-council-business-resilience-program/
Local Business Awards Category Finalists
Outstanding Business Achievement
- Raine & Horne Innisfail
- The Tinnie Shack
- The Shed Muscle and Fitness
- El Arish Post Office/Store
- Mission Beach Dive
Excellence in Community Engagement
- Raine & Horne Innisfail
- Tully Tack & Co
- Cowley Beach Caravan Park
- Silkwood Hotel
- Mission Beach Dive
- Sundown Family Dental
- Hotel Euramo
Professional Services Customer Excellence
- Tully Gym and Tramp Club
- Ross Mangano Solicitors
- Raine & Horne Innisfail
- Happy Chappy's Mowing & Gardening
- Poochies Lounge Grooming Salon
- The detailing Queen
- House of Valmai
Trade, Retail & Services Excellence
- The Tinnie Shack
- The Pocket Café
- O’Brien Electrical Innisfail
Leading Employer Recognition
- Tropical Vets
- Define Normal
Rising Star Business Award
- Tully Tack & Co
- Ironbark FNQ Barbers
- Mission Beach Dive
- JK Rocket Fuel
- Chelsea’s Pony Treats
- ERSCON Consulting Engineers
- Newton Property Group
- Isla Cabana Sizz’n Grill
Environmental Sustainability Leadership
- Aus Fish Coral Pty Ltd
- Great Barrier Reef Safaris