There were tears of joy amongst the smiles at the 2025 Scenic Rim Business Excellence Awards, with business operators acknowledged for shaping the future of the region through resilience, dedication and innovation.
Sixty nominees were celebrated as Scenic Rim Regional Council announced the winners at a sold out event held at the Boonah Cultural Centre.
Mayor Tom Sharp said the calibre of nominations for the awards was outstanding.
“These awards showcase the extraordinary depth of talent across the Scenic Rim,” he said.
“From hospitality and tourism to agriculture, retail and education, our businesses are not only delivering exceptional products and services – they are also creating jobs, building community and shaping the future of our region.”
The prestigious Scenic Rim Business of the Year Award was presented to Canungra based retailer My Country Escape, recognised for its outstanding leadership, community impact and contribution to the region’s visitor economy.
Mayor Sharp said the judges were particularly impressed by the business’s clear vision, strong values, and measurable economic and community contribution.
“My Country Escape represents the very best of regional business,” he said.
“It combines commercial success with genuine community spirit and plays an important role in shaping the Scenic Rim visitor experience.”
Accepting the award, Michelle Roper-Dennis thanked the community and spoke of the challenges of running a small business over more than a decade.
“You have to pivot, you have to listen to your customer, you have to look at the economy and you have to juggle plates,” she said.
“I’ve had a beautiful ride and I’m just incredibly, incredibly grateful.”
Nev Jones from Tamborine Mountain Psychology, who won the award for Excellence in Heath and Wellbeing thanked his clients for placing their trust in him.
“As I always say to my clients, the privilege is never lost on me – the privilege to share some of the most vulnerable moments in people’s lives with them and help them go through it,” he said.
Edge Hairdressing owner Samijo Cranney was delighted to receive the award for Excellence in Sustainability and Innovation.
“The award was definitely a reflection of our passion and dedication to our clients and to sustainable practices,” said Samijo.
The salon has been a member of Sustainable Salons for the past seven years, showing Samijo’s deep commitment to environmentally-friendly products, recycling and sustainability.
Samijo has undertaken considerable research and worked hard to give back to the community through sustainable practices, community connection and education.
She thanked her staff and clients for their ongoing support.
“This award is literally for every client who walks in the door to support us,” she said.
Tamborine business Franklin Plumbing and Gas were awarded Excellence in Agriculture, Trade and Construction and owner John Franklin said he recognised many of their clients in the room.
“We work in multiple other areas but we don’t enjoy it as much as the Scenic Rim, of course,” he joked.
“It is unbelievable to see so many businesses here that we actually do work for and we are so proud to work for everyone who is nominated tonight.”
Strengthening business
Mayor Sharp said the Business Excellence Awards play an important role in strengthening business capability and celebrating innovation.
“Tonight’s winners demonstrate the diversity and resilience of our economy,” he said.
“From agritourism experiences and hospitality venues that elevate our destination brand, to education providers building our future workforce, and small businesses creating local employment — these awards highlight how we are delivering on our commitment to sustainable economic growth.
“Council is proud to be supporting local businesses to develop and grow, enhancing the Scenic Rim’s profile as a premiere visitor destination, and nurturing the region’s appeal as a place to live, learn, work, visit and invest.”
“When our businesses thrive, our communities thrive,” he said.
Scenic Rim Business Award winners
Business of the Year
My Country Escape
Excellence in Hospitality Food, Beverage & Dining
Roast Beef & The Frog
Highly commended – Royal Hotel Harrisville
Excellence in Accommodation
Clandulla Cottages and Farmstay
Highly commended – Verandah House Country Estate
Excellence in Tourism
Kalbar Sunflowers
Highly commended – Community Cancer Care
Excellence in Education
Boonah State High School
Highly commended – McAuley College
Excellence in Health and Wellbeing
Tamborine Mountain Psychology
Highly commended – Boonah Health Hub
Excellence in Sustainability and Innovation
Edge Hairdressing
Highly commended – Allenview Turf
Excellence in Retail
My Country Escape
Highly commended – German Cuckoo Clock Nest
Excellence in Agriculture, Trade and Construction
Franklin Plumbing and Gas
Highly commended – Stroud Homes Brisbane South
Most Outstanding New Business
Canungra Beauty
Highly commended – Specsavers Audiology Beaudesert
Trainee/Apprentice of the Year
Rose Heggie – Boonah State High School and Hairshine Fashions
Highly commended – Beau Stephans – Casada Constructions
