Helix Legal
Building & Construction Award
Based in Ipswich, Carolyn McLean Architect is an architectural and interior design studio delivering personalised, high-quality design solutions informed by more than 33 years of local and international experience. From residential, commercial, community, healthcare and aviation projects to placemaking initiatives such as the Bell Street mural collaboration, the studio continues to demonstrate design excellence, innovation and a strong commitment to positive community impact.
With almost two decades of experience, Garnet Building Design is a leading Ipswich-based residential building design practice known for high-quality, compliant and client-focused design solutions. Led by licensed building designer Sarah Yarham, the growing team specialises in everything from small additions to new homes and secondary dwellings, while also supporting the next generation through mentoring, training and work-experience opportunities.
Family-owned and based in Ripley, Paramount Services QLD delivers high-quality plumbing and gas fitting services across Ipswich, Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Founded in 2013 by Jesse Hicks, the business has grown from a sole operation into a trusted local provider recognised for responsive service, reliable workmanship and tailored solutions across hot water systems, drainage, renovations, general plumbing and emergency repairs.
Media Operandi
Professional Services Award
From humble beginnings as a sole-operator business in 2015 to a team of 15 professionals delivering training across South East Queensland, F.A.S.T. Training Australia has made an incredible impact. With more than 55,000 students trained, 450-plus client organisations supported and over 640 five-star Google reviews, the Ipswich-based organisation continues to set a high standard in practical, people-focused learning.
Offering more than 40 courses across first aid, CPR, mental health, workplace wellbeing and youth programs, F.A.S.T. Training Australia is helping build safer, stronger and more confident communities.
Based in Springfield Lakes, Malu is a 100% Indigenous and veteran-owned management consulting firm delivering commercial, financial, governance and strategic advisory services across Australia. Established in 2021 and led by Matthew Jones, the firm brings deep expertise, integrity and accountability to its work with Indigenous organisations, government agencies and private sector businesses.
Through its appointment to Queensland Government and Local Buy procurement panels, Malu continues to strengthen its reputation while delivering meaningful outcomes and creating opportunities for Indigenous communities and organisations.
One of Ipswich’s longest-established law firms, Walker Pender Lawyers has been providing trusted legal services to the community for more than 150 years. Founded in 1874 and formed through the merger of Walker & Walker and Pender & Pender in 1988, the firm has built a proud legacy of specialist legal knowledge, personalised service and strong community connection.
With expertise across wills and estates, conveyancing, commercial, family and criminal law, and a client base spanning Ipswich and beyond, Walker Pender Lawyers continues to support individuals, families and businesses with professionalism and care.
TAE Aerospace
Community Involvement Award
More than a shopping centre, Booval Fair has been at the heart of Ipswich since 1969, serving generations of local families as a trusted community hub. Through partnerships with community groups, charities, local businesses and government organisations, the Centre delivers events and initiatives that bring people together, support local causes and celebrate Ipswich pride.
With more than 2.5 million visitors each year, Booval Fair continues to balance innovation with tradition while staying deeply connected to the community it serves.
Founded in Ipswich in 2023, Pretty Little Supports helps families navigate the NDIS with confidence, clarity and care. The team provides disability advocacy, Support Coordination and Psychosocial Recovery Coaching to participants across Australia, while remaining intentionally small to deliver personalised and responsive support.
Their self-funded free advocacy service has already assisted 115 families, reflecting a genuine commitment to supporting people whether or not they become clients. With strong growth and most referrals coming through community relationships, Pretty Little Supports is making a meaningful impact through trusted, people-focused support.
Based in Brookwater and supporting clients across Australia, She’s My Broker is a boutique finance brokerage known for personalised service and a strong commitment to community. Since launching in 2020, the business has supported charities, fundraising initiatives and local events through sponsorships, volunteering and donations.
From sponsoring the Mater Chicks in Pink Fun Run and the Kalbar Sunflower Festival to contributing to animal welfare fundraisers and Christmas giving initiatives for local families, She’s My Broker continues to show how business can be a force for positive community impact.
The Boulevarde
Customer Service Award
Serving Ipswich since 2013, All About Dentures combines personalised care with advanced digital technology to deliver high-quality, affordable dental solutions. From its purpose-built South Street clinic, the team provides denture design, 3D printing, same-day emergency denture production, rapid repairs and mobile services to hospitals, aged care facilities and retirement communities.
Led by principal prosthetist Charl Fourie, this Ipswich-based clinic is helping improve access to essential oral healthcare across the region — a fantastic example of customer service in action.
A much-loved independent garden centre in Brassall, Trevallan has been part of the Ipswich community since 1998. More than a retail destination, it offers horticultural expertise, workshops, events, local makers, plants, homewares, gifts and lifestyle experiences in one welcoming location.
With a strong commitment to community connection — including the creation of the Ipswich Plant & Lifestyle Fair — Trevallan continues to showcase what it means to be proudly independent, values-driven and deeply connected to Ipswich.
Founded in 2019 by Melissa Wright, Zest Mortgage Solutions was created to provide a supportive, transparent and client-focused finance experience. The business has grown from a small local brokerage to a team of 13 across two offices, helping hundreds of families with residential, investment, commercial and refinancing solutions.
With more than 400 five-star Google reviews and a strong commitment to financial literacy, sporting organisations and community programs, Zest continues to make a meaningful impact across the region.
Alstom
Education & Training Award
Since 1989, ETC has empowered people through employment, education and training, delivering meaningful outcomes for individuals, businesses and communities. With 70 local staff supporting more than 3,500 customers across the Wivenhoe region, ETC’s customer-led training model and strong employer partnerships are helping build skilled, work-ready communities.
Educating young people since 1892, this respected Ipswich institution continues to deliver exceptional learning experiences across its Early Education Centre, Junior School, Middle and Senior School, and boarding program. With more than 130 years of community connection, the school is fostering belonging, supporting growth and developing confident future leaders.
Since opening in 2020, The Industry School – Ipswich has grown rapidly while offering a hands-on senior schooling model that connects classroom learning with real industry experience. Through its five-week education and industry rotation, students build practical skills, complete their Queensland Certificate of Education and create strong pathways into apprenticeships, traineeships and employment.
West Moreton Health
Health & Care Business Award
Founded in Ipswich in 2021 by Deejay Egan, DCC Industry Group has grown from a small Aboriginal-owned operation into a leading health and human services organisation supporting children, young people, families and communities across Queensland. With more than 600 staff, 50-plus locations and support for more than 800 people each year, DCC Group is delivering coordinated, community-centred care and life-changing outcomes.
Located within the Q Kampus health precinct, HelloDR Blackstone is bringing modern, hospital-adjacent healthcare closer to the Ipswich community. Open seven days a week, the health hub offers medical, diagnostic and allied health services through a multidisciplinary team, helping improve access to care, support community wellbeing and reduce pressure on local hospital services.
Serving the Rosewood community since 1979, Rosewood General Practice has grown from a single-doctor practice into a trusted multidisciplinary healthcare hub. With eight medical practitioners, nurses, administrative staff and visiting specialists, the practice provides quality local care across services including infusion clinics, skin cancer medicine, pathology collection and specialist outreach, while also supporting the next generation of healthcare professionals through training.
Bishopp
Property & Real Estate Award
Established by experienced real estate professionals Megan Acutt and Georgia Greet, this independent boutique agency is bringing a personal, community-focused approach to real estate across Ipswich, the Somerset Region and surrounding lifestyle property markets.
With decades of combined industry experience, a commitment to genuine relationships and exceptional customer service, Acutt & Greet has rebuilt market share, expanded its team and acquired a second office since launching.
Based in Rosewood and established in 2023 by Amie Tarrant, NGU Real Estate Lifestyle has grown from a team of two to 12, now operating two offices in Rosewood with a satellite presence in Harrisville.
Built on the philosophy of helping people find a place to call home, the agency is known for transparency, integrity, personalised service and strong local connections. With more than three decades of combined team experience, many team members have deep roots in the Ipswich region.
Established in 2021, Precision Property Buyers Agency provides dedicated representation for property buyers across Ipswich, the Lockyer Valley, Toowoomba and surrounding regions, with a strong focus on acreage and lifestyle properties.
Supporting first home buyers, owner-occupiers and investors, the agency advocates exclusively for buyers and is built on honesty, integrity and exceptional customer service. From a sole operator business, it has grown into a trusted team recognised for professionalism, industry leadership and helping clients make confident property decisions.
JMK Retail
Retail Business Award
Family-owned and proudly based in West Ipswich, 21Captains has come a long way since launching in 2020, when the business began selling face-to-face at local markets.
Today, the business designs, manufactures and sells the Air Refiner — an Australian Made and Owned moisture and odour management product designed specifically for Australian conditions — to customers right across the country through online, wholesale and direct retail channels.
With seven local staff across production, dispatch and creative roles, 21Captains achieved more than $1 million in net sales in 2025–26, representing an impressive 82.5% growth.
For 17 years, this locally owned and operated bakery has been serving the Ipswich community — and under its current owners, the business has achieved an incredible 240% growth while remaining committed to the people and organisations that make Ipswich such a great place to live.
With a team of 16 staff, Bakers Delight Ipswich has provided employment opportunities to more than 200 local residents throughout its history.
But its impact extends well beyond the bakery counter. In 2025 alone, the business donated more than 8,000 loaves of bread to families across four local schools.
Founded in 2019, Jane’s Handcrafts and Gifts was built around a simple but meaningful idea — creating thoughtful, personalised gifts that help people celebrate special moments and strengthen personal and professional connections.
From beautifully crafted gifts to personalised touches, the business has built a loyal customer base and a strong reputation through exceptional customer service, attention to detail and a genuine passion for what it does.
Jane’s Handcrafts and Gifts also champions the importance of supporting other local small businesses, helping create stronger connections within the broader business community.
CPC Production Services
Tourism & Hospitality Award
Established in 2001 by Brenda Ryan and Ken Mundt, the company was formed to create opportunities for local performers while delivering high-quality musical theatre experiences for audiences in the region.
From early family favourites such as Annie, The Wizard of Oz, Oliver! and The Sound of Music, IMTC has grown into one of Australia’s leading community theatre companies.
Through performances at the Ipswich Civic Centre and Old Ipswich Courthouse, IMTC continues to entertain and inspire audiences, nurture local talent and enrich Ipswich’s cultural landscape.
Located in one of Ipswich’s most iconic heritage buildings, Stony Creek Brewing has quickly become a vibrant gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Established in its current form in 2024 following the acquisition of the former Pumpyard Brewery, the business combines independently brewed beer, quality dining, live music, weddings, private functions and community events to create a unique visitor experience in the heart of Ipswich.
And the experience doesn’t stop at the brewery! Through its mobile beer truck, Homer, Stony Creek Brewing also takes part in festivals and events across South East Queensland, helping promote both the brewery and the Ipswich region as a tourism destination.
Established in 2019, The Llama Farm is a boutique agritourism destination offering memorable experiences that connect visitors with nature, education and agriculture.
Home to Queensland’s largest llama stud, the family-owned and operated business has become one of Ipswich’s most distinctive visitor attractions.
Through guided llama walks, farm tours and interactive animal encounters, The Llama Farm welcomes thousands of visitors each year while maintaining the highly personalised and authentic experience that has earned it such a strong reputation.
With the owners managing every aspect of the business — from animal care to customer service — their dedication and commitment to quality is at the heart of everything they do.
TAFE Queensland
Young Business Person of the Year Award
Amie is the franchise owner of NGU Real Estate Lifestyle, and her journey is a great example of what can be achieved through dedication, leadership and a clear vision.
Starting her career in administration and personal assistant roles, Amie worked her way through the real estate industry, gaining her real estate, full licence and corporation licence qualifications along the way.
In 2023, she launched the Rosewood-based business with just one team member and its first office. Since then, NGU Real Estate Lifestyle has experienced significant growth, expanding to two offices and a team of 12 staff.
Amie’s hands-on leadership, strong work ethic and commitment to her community have been central to that success.
As a Partner at Ipswich-based accounting and advisory firm Sammut Bulow, Andrew plays a key role in helping individuals, families and businesses make better commercial decisions.
One of five partners, Andrew manages the firm’s largest client portfolio while leading a team of ten professionals. His work goes well beyond compliance, providing clients with strategic advice across business growth, cash flow management, forecasting, reporting and commercial decision-making.
Andrew’s path to partnership is just as impressive. After overcoming academic challenges and taking an unconventional route through university, he achieved partnership within ten years of starting his career.
His story is a powerful reminder that success isn’t always about taking the traditional path — it’s about resilience, persistence, hard work and the determination to keep moving forward.
At just 34 years of age, Deejay has built one of Queensland’s fastest-growing Aboriginal-owned human services organisations.
A proud Biripi man, Deejay’s own experiences navigating foster care and the justice, homelessness and disability systems inspired him to create the support he wished had existed in his own childhood.
Founded in Ipswich in 2021, DCC has grown from a small local operation into an organisation employing more than 600 people and supporting over 800 children, young people and families every year.
Through residential care, disability supports, allied health, youth justice and community services, Deejay’s leadership is creating opportunities, strengthening communities and making a meaningful difference to lives across Queensland.
His journey demonstrates the power of turning lived experience into purpose — and purpose into lasting impact.
River 94.9
Business Person of the Year Award
A respected business leader, chef and baker, Alison brings more than 25 years of experience within the Bakers Delight network, including 17 years as a franchisee.
After relocating from Canberra to Ipswich 18 years ago, Alison established deep roots in the local community and has become a passionate advocate for business growth and leadership development.
Before becoming a business owner, Alison spent a decade as an Operations Manager, developing extensive experience in team leadership and business operations.
Today, she leads Bakers Delight Ipswich, owns two additional food businesses and works as a business coach, with a strong focus on empowering people, developing leaders and creating a positive impact in the community.
After more than 16 years of service in the Australian Defence Force, Jason founded Candid Property, a specialist buyer’s agency based in Ipswich.
Established in 2025, the business was created to help buyers — particularly current and former ADF members — navigate the property market with confidence.
By intentionally limiting client numbers, Jason is able to provide highly personalised support throughout every stage of the property purchasing process.
Beyond his business, Jason is also the founder of the Ipswich Buyers Agents Group and holds leadership roles within the local sporting community.
Guided by the values of courage, initiative, respect and teamwork, Jason is committed to supporting his clients while making a positive contribution to the broader Ipswich community.
Sarah is the founder and driving force behind F.A.S.T. Training Australia, an Ipswich-based training organisation that has grown from a single CPR class opportunity into a leading provider of first aid, mental health and wellbeing training.
Established in 2015, the business has now trained more than 55,000 students across more than 450 organisations and earned over 640 five-star Google reviews.
A passionate educator with a background in health, wellbeing and business, Sarah has built a values-driven organisation focused on empowering people with practical skills and confidence.
As a leader, Sarah is passionate about mentoring and developing her team while driving the strategic growth of the organisation and fostering a culture where people feel supported, valued and heard.
Ipswich City Council
Small Business of the Year Award
What began in 2010 with a small team operating from a shed in Brassall has grown into a thriving local business employing nine staff and servicing customers across the region.
Founded by Director Darren Rosolak, the family-owned business was built on a vision to help local households reduce their energy costs through solar power solutions.
Over the years, Ipswich Solar and Electrical has developed a strong reputation for quality service, trusted advice and genuine community relationships.
In 2025, the business expanded its services and rebranded from Ipswich Solar Power to Ipswich Solar and Electrical following the addition of qualified electricians to the team.
Today, the business continues to grow while remaining proudly local, family-owned and focused on delivering exceptional service.
Founded by Stephanie Thomas, this family-owned mortgage brokerage was established with a commitment to delivering a lending experience built on trust, transparency, education and genuine customer care.
With offices in Ipswich, Auchenflower and the Sunshine Coast, the experienced team provides a comprehensive range of finance solutions, including home loans, commercial lending, asset finance and SMSF lending.
While supporting clients nationally, Loan Market Ignite remains committed to building strong local relationships and supporting the communities it serves.
The business has achieved outstanding recognition as a member of Loan Market’s Chairman’s Club and as the top Ray White-aligned business for settlements across Australia and New Zealand.
Proudly Ipswich-based, Matt Bull Window Tinting has been delivering premium window tinting, security tinting and ceramic coating solutions since 1993.
Serving both the automotive and building sectors, the business has built a strong reputation for quality workmanship, exceptional customer service and a commitment to continuous improvement.
The acquisition of the 1300 Get Tint brand in 2019 accelerated the business’s expansion across Greater Brisbane, strengthening its market presence and brand recognition.
Since then, the business has achieved an impressive 335% growth, relocated to purpose-built premises and expanded its team.
Through ongoing investment in technology, people and processes, Matt Bull Window Tinting continues to set high standards for service excellence and innovation.
VE Group
Business of the Year Award
With more than 50 years of history and a membership base exceeding 40,000 people, Brothers Leagues Club Ipswich is one of the region’s leading hospitality, entertainment and community destinations.
As part of the Brothers Rugby League organisation, the club offers a diverse range of dining, entertainment, gaming and event experiences, along with a state-of-the-art kids’ room.
But its impact extends far beyond hospitality. Through strong support of grassroots sport, community initiatives and local partnerships, Brothers Leagues Club Ipswich continues to make a significant contribution to the Ipswich region.
Through ongoing investment in its facilities, services and people, the club continues to strengthen community connections and create lasting value for its members, guests and the wider community.
Proudly serving the Ipswich region since 1979, Club Services Ipswich is a not-for-profit hospitality and community organisation with a long-standing commitment to bringing people together.
Originally established as the Ipswich RSL Services Club, the organisation has evolved over the years while remaining focused on providing a welcoming place for members, guests and the wider community.
Employing more than 57 staff, Club Services Ipswich delivers dining, entertainment, gaming and event experiences while continuing to invest in its facilities, people and customer experience.
Community support also remains central to its mission, with sponsorships, donations, fundraising initiatives and partnerships providing ongoing benefits to local organisations.
Founded in Ipswich in 2020, MIACOR IT has grown into a technology services provider delivering managed IT services, consulting, cybersecurity and project solutions to organisations across Australia.
With a team of approximately 23 staff located across Queensland, New South Wales and Western Australia, MIACOR IT combines strong local engagement with national capability.
Supporting hundreds of clients across industries including finance, healthcare, construction, education and government, the team delivers enterprise-grade outcomes through structured governance and service excellence.
Guided by the philosophy of being “small enough to care, big enough to deliver,” MIACOR IT helps organisations improve efficiency, strengthen cybersecurity and achieve strategic business outcomes.
The ACS Group QLD
Emerging Business Award
Founded by experienced real estate professionals Megan Acutt and Georgia Greet, this independent boutique agency is bringing a personal, community-focused approach to real estate across Ipswich, the Somerset Region and surrounding lifestyle property markets. Since launching, Acutt & Greet has rebuilt market share, grown its team and opened a second office while staying committed to genuine relationships, exceptional service and the communities it serves.
Based in Bundamba and led by founder and director Mikaela Gladden, ALIGND Pilates has created an inclusive, supportive studio where people of all ages, abilities and fitness levels can build strength, mobility, confidence and overall wellbeing. Through personalised service, authentic connection and a strong community focus, ALIGND continues to grow with purpose and make a meaningful impact on its members’ lives.
This Australian veteran-owned technology company is helping organisations adopt artificial intelligence with confidence. Established to deliver sovereign, secure and responsible AI solutions for highly regulated industries, Keytech Intelligence’s flagship platform, Valour Keystone, combines advanced capability with governance, auditability, human oversight and identity assurance. With a multidisciplinary team and a strong focus on trust, security and accountability, Keytech Intelligence is setting a benchmark for responsible AI adoption.
UniSQ School of Business, Law, Humanities, and Pathways
Sustainability Award
Based in West Ipswich, 21Captains is a family-owned manufacturing and retail business that designs, manufactures and sells the Australian Made and Owned Air Refiner — a moisture and odour management product built for Australian conditions.
Founded in 2020, what began with face-to-face sales at local markets has grown into a thriving business serving customers across Australia through online, wholesale and direct retail channels.
Employing seven local staff and achieving more than $1 million in net sales in 2025–26, representing 82.5% growth, 21Captains continues to demonstrate how a locally grown business can build a strong national reputation through authenticity, quality and customer trust.
Founded on decades of hands-on experience in the fast-growing aerospace and manufacturing sectors, Flexi Industrial Supplies delivers a powerful service-and-supply solution for industry.
With more than 50 years of combined expertise and access to over one million products, Flexi helps businesses streamline their operations through a single-source procurement model.
From product range rationalisation and vendor consolidation to improved inventory control and reduced total cost of ownership, the team combines strong supply chain partnerships, lean management knowledge and exceptional customer service to help clients operate more efficiently.
Founded in 2019 by Jason and Maree Hannay, Imbibis Craft Distillery has grown from a 150m² facility in Marburg to a 250m² operation in Bundamba featuring two commercial stills.
The independent artisan distillery produces premium small-batch spirits inspired by local ingredients, creativity and regional storytelling. Its diverse range includes gin, vodka, rum, whisky, brandy, agave spirits and seasonal releases.
Beyond spirit production, Imbibis has developed a strong regional presence through cellar door experiences, online retail, wholesale supply, tourism partnerships and events across Southeast Queensland.
Environmental considerations are integrated across sourcing, energy and water use during distillation, packaging, freight logisitics, and waste management.
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- Building & Construction
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- Community Involvement
- Customer Service
- Education & Training Award
- Health & Care Business
- Property & Real Estate
- Retail Business
- Tourism & Hospitality Award
- Young Business Person of the Year
- Business Person of the Year
- Small Business of the Year
- Business of the Year
- Emerging Business Award
- Sustainability Award
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