THE Ipswich Region Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Business Excellence Awards was more than a celebration of success – it was a night that captured the spirit, pride and innovation of the local business community.
Chamber CEO Kit Philp said what stood out most was the “overwhelming sense of pride and connection in the room”.
From first-time nominees to long-established leaders, the energy was inspiring and reflected a region thriving with creativity and determination.
“The awards are a powerful showcase of the innovation, dedication, and passion that fuel our regional economy,” Ms Philp said.
“We even added a new category – the Emerging Business Award – to recognise the incredible effort it takes to start a business and give these businesses a helping hand in their early years.”
The diverse range of finalists was another highlight, showing the depth and strength of the Ipswich economy across multiple sectors.
“It’s a sign of a strong, adaptable business community that supports growth and welcomes new ideas and investment into the region. Ipswich truly is the place to be right now,” Ms Philp said.
While the Awards night is a major event, the Chamber’s support for local enterprise continues all year round.
“We provide networking opportunities, advocacy, advice and resources that help businesses grow and succeed,” Ms Philp said.
She said every winner’s story was “heroic”, reflecting the courage and community spirit that define local business.
“I’m particularly proud of the way our businesses give back – sponsoring local schools, charities and sporting clubs,” Ms Philp said.
“They recognise that they have a shared interest in wanting the community to prosper.”
Looking ahead, the Chamber has an exciting 2026 calendar, including the Ipswich Home & Property Expo and the Business, Careers & Jobs Expo.
The best and brightest of the Ipswich business community were celebrated in style on Saturday night at the 2025 Ipswich Region Business Excellence Awards, proudly hosted by the Ipswich Region Chamber of Commerce.
A record-breaking number of attendees gathered for the prestigious gala event, which recognised outstanding achievement across 16 award categories.
The evening featured a three-course meal, high-
energy entertainment from SisterMISTER, and the engaging presence of renowned poet and MC Rupert McCall.
Winners in each category Are:
GWT Earthmoving – Building & Construction Award
The ACS Group Qld Pty Ltd
Media Operandi – Business Support Services Award
F.A.S.T. Training Australia
TAE Aerospace – Community Involvement Award
Vital Projex/VitalHub
The Boulevarde – Customer Service Award
Trent Scott Plumbing & Solar
Alstom – Education & Training Award
Bremer State High School
The ACS Group QLD – Emerging Business Award
Café Providence Ripley
Lockyer Fruit & Veggie Cooperative – Food & Agribusiness Award
Pet Mince Direct
West Moreton Health – Health & Care Business Award
Ipswich Hospice
Bishopp – Property & Real Estate Award
She’s My Broker
JMK Retail – Retail Business Award
Temptations Fashion Boutique
CPC Productions – Tourism Award
Stony Creek Brewing
TAFE Queensland – Young Business Person of the Year Award
Melissa Wright – Zest Mortgage Solutions
River 94.9 – Business Person of the Year Award
Melissa Bulow – Binnacle Training
Ipswich City Council – Small Business of the Year Award
Matt Bull Window Tinting
VE Group – Business of the Year Award
Brothers Leagues Club Ipswich
President’s Award
Carolyn McLean Architect
