2010 Central Otago Awards Finalists Announced

Finalists for the 2010 Central Otago Awards have been announced. These Awards are presented annually to businesses and individuals that exemplify a commitment to making a difference.

Council’s Brand Manager Shirley Howden said “The judging panelists were impressed with the calibre of entry across the range of Award categories.”

The 2010 Central Otago Award Finalists are:

§ Brad Thomas, Kurt Checketts and Tyler Berland, for the Apprentice Award. This Award recognises outstanding training and personal achievement of apprentices working in any industry.

§ Jimmy’s Pies Ltd, Trail Journeys Ltd and Vincent Holdings Ltd for the Business Excellence Award. This Award recognises businesses that demonstrate sustained success, are recognised as leaders by their peers and have built substantial business scale.

§ Central Gourmet Galleria and The Old Doctor’s Residence are this year’s finalist for the Tourism Award. This Award is an opportunity to showcase tourism operators that demonstrate sustained success, innovation and high service standards.

§ There a three categories for the Youth Award that highlight Central Otago’s youth talent including Leadership and Community Service, Culture and Enterprise. The finalists are Breiana Bennetts, Josh Thom, Rosie Whiting, Kenzie Jackson and Annalyse Shaw.

§ Fred Peyton, Gordon Divers and Joan Stevens are recipients of this year’s Community Service Award. This Award recognises individuals who are making a significant contribution to the well-being of the Central Otago community over a significant period of time.

Winners will be announced on Thursday 9 September 2010 at a special Awards Gala function to be held in Roxburgh. This year’s Guest Speaker is Brian Richards, who is this country’s foremost brand strategist and with strong connections to Central Otago.