General News
25 October, 2025
Simply best in business celebrate accolades
GLITZ, glamour and celebration filled the air as more than 400 guests in black ties and ball gowns gathered at the Cairns Convention Centre last Friday (17 October) for the 2025 Cairns Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards.
The annual gala ball recognises the outstanding achievements of businesses and emerging leaders in the Cairns region, acknowledging them for their hard work, exceptional business acumen and remarkable contributions to the Cairns community
Chamber chief executive officer Patricia O’Neill said the awards reflected the best of the region’s vibrant business community, shining a spotlight on the innovators and leaders driving growth, prosperity and transformation across Far North Queensland.
“The atmosphere was electric as our business community came together to celebrate the strong, resilient and entrepreneurial spirit that defines Cairns,” she said.
“This year we showcased 71 exceptional finalists across 10 award categories.”
Now in its eighth year, the awards continue to grow from strength to strength, with judges noting that the calibre of submissions reached new heights in 2025.
Among the night’s highlights was the presentation of the Legacy Award, which is not open for nomination, but carefully selected by a special judging panel. The award recognises an individual, family or business whose long-term achievements and community contributions have had an enduring impact on the Cairns region.
This year’s Legacy Award was presented to John Richardson of Kenfrost Homes, honouring decades of dedication to giving back to the Cairns community.
The winners:
Emerging leader excellence award – Amelia Faulkner
Business resilience excellence award – Superyacht Group Great Barrier Reef
Community contribution excellence award – Far North Queensland Legacy
Customer service excellence award – Cairns Bank
Customer service excellence award (trade, retail and services) – Eggplant and Poppy – Gifts and Homewares
Indigenous business excellence award – Mandingalbay Authentic Indigenous Tours
Innovation excellence award – Chat2
Marketing and communications excellence award – Cairns Convention Centre
People management excellence award – ADhesive Communication
Sustainability and environmental excellence award – Cairns Adventure Group.
