The Hobsons Bay Business Excellence Awards are set to return in October, with the 2025 finalists now confirmed. The annual event celebrates the achievements of businesses that are driving growth, innovation, and community connection across the region.
From new start-ups to long-standing operators, the awards highlight businesses making an impact in areas such as sustainability, customer service, diversity, and innovation. This year’s finalists range from health services and creative studios to tech firms, retailers, and community-focused organisations.
The Excellence in Customer Experience category, sponsored by Community Bank—Altona and Laverton, features Hairy Hounds Playground, Pelvic Health Melbourne, Renew Hair, Silverback Studios, Think Focus Act Yoga Studio, and Titan Plumbing & Roofing.
In Creating Social Change and Diversity, sponsored by Williamstown Community and Education Centre Inc., finalists include Amarapave, Dramawerkz Theatre, Laverton Community Integrated Services, and RV Legal.
For New/Start-Up Business, sponsored by Brands & Biz, the shortlist features Fuel & Function, Lenny’s Pup Shop, Portside Dental, and Stretch Club.
Home-Based Business finalists, sponsored by Codux, are Catherine Storm Millinery, Design Your Best Work Life, Happypath Digital Marketing, and Mums Matter Psychology.
Excellence in Innovation, sponsored by Rotary Altona, will be contested by AquaSsage, GreenAnt Networks, Fortify Movement & Health, and The Substation.
In Excellence in Sustainability and Circular Economy, Bouquet Melbourne, MOA.studio, Slow Food Melbourne—Spotswood, and The Source Bulk Foods Williamstown are vying for honours.
Hobsons Bay City Council thanked all applicants and recognised the contribution of Optimised Accounting, the event’s major sponsor. “We’re excited to announce the finalists for the 2025 Hobsons Bay Business Excellence Awards, a fantastic line-up of businesses making a real impact through innovation, sustainability, customer service, and community connection,” the council said in a statement.
The winners will be announced at the gala on Thursday 23 October at Williamstown Town Hall, where more than 300 business and community leaders are expected to attend. Tickets will go on sale from Monday 25 August.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
