Anticipation builds for 2024 Sunshine Coast Business Awards

The 130 finalists celebrated their success at a special masterclass and cocktail party at Noosa Springs. (Supplied)

The countdown is on as all eyes turn to the 2024 Sunshine Coast Business Awards Gala, set for Saturday 9 November, where the winners of the prestigious 29th annual awards will be announced.

The 130 finalists celebrated their success on Thursday 10 October at a special masterclass and cocktail party at Noosa Springs, hosted in partnership with awards sponsors.

Sunshine Coast Business Awards Chair Jennifer Swaine acknowledged the excitement in the air as the finalists prepare for the gala.

“This event is always a highlight for the finalists and sponsors, but this year there’s a heightened sense of anticipation as we approach the gala,” Swaine said.

“The upcoming night is one of the biggest events of the year on the Coast, and it will be a moment of recognition for businesses that have demonstrated resilience, innovation, and success.”

This year’s storytelling masterclass, themed around the question, “Is timing everything?”, focused on media, marketing, and how to leverage award wins. The finalists were reminded that while being nominated is a significant achievement, the real spotlight comes on 9 November when winners will be crowned at the awards gala.

The event featured a lively panel discussion with media sponsors who emphasised the importance of timing in storytelling, media engagement, and leveraging business achievements to gain visibility.

Wallis Westbrook, Chair of Judging, expressed gratitude to the judges, who meticulously reviewed more than 239 written applications and 130 face-to-face interviews collectively.

“Our volunteer judges play an instrumental role in the success of these awards, and we couldn’t do this without their dedication,” he said.

Mrs Swaine also paid tribute to the Awards sponsors for their continued support. “Without our sponsors, the Sunshine Coast Business Awards wouldn’t be the success it is today. Their backing allows us to deliver a robust program throughout the year, culminating in our Gala event.”

As the finalists prepare to walk the red carpet, businesses across the region are eagerly awaiting to see who will take home the coveted awards and be recognised as the Sunshine Coast’s business champions for 2024.