It’s time to celebrate the businesses, organisations and individuals helping shape the future of the Capricorn Coast and Rockhampton Region, with nominations now officially open for the 2026 Capricorn Best in Business Awards.
Now entering their fifth year, the Capricorn Best in Business Awards recognise excellence across business, tourism, industry and community, celebrating those who are driving innovation, delivering outstanding customer experiences, supporting local employment and making a positive impact across the region.
This year’s awards introduce two exciting new categories – Best Tourism Business and the Innovation in Manufacturing Award – recognising the continued growth of two of the Capricorn Region’s key economic sectors.
Whether you’re a business owner, employee, apprentice, volunteer or community organisation, the awards provide an opportunity to showcase your achievements, gain valuable recognition and celebrate success alongside the region’s best.
Award Categories
The 2026 Capricorn Best in Business Awards feature 9 judged categories celebrating excellence across business, tourism, manufacturing, sustainability, leadership and community contribution. Whether you’re a start-up, an established business, an outstanding employee or an inspiring leader, there’s an award category for you.
Business Excellence
- Best New Business – Celebrating businesses that have made an outstanding start and demonstrated strong potential for future success.
- Best Small Business – Recognising small businesses delivering excellence through innovation, customer service and business performance.
- Best Medium-Large Business – Honouring established businesses making a significant contribution to the Capricorn Region through growth, leadership and business excellence.
Industry Excellence
- Best Tourism Business – Celebrating tourism businesses delivering exceptional visitor experiences and contributing to the growth of the Capricorn Region’s visitor economy.
- Best Innovation in Manufacturing – Recognising manufacturers embracing innovation through technology, products, processes and continuous improvement.
People and Workforce
- Best Business Manager or Owner – Celebrating outstanding leadership, vision and business success.
- Best Employee (as nominated by Employer) – Recognising employees who consistently demonstrate excellence, initiative and dedication.
- Best Apprentice/Trainee (as nominated by Employer) – Celebrating apprentices and trainees who have shown exceptional commitment, growth and potential.
Community Excellence
- Best Community Enterprise – Recognising organisations making a meaningful contribution to the social, economic or cultural wellbeing of the Capricorn Region.
People’s Choice
- People’s Choice Award – Giving the community the opportunity to vote for their favourite business or organisation from the finalists.
Visit www.capricornbestinbusiness.com.au to learn more about each category, review the entry criteria and submit your nomination. Nominations close on Wednesday 30 September 2026, with winners announced at the Best in Business Awards Gala on Friday 27 November 2026.
