Ararat Rural City Council is calling for residents to shine a light on local businesses for the 2021 People’s Choice Award as part of the East Grampians Business Awards.
Following a hiatus in 2020 due to COVID-19, customers will have from 11 October to 31 October to vote for their favourite businesses across Ararat Rural City. The People’s Choice Award winner will receive a multi-media advertising package with Ace Radio, and the top six nominees will be invited to attend the Business Awards Gala.
Ararat Rural City Council Chief Executive Officer, Tim Harrison said it is important to recognise and celebrate our outstanding local businesses.
“Our small businesses reflect the region’s spirit – they are the lifeblood of our economy and communities,” Dr Harrison said.
“Unlike previous People’s Choice Awards, the community may vote for any business within the Ararat municipality and not limited to those who have submitted an entry.
“The changes we have made to voting will make it easier for customers to vote for their favourite local business.”
Becky McDougall from Three Bloom Florist, who won the People’s Choice Award in 2019, is encouraging business owners to encourage their customers to vote for their business.
“With the People’s Choice Awards, it was a bit daunting at first to ask customers to vote for your business but at the same time we had the most supportive customer base that were more than happy to jump online and vote,” said Ms McDougall.
“I feel the community recognised our growth from a small florist into a much larger shop, offering home and giftware.
“It was very surreal to receive the award – it was amazing to receive the award and to be recognised for all we achieved in just over a year of business.
“These awards are amazing to have for our small community – especially with COVID-19 and lockdown over the past 18 months.
“It’s amazing to see so many shops still open down our main street – the community support shown has been one of a kind, you can’t get that country feeling of people coming in to support you elsewhere.”
People can vote for the 2021 People’s Choice Award on Ararat Rural City Council’s website via www.ararat.vic.gov.au/2021-peoples-choice-award.
