Recently, I had the pleasure of attending the Mount Ommaney Small Business Awards, hosted by hardworking local state MP Ms Jessica Pugh, alongside the Queensland Minister for Employment and Small Business, the Hon. Shannon Fentiman. The pride of the Centenary Suburbs business community was on show for what could only be likened to the Oscars for local business, such was the energy and anticipation in the room. In an incredible show of support from local residents, over 4,000 votes were cast and there were over 150 nominations to recognise the outstanding service and dedication of local small businesses, hosted by the Centenary and Districts Chamber of Commerce.

My congratulations to all the businesses that received awards on the evening: KPR Automotive; Brittney Young from Oz Wagtails; Centenary Natural Therapies Clinic; Rebecca Bennett from Reclaim Health and Rehabilitation; GJ Barber and Meg Burns from Gem Hair and Stuff; Peter Kolb Amcal Pharmacy; Fred Ottoway from Mister Minit Mount Ommaney; Madders Brothers Patisserie; Julie Nguyen from Middle Park Bakery; Jason Sallaway Jewellery; Rosie DeRe from the Little Trike; White Lies Brewing; Sam Baxter from All Things Tasmanian; SewMasters; Knock On Wood Toys; Reclaim Health and Rehabilitation; and the winners of Small Business of the Year, the mighty Just Poppy's and Just Gelato n Shakes.

I would also like to make special mention of the executive of the chamber of commerce in our local Centenary area. They did a fantastic job on the night. And thanks to St Catherine's Football Club for hosting the event, and to all the attendees. Well done. I look forward to next year's event being bigger and better than ever before.