General News
1 June, 2026
Family firm rated best
MISSION Beach Dive is Cassowary Coast’s most outstanding business.
The firm was one of eight companies judged winners at the 2026 Cassowary Coast Local Business Awards.
The evening recognised outstanding local businesses across eight award categories, celebrating hardworking operators helping drive the region forward.
Jade Parsonage from Mission Beach Dive said the recognition was a proud moment for the team and a reflection of the strong support shown across the local business community.
“We were absolutely chuffed to be finalists in four award categories, including the people’s choice award,” she said.
“To take home the outstanding business award feels really special,” Ms Parsonage said.
“It was fantastic to be recognised alongside so many incredible local businesses and to feel the support from council and the wider business community across the region.
“The night itself had a great atmosphere and was a wonderful celebration of local business on the Cassowary Coast.”
The people’s choice award was a close result between all the five finalists. It was awarded to Hair Manor.
Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said the awards were an opportunity to celebrate the businesses that helped shape the region’s identity and strengthen local communities.
“Local businesses are the heart of the Cassowary Coast and these awards are a wonderful opportunity to recognise the passion, resilience and dedication shown by businesses right across our region,” she said.
“From long-standing local family-run businesses to exciting new businesses, the calibre of finalists and winners this year was exceptional.
“These businesses not only contribute to our economy, but they help create vibrant communities, local jobs and a strong sense of place.”
Queensland Small Business Commissioner Nicolle Kelly said the awards were a fantastic opportunity to recognise and celebrate the important role small businesses played in regional communities across Queensland.
“Queensland Small Business Month is about celebrating the incredible contributions of small businesses in our communities and the Cassowary Coast Local Business Awards is a great example of this,” she said.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and events like these shine a well-deserved spotlight on the hardworking individuals and teams who go above and beyond to create jobs, drive innovation, and make our regions thrive.
“It’s inspiring to see the passion and dedication of local business owners here on the Cassowary Coast and I congratulate all the finalists and winners for their outstanding achievements.”
Other winners were:
Rising star award: JK Rocket Fuel
Customer service excellence: House of Valmai
Environmental sustainability award: Aus Fish Coral Pty Ltd
Leading employer: Tropical Vets
Community engagement: Silkwood Hotel
Trade, retail and services excellence: O’Brien’s Electrical Innisfail.
Read More: Cassowary Coast