General News
13 May, 2026
Firms aspire to be winners
A REAL estate firm has been nominated as a finalist in three categories in the Cassowary Coast 2026 local business awards as part of Queensland Small Business Month.
Raine and Horne Innisfail is a finalist in outstanding business achievement, excellence in community engagement and professional services customer excellence, while Mission Beach Dive has reached the finals of outstanding business achievement and excellence in community engagement. The Tinnie Shack is in the finals of outstanding business achievement and trade, retails and services excellence.
Overall, there are 34 finalists with the most popular category being the rising star business award with eight listings.
Mayor Teresa Millwood said Small Business Month was the perfect time to shine the spotlight on the people behind local businesses.
“I want to congratulate all of this year’s finalists. Our businesses are the backbone of our community and these awards are about recognising the hard work, resilience and innovation we see right across the Cassowary Coast,” she said.
Finalists have been named across multiple categories, showcasing the diversity and achievements of the local business community.
Council is encouraging the community to get behind local businesses, support the finalists and attend the awards.
“Small Business Month is all about backing local and this is a great opportunity to come together and celebrate the businesses that keep our region thriving,” Cr Millwood said.
The evening will provide a valuable opportunity for local businesses to connect and network, with Queensland Small Business Commissioner Nicole Kelly attending the awards to support and celebrate the region’s business community.
Brisbane-based broadcaster and professional MC Olympia Kwitowski will host the evening, bringing more than a decade of experience across radio, television and live events.
In addition to celebrating local success, council is supporting businesses through initiatives like the free ‘business ready together program, delivered by Resilient Ready.
The program runs until March 2027 and is designed for busy operators, offering practical five-minute micro-learning modules and simple conversations to help businesses build capability, confidence and connection with other local businesses.
The event will be held at Innisfail Shire Hall on Thursday 15 May, with doors opening at 6pm for a 6.30pm start. Guests are encouraged to embrace the evening’s ‘tropical glam’ dress code.
Tickets are available online only and are priced at $60 per person with full table options available and include a three course meal.
A cash bar will also be available on the night, operated by the Rotary Club.
Community members can support their favourite businesses and find out more about the awards by visiting www.bit.ly/4ezYUbk
Local businesses can learn more about the free Business Ready Together program at www.bit.ly/48OcTqg
Local Business Awards Category Finalists
Outstanding Business Achievement
Raine & Horne Innisfail
The Tinnie Shack
The Shed Muscle and Fitness
El Arish Post Office/Store
Mission Beach Dive
Excellence in Community Engagement
Raine & Horne Innisfail
Tully Tack & Co
Cowley Beach Caravan Park
Silkwood Hotel
Mission Beach Dive
Sundown Family Dental
AdvertisementHotel Euramo
Professional Services Customer Excellence
Tully Gym and Tramp Club
Ross Mangano Solicitors
Raine & Horne Innisfail
Happy Chappy's Mowing & Gardening
Poochies Lounge Grooming Salon
The detailing Queen
House of Valmai
Trade, Retail & Services Excellence
The Tinnie Shack
The Pocket Café
O’Brien Electrical Innisfail
Leading Employer Recognition
Tropical Vets
Define Normal
Rising Star Business Award
Tully Tack & Co
Ironbark FNQ Barbers
Mission Beach Dive
JK Rocket Fuel
Chelsea’s Pony Treats
ERSCON Consulting Engineers
Newton Property Group
Isla Cabana Sizz’n Grill
Environmental Sustainability Leadership
Aus Fish Coral Pty Ltd
Great Barrier Reef Safaris
Read More: Cassowary Coast