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Frequently Asked Questions

Nominations and voting

When do nominations open?

Nominations and voting open on 1 July 2026, followed by an official Awards Launch event on 4 August 2026 hosted by the Blackwood Chamber.

What is the Launch event?

The Launch event celebrates the inaugural Blackwood Chamber Business Excellence Awards 2026 and the commencement of nominations and voting for businesses. The event will include: an overview of the Awards categories and stages; networking with local businesses and Chamber members; and media and promotional activities.

When do nominations and voting close?

Voting closes on 3 September 2026.

Is this a nomination or voting process?

The awards operate under a single-stage public voting model. Businesses are nominated and voted for simultaneously.

What is the voting process?

Participants must visit https://www.blackwoodcci.org/awards during the competition period and fully complete the digital voting e-form, including providing their name, email, plus other non-optional details noted on the digital form/entry. The digital voting form is also accessible by scanning the QR code on the official poster.

Is there a limit on voting entries?

Each voting participant may only fill out the voting form once, per email address, per category.

Who can be nominated?

A business can only be nominated if it is located within the Shire of Bridgetown–Greenbushes. (See the Awards section of the BCCI website for a map of the Shire of Bridgetown–Greenbushes.) A business must also be actively trading at the time of nomination and be compliant with all relevant laws and regulations. Not-for-profit organisations only, can be nominated for the Community Impact award category. The organisation must be located in the Shire of Bridgetown–Greenbushes.

Can a business be nominated in more than one category?

Yes. A business can be entered in multiple categories.

Is there a cost to enter?

No. Entry is free.

Can I nominate my own business?

Yes. Business owners, staff and customers are all encouraged to participate.

Do I need to give a reason for nomination?

No. This is optional.

Finalists and winners

When are finalists announced?

Finalists will be announced on 24 September 2026.

How are finalists determined?

Based on total votes received in each category.

How are category winners determined?

The business with the highest number of valid votes in each category wins. In the event of a draw (tied votes) in a category, both businesses will be declared the category winner and presented with an award each.

Are there judges?

No. Category award winners are determined by the highest number of valid votes in each category. The Business of the Year award winner however will be determined by the Chamber from the eight category winners. An interview may be required.

Gala Awards event

When is the Gala Awards event?

The Gala Awards evening will be held on 17 October 2026 at the Bridgetown Town Hall. Tickets are required to attend the event.

Do finalists need to attend?

Attendance is encouraged. A representative may attend if needed. Two free tickets will be given to all category finalists.

Awards and recognition

What awards are given?

Category award finalists will receive a certificate. Category award winners will receive a trophy and a certificate. The Business of the Year award winner will receive a trophy and a certificate. Winners of awards in the Blackwood Chamber Business Excellence Awards will be eligible to participate in the WA Regional Business Excellence Awards conducted by RCCIWA.

Are there prizes for voters?

Yes. Voters will be entered into a prize draw. Two winners will be selected at random. Prizes for winners include local vouchers or equivalent local produce / products.

General

How can businesses increase their chances of winning?

By using a range of strategies to encourage their customers and members of the public to vote for their business from 1 July 2026 via the QR code on the official poster or the BCCI website.

Will my details be shared?

No. You can opt in to communications.

Who do I contact for more information?

The Blackwood Chamber of Commerce and Industry at admin@blackwoodcci.org