Business NSW’s Anthony McFarlane says flooding has forced the postponement of the Riverina Murray Business Awards. Photo: Supplied.
With much of the region facing flooding, Business NSW has decided to postpone the 2022 Murray Riverina Regional Business Awards Gala Dinner.
The event was due to be held on Friday at the Whitton Malt House, but following discussions with the Bureau of Meteorology and the SES, the date was shifted.
“It was a decision that we didn’t take lightly, but the safety of our guests is first and foremost,” said Business NSW’s Anthony McFarlane.
“Given the current weather situation and predictions later in the week, several major arterial roads are currently impacted or are likely to be by Friday.”
He said the event was an important celebration of regional success and would go ahead on Thursday 3 November.
This new date will ensure regional winners are able to progress in time to the State Business Awards Gala Dinner on Friday 18 November in Sydney.
“I like to think of it as Christmas for business,” Mr McFarlane said.
“It is a time of celebration where we get to showcase the talent and the capability of the region all on one night.
“Particularly with all the uncertainty floating around at the moment, whether that be the geopolitical situation or the cost of doing business, it’s good for businesses to reflect on their successes and celebrate with their team.”
The fact that the awards were staged online last year is another reason to go ahead with the in-person event.
“COVID took us virtual last year so we are determined if possible to make the new date of 3 November work at the malthouse,” Mr McFarlane said.
The awards recognise finalists across 13 categories including ‘Excellence in Innovation’, ‘Outstanding Startup’ and ‘Employer of Choice’.
Mr McFarlane said regional awards nights were also an important way to connect with other local leaders.
“The cross-fertilisation and collaboration never ceases to amaze me at these sorts of events when you put great businesses and business minds together,” he said.
“We just stand back and let the magic happen because there are always new people to meet and new partnerships that are formed.”
Winners in aligned categories will move on to the NSW State Business Awards later in November.
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