Glen Innes Severn businesses were among those celebrated at the 2025 New England North West (NENW) Business Awards, held at the Armidale Ex Services Club on Friday 19 September.
Local business Ben’s Falls Retreat, the 2024 regional winner, received Highly Commended in the Outstanding Visitor Experience category this year, highlighting the strength of the region’s tourism and hospitality sector.
Mayor Margot Davis, who attended the awards evening, congratulated the owners on their continued success.
“This recognition is a fantastic achievement for Ben’s Falls Retreat and a testament to the passion and hard work of our local business community. Glen Innes Severn is home to many innovative and dedicated operators, and it is wonderful to see them celebrated at a regional level,” Cr Davis said.
Glen Innes Severn was also proudly represented by a strong field of finalists across multiple categories:
- Old Farm Pastoral – Excellence in Sustainability
- Halie Elliott, Innerbella – Outstanding Business Leader (20 Employees and Under)
- Glen Innes Pre School – Outstanding Community Organisation
- Zachary Willis, Glen Innes Golf Club – Outstanding Employee
- Highlands Earthworks and Fabrication – Outstanding New Business
- Matthew Velcich, Country Wide Property – Outstanding Young Business Leader
- Ben’s Falls Retreat – Outstanding Visitor Experience
Mayor Davis said these nominations reflect the depth of talent, innovation, and commitment across the local business sector.
“Our local businesses are the backbone of Glen Innes Severn. They create jobs, support families, and drive economic development and tourism. It’s wonderful to see them recognised on a regional stage, and we are proud of their achievements,” she said.
“Council is working alongside our business community to build on this strength – from progressing the industrial estate to attract new industries, to reviewing our Economic Development Strategy and developing an investment prospectus in this year’s Operational Plan. These initiatives aim to grow opportunities for both existing operators and new enterprises,” Cr Davis said.
The NENW Business Awards – delivered annually by Business NSW – showcased the strength and diversity of the region’s business community, with 91 businesses and 39 individuals in the running for 19 categories.
Diane Gray, Business NSW Regional Director NENW said, “Between all the finalists and winners, it is truly inspiring to see how our local businesses, whether small or large, are leading the way in innovation, diversity, and community impact.”
Media Release: Glen Innes Severn Council
