Burra beer and Harman wine flows as locals scoop Gippsland Business Awards

THE 2023 Gippsland Business ,Awards were on again last Friday night, a glittering event attended by business from all over the region, at Federation University Gippsland Campus.

And South Gippsland and Bass Coast businesses were well represented as finalists and category winners with Harman Wines of Wattlebank, Burra Brewing Company of Korumburra, CPK McLaren MotorBody of Leongatha and Deery Consulting of Inverloch among them.

“It was just a great night, well organised and run and obviously pleasing to win an award but just the opportunity to meet with other business owners in Gippsland and to see what they are doing as well,” said General Manager of Burra Brewing Company, Phil Dempster.

“The other pleasing aspect for us was to have our Pale Ale and Golden beers available for people to drink on the night and to see bottles of our beer on practically every table was nice, too.

“No, we’re very pleased.”

Not only were they celebrating the ‘Best Hospitality Business’ in Gippsland award, but Burra Brewing were also celebrating the success of their latest brew, the new XPA pale ale which hasn’t only received the rapt approval of local customers but also from the market as well were it has burst on to the wholesale scene with thrilling overnight success.

“The wholesalers, as well as our local customers, are telling us that it’s the best beer we’ve ever made, which is pretty pleasing as well.”

Here’s a summary of the local award winners.

And the winners are…

Congratulations to the 2023 Food & Wine Producers Winner - Harman Wines.

“Targeting clearly identified market opportunities, through progressive diversification and implementation of technological and environmental initiatives, businesses growth at Harman Wines has delivered increasing sales and patronage. This award is sponsored by East Gippsland Shire Council.”

“So thrilled to have been announced the winner of the Food and Wine Producers award at the 2023 Gippsland Business Awards,” said David and Nicole Harman, owners and founders of Harman Wines.

“Couldn't be more proud of our Harman Wines business and our awesome team and customers that make all this possible. Thank you the Gippsland Business Awards for this recognition. We are truly honoured,” they said on Facebook.

Congratulations to the Hospitality Winner - Burra Brewing Co.

“With real passion for its product, a focus on core values, prioritising product excellence and service delivery, Burra Brewing has met customer needs, while leveraging a strategic partnership to expand, creating potential for sustainable growth. This award is sponsored by Baw Baw Shire Council.”

“Winners are grinners!” said General Manager at Burra Brewing Company, Phil Dempster, on Facebook the night.

“In a world where just being good at what you do isn’t good enough, we pride ourselves on going above and beyond, in serving our customers, who in many cases have become our friends.

“Our business isn’t simply hospitality, we are a part of our community and we are so lucky that our locals have embraced us and want to be a part of us too.

“We look forward to serving all of you, either in our venue or simply here tonight enjoying our beer.”

Congratulations to the Mechanical Trades and Construction Winner - CPK McLaren MotorBody.

“Recognising evolving changes in the motor industry, CPK McLaren MotorBody has pro-actively invested in its future, introducing new technology and upskilling employees, whilst leveraging their established reputation and commitment to the highest quality workmanship, manufacturer specification repairs and customer satisfaction. This award is sponsored by Equip Super.”

Congratulations to the 2023 Business and Professional Services Winner – Deery Consulting Pty Ltd

“With a diverse workforce, Deery Consulting is committed to providing skilled jobs in regional areas, supporting its local community, and delivering innovative sustainable engineering solutions that demonstrate environmental responsibility. This award is sponsored by Wellington Shire Council.”

“So exciting to celebrate with other Bass Coast Shire businesses and to take home the win tonight - Deery Consulting winner Business and Professional Services, Harman Wines winner Food and Wine Producers and congratulations to finalists Brinnie T Design and Bass Coast Boat & Caravan Storage,” said a spokesperson for Deery Consulting.

“Wonderful to celebrate with so many fabulous businesses at the Gippsland Business Awards.”