Excellence in Business: Professional Services
Active Spine Centre
Founded in 2013 by Dr Jacob Black, Active Spine Centre has grown from a small clinic in Nagambie into a thriving health and wellbeing practice supporting more than 16,000 people across the region. Following the recent relocation of its Shepparton clinic to Wyndham Street, the business continues to expand while remaining focused on personalised care.
Offering chiropractic care, remedial massage, shockwave therapy and naturopathy, Active Spine Centre helps people throughout the Goulburn Valley move better, feel better and live healthier lives.
MB+M
For 80 years, MB+M has been a trusted provider of accounting, business advisory and financial planning services in the Goulburn Valley. With a team of more than 40 professionals, the firm supports individuals, families and businesses to make confident financial decisions at every stage of life.
Combining expert advice with genuine care, MB+M is dedicated to helping clients achieve their goals while continuing to give back to the community it has proudly called home for generations.
Active Spine Centre and MB+M. Pictured from left are Adrienne Gledhill, Vince Gagliardi and Anna McIntosh from MB+M, Frances Jenner from category sponsor GV Vets and Jacob Black from Active Spine Centre. Photo: Emma Harrop
Excellence in Business: Trade Services
FOOTT
Founded in Shepparton in 1992 by Peter and Jenny Foott, FOOTT has grown into one of regional Australia’s leading waste and recycling companies. Employing more than 100 people, operating a fleet of more than 50 trucks and servicing more than 2,300 customers across northern Victoria and southern New South Wales, the business continues to expand its regional capability.
From commercial and liquid waste services to recycling, bulk transport and event solutions, FOOTT combines scale with a strong commitment to local communities. More than 30 years on, the company continues to invest in its people, fleet and facilities while delivering reliable service across the region.
WINNER FOOTT Pictured are Zane Foott from Foott, Adam Woods, Board Chair from category sponsor Goulburn Murray Credit Union and Peter Foott from Foott. Photo: Emma Harrop
Excellence in Business: Retail Services
The Salvation Army Thrift Shop
The Mooroopna Salvation Army Thrift Shop is far more than a second-hand store. Supported by a dedicated team of around 20 volunteers, it has become a standout example of commercial success combined with community impact.
Following a significant expansion in 2026, the shop achieved record sales while staying true to its mission of providing affordable quality goods, giving donated items a second life and supporting people in need. Its success demonstrates what can be achieved when innovation, volunteer dedication and community spirit come together.
Emerging & Micro Business of the Year Award
Fetch the Vet
Fetch the Vet is transforming the way Greater Shepparton families care for their pets by bringing professional veterinary services directly to their homes. Founded by Dr Ben and Nurse Sally, the mobile practice is built on the belief that veterinary care should be compassionate, accessible, affordable and convenient.
By eliminating the stress of travel and waiting rooms, Fetch the Vet provides care where pets feel most comfortable. From welcoming a new puppy or kitten into the family to supporting pets through their senior years, the team is there for every stage of life.
Offering services including vaccinations, health checks, blood testing and ultrasounds, every visit is focused on building trust, easing concerns and providing personalised care. After all, pets are family, and there is no place like home.
Excellence in Innovation
Fortin Hats
Fortin Hats is an internationally award-winning millinery business based in Shepparton. Specialising in fur felt hats and recognised as an authorised Akubra repairer, Becky Fortin restores treasured hats for customers across Australia and around the world.
Her bespoke creations have featured on stage, in professional photoshoots and music videos both nationally and internationally. By blending traditional craftsmanship with digital innovation, Becky has built a global customer base while showcasing specialist regional skills on the world stage.
JMB Modular Buildings
JMB Modular Buildings is a locally owned and operated manufacturer delivering innovative construction solutions from its Shepparton base. With more than 15 years of building experience, the company has established itself as a leader in modern methods of construction.
Operating from a purpose-built facility, modules move through an eight-station production line and can be completed within 40 days, arriving on site up to 95 per cent finished. By combining quality design, energy efficiency and manufacturing innovation, JMB is delivering smarter, faster and more sustainable alternatives to traditional construction.
WINNERS Fortin Hats and JMB Modular Buildings. Pictured are James and Rachel Briggs from JMB Modular Buildings, Paula Allen from category sponsor NOUMI and Rebecca Fortin from Fortin Hats. Photo: Emma Harrop
Apprentice / Trainee of the Year Award
Ben De Cicco – RX Electrical & Data
As a second-year electrical apprentice with RX Electrical & Data, Ben De Cicco has embraced every opportunity to learn and grow. He enjoys the hands-on nature of the trade and values the experience and guidance of the team around him.
Ben approaches daily challenges on site with a positive attitude, consistently demonstrating a strong work ethic and willingness to learn. His commitment to developing his skills and continually improving has made him a valued member of the RX Electrical & Data team.
Dedicated, reliable and eager to progress, Ben is building a strong foundation for a successful career in the electrical industry.
Young Professional of the Year Award
Nathan Cirillo – Factor1
As one of Factor1’s newest directors, Nathan Cirillo has built his career on hard work, innovation and a commitment to excellence. A passionate young leader, Nathan is driven not only by business success but by creating an exceptional workplace culture and helping others reach their potential.
His focus on continuous improvement, leadership development and innovation is helping shape the future of Factor1 while making a positive impact on the people around him.
WINNER Nathan Cirillo from Factor1. Pictured are Nathan Cirillo from Factor1 and Neer Kaur from category sponsor Greater Shepparton Business Network. Photo: Emma Harrop
Best Marketing / Advertising Campaign Award
Hot and Cold Shop
The Hot and Cold Shop is a proudly locally owned and operated business that has grown from its Shepparton roots into a trusted name across the Goulburn Valley and beyond. Specialising in heating, cooling, hot water and solar power solutions, the business has built a strong reputation for quality workmanship, expert advice and exceptional customer service.
Continued growth has seen The Hot and Cold Shop expand its team, services and regional footprint while remaining committed to supporting local families, businesses and the wider community. At the heart of the business is a simple philosophy: deliver complete, energy-smart solutions under one roof, stand behind every job, and build lasting relationships with customers based on trust and reliability.
Shepparton Theatre Arts Group (STAG)
For more than 50 years, Shepparton Theatre Arts Group has enriched the Goulburn Valley with live theatre, creativity and entertainment, powered by the passion of its performers, volunteers and supporters.
As part of its 50th anniversary celebrations, STAG delivered a dynamic marketing campaign for its production of Chicago, using behind-the-scenes content, cast stories, social media and local media coverage to engage audiences and generate excitement. The campaign achieved outstanding results, with all seven performances selling out and attracting more than 2,700 audience members.
STAG’s success highlights the power of creative storytelling, community engagement and the enduring appeal of local performing arts.
Visitor Experience of the Year Award
Shepparton Art Museum (SAM)
Shepparton Art Museum is one of Australia’s leading regional art museums and the third-largest regional gallery in Victoria. Through dynamic exhibitions, engaging programs and a commitment to artistic excellence, SAM celebrates creativity, culture and the unique stories of the region.
Home to one of the nation’s most significant collections of Australian ceramics and important holdings of South Eastern Indigenous Art, SAM attracts visitors from across Victoria and beyond. In 2026, the museum celebrated 90 years of collecting while also hosting two landmark exhibitions, Facing Modernity: Degas to Picasso and the Victorian-exclusive presentation of the Archibald Prize, drawing tens of thousands of visitors to Shepparton and further cementing its reputation as a premier cultural destination.
Excellence in Customer Service: Retail / Hospitality Services
Everyday Supplies
Since 1997, Everyday Supplies has been helping businesses, schools, farms, offices and households across the Goulburn Valley and beyond with their everyday essentials. Proudly independent and family owned, the business has built its reputation on friendly service, expert advice and quality products.
From cleaning chemicals and washroom supplies to stationery, coffee, vacuums and workplace essentials, Everyday Supplies offers one of the largest product ranges in the region. Nearly three decades on, the team continues to be the trusted one-stop shop for customers throughout northern Victoria.
Excellence in Customer Service: Professional Services
Adina’s Dental Cosmetics
Adina’s Dental Cosmetics is a family-run practice proudly serving the Greater Shepparton community. Built on a genuine passion for people, the team believes outstanding dentistry is about much more than creating healthy smiles.
Through personalised care, innovation and a commitment to excellence, Adina’s Dental Cosmetics has created a welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable, valued and supported. Their focus on building trust and delivering exceptional service has earned them a reputation for treating every patient like family.
WINNER Adinas Dental Cosmetics. Pictured Ashlea Kunowski from category sponsor LoveTheGV and Wendy Zeng, Dr Nhut Tran and Dr Lindy Tran from Adinas Dental Cosmetics. Photo: Emma Harrop
Excellence in Customer Service: Trade Services
Hair by Stephanie
Established in 2022, Hair by Stephanie is a boutique salon built on the belief that exceptional customer service starts with genuine connection. With more than 15 years of industry experience, Stephanie Kadamani has honed her craft in leading Melbourne and Shepparton salons before creating a space where hospitality and hairdressing come together.
Known for her warm and welcoming approach, Stephanie has built a loyal client base that feels more like family. As she says, “It’s more than just hair. It’s the people, their lives and their stories that I have the privilege and honour of serving.”
A finalist for three consecutive years, Hair by Stephanie continues to set a high standard for customer service, professionalism and care.
WINNER Hair By Stephanie. Pictured are Stephanie Kadamani from Hair by Stephanie and Adrienne Gledhill from category sponsor MB+M. Photo: Emma Harrop
Hall of Fame inductee
Talisman Menswear
For almost 20 years, Talisman Menswear has been a trusted part of the Mooroopna and Goulburn Valley community, helping generations of men look their best for life’s most important occasions. Founded by Paul Jerome in 2007, the business has built its reputation on personalised service, quality clothing and genuine relationships with its customers.
Through challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2022 floods, Talisman has remained a constant presence in the community, adapting when needed while continuing to support local families. The business’s longevity, resilience and commitment to customer service have earned it a well-deserved place in the Greater Shepparton Business Network Hall of Fame.
