Mount Alexander Business Awards winners announced
Published on 19 November 2025
Mount Alexander Shire Council is proud to announce the winners of the 2025 Mount Alexander Business Awards.
The awards are a celebration of the outstanding enterprises shaping the future of our region.
The presentation evening was at Boomtown on Wednesday night, and brought together business owners, community leaders and supporters for a fantastic evening of celebration.
Ten exceptional businesses were honoured on the night, each demonstrating that business success can go hand-in-hand with care for community, Country and culture.
Like Butter took out both the Innovation and Technology Award and the prestigious title of Business of the Year.
The judges praised the design and manufacturing studio for its clever and creative use of innovation and technology, as well as its deep commitment to ethical practice. Using Australian timber and a modular, swappable furniture system, Like Butter designs for longevity, repair and adaptability. Operating on a degrowth model and four-day work week, the business impressed judges as the most outstanding example of a local enterprise contributing to the wellbeing of people, place and the environment.
In the highly competitive Community Impact category, Tarrangower Times took top honours. As one of the few remaining independent newspapers in the region, it plays a vital role in informing and empowering the local community. Embedded in Maldon life for over 150 years, the paper remains a trusted voice and a cornerstone of local civic life.
Meanwhile, PJ’s Discount Tyre Service was named winner of the Outstanding Workplace category. The independent dealership is known for its hands-on leadership, supportive team culture and strong community ties. With investment in training and staff recognition, PJ’s shows how a small business can lead by example when it comes to valuing people.
The People’s Choice Award – the only category determined by community vote – was jointly awarded to two local favourites: Castlemaine Community Investment Co-operative and Shedshaker Brewing. The strong community response reflects the deep local pride in businesses that create positive social spaces and local impact.
Merryn Tinkler, Council’s Manager Economy and Culture, said the awards were a celebration of local leadership.
“These businesses show that success isn’t just about growth – it’s about purpose,” Ms Tinkler said.
“They’re reducing waste, creating welcoming workplaces, supporting local voices and building community resilience. That’s what a wellbeing economy looks like, and these winners are leading the way.”
The 2025 awards align with Council’s Economic Development Strategy, which places wellbeing at the centre of economic life. New and refreshed categories reflect that vision, recognising excellence in accessibility, sustainability, local produce and innovation.
Council thanks all entrants, finalists, sponsors, judges and supporters who made the awards possible.
Winners:
- Business of the Year – Like Butter
- People’s Choice – Castlemaine Community Investment Co-operative and Shedshaker Brewing (joint winners)
- Local Food Excellence – Superhero Bánh Mì
- Accessibility Champion – Big4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park
- Sustainability Hero – Green Goes the Grocer
- NextGen Champion – Shedshaker Brewing
- Innovation and Technology – Like Butter
- Outstanding Workplace – PJ's Discount Tyre Service
- Community Impact – Tarrangower Times
Visit www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/Business-Awards to find out more.
For more information, contact Daniel Bone, Council’s Economic Development Coordinator, on 5471 1700 or at d.bone@mountalexander.vic.gov.au.
Sponsors and partners
The Mount Alexander Business Awards are run by Mount Alexander Shire Council with the support of our wonderful sponsors and partners including Gold Partner Don and Principal Media Partner Midland Express and Castlemaine Mail.