Telstra Best of Business Awards 2024: Queensland winners

These top Queensland small businesses are leading the way when it comes to innovation, inspiration and economic know-how.

Seven Queensland companies at the forefront of driving Australia’s progress have been recognised in Telstra’s annual Best of Business Awards.

Selected from more than 22,000 nominations of small businesses nationwide, state winners have been lauded for their significant contributions to the Australian economy and society.

SCROLL DOWN TO SEE THE QUEENSLAND WINNERS

Telstra’s business group executive Amanda Hutton said the state winners represented the “brilliant business minds our country has to offer” and were inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs.

“The calibre of small and medium-sized businesses in Australia is nothing short of exceptional,” she said.

“We couldn’t be prouder to celebrate the winning businesses and the people behind them, recognising their relentless efforts and incredible potential while inspiring the next generation of small businesses in Australia.”

The winners were evaluated on multiple criteria, including economic sustainability, operational effectiveness, technology adoption, progressive leadership, culture, and social and community contribution.

The program features seven distinct categories, each highlighting the specific achievements and contributions of the businesses.

State winners will head to Sydney on February 7, with national winners announced the following day.

QUEENSLAND’S BEST BUSINESSES

In the Sunshine State of Queensland, seven companies were recognised as trailblazers in their respective categories.

These businesses shaping the state’s economic landscape and contributing to its growth are:

Founder and CEO of Accessible Homes Australia (Building Communities) Perry Cross AM. Picture: Remco Jansen

Building Communities: Accessible Homes Australia

Accessible Homes Australia AHA, an NDIS-registered Specialist Disability Accommodation provider, was founded by Perry Cross AM, a ventilated quadriplegic with personal insight into the significance of accessible housing. AHA is committed to creating high-quality accessible homes.

Sunshine Hydro CEO Rick McElhinney and founder, director and CTO Chris Baker. Picture: Supplied

Promoting Sustainability: Sunshine Hydro

Sunshine Hydro is a carbon-neutral energy company using extended-duration energy storage via pumped hydro systems.

ConnectedLE co-founders Dr Kylie Armstrong and Nicole Evans. Picture: Supplied

Championing Health: ConnectedLE

ConnectedLE is an innovative online platform that combines storytelling and science to enhance mental fitness.

Their team empowers frontline service professionals to improve mental health in communities and workplaces, promoting proactive wellbeing in Australia.

Australian Training Works Group managing director north Tony Martens, general manager Daijah Martens and managing director south Ashley Martens. Picture: Supplied

Indigenous Excellence: Australian Training Works Group

Founded by Gunggandji men, Tony and Ashley Martens, the business provides meaningful skills development and employment opportunities for First Nations Peoples, focusing on tailored solutions for Indigenous training and employment outcomes.

The Audacious Agency creative director Annette Densham and managing director. Picture: Supplied

Accelerating Women: The Audacious Agency

The Audacious Agency, founded by Annette Densham and Lauren Clemett, elevates businesses through compelling storytelling.

Chirpyplus was created by mother and son duo Carol and Shaun Mahoney. Picture: Supplied

Embracing Innovation: Chirpyplus

Chirpyplus employs modern technology and in-person meet-ups to combat loneliness in Australians aged 50 and over.

LSKD founder Jason Daniel. Picture: Supplied

Outstanding Growth: LSKD

LSKD is an Australian brand known for crafting top-tier sportswear with a street-style flair.

Through their direct-to-consumer app and eCommerce platform, LSKD offers a convenient way for Australians to shop for high-quality apparel, including options for women, men, and unisex styles.

Originally published as Telstra Best of Business Awards 2024: Queensland winners