Proterra takes out top spot at Business Excellence Awards 2020

The Focus HR Business Excellence Awards took on a special meaning this year as businesses found innovative ways to overcome COVID-19 challenges. See the full list of winners here.

Lauren Janson-Roberts was named Future Leader of the Year at the Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards last night. Picture: Nev Madsen

Dozens of people gathered at the glittering black-tie event at the Empire Theatre last night to celebrate local business.

This year the application process was simplified and there were over 600 nominations and 100 applicants for the Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce event.

The Focus HR Business of the Year 2020 was awarded to civil engineering company Proterra Group, for their work in strengthening regional communities and gaining the best deals for ratepayers.

“While all finalists should be very proud of their achievements in a difficult year, there could be only one Business of the Year and this time Proterra Group was the standout,” Toowoomba Chamber CEO Todd Rohl said.

“Proterra Group’s success this year follows last year’s accolade for Best Regional Business.

“The company is highly regarded for its work with 16 local councils covering an area from Toowoomba to Longreach and Quilpie to Moree.”

List of award winners:

Focus HR Business of the Year 2020: Proterra Group

Future Leader of the Year – Lauren Janson-Roberts

Lauren is the inspirational owner of Cropt Salon and Sweet Talk Café in Margaret Street

Toowoomba.

Toowoomba Chamber – Hall of Fame Inductee 2020 – Tilly’s Crawler Parts

Best Regional Business – NRG Services

Gerry Doumany Export Award – Mort & Co

People’s Choice – Hogans Family Jewellers

Future Star – Hamish Brown of Hammy’s Cupcakes

Tourism – Rosalie House Cellar Door

Hospitality – Rosalie House Cellar Door

Industry – Proterra Group

Professional Services – Akadia Trading

Retail – Westridge Fruit & Vegetables

Community and NFP – Protea Place

Innovations & Technology – Pro-Test Well Services

Health & Wellbeing – Radiance Dance Academy

Employer of Choice – Power Tynan