Bairnsdale’s Carter Marine Group and Glenaladale’s High Country Hooch Distilling Co have flown the flag for East Gippsland, taking out major category honours at the 28th annual Latrobe Health Services Gippsland Business Awards.
The local enterprises were celebrated among the region’s top business performers at a gala dinner attended by more than 350 people at the Federation University auditorium.
While South Gippsland’s Harman Wines took home the overall Business of the Year title, East Gippsland’s winners demonstrated the innovation and resilience driving the local economy.
Awards Chair Graeme Sennett congratulated the winners, highlighting the depth of capability across regional Victoria.
“This year’s winners represent the very best of our region — people who work hard, lift others up and show what’s possible when local businesses thrive together,” Mr Sennett said.
“They demonstrate excellence, innovation and resilience, setting the benchmark for what regional business can achieve.”
Bairnsdale-based Carter Marine Group claimed the award for Engineering/Manufacturing/Construction, with judges praising the firm’s rapid growth and commitment to quality.
Nick George, CMG Director said it was a great win for the business.
“Winning this award has really showed us that we’re going in the right direction,” he said.
“It’s really a credit for the team at CMG – they’re a great bunch of people.”
The panel noted that Carter Marine Group has developed into a highly regarded marine construction business by investing in its workforce, engineering bespoke solutions, and maintaining strong repeat-customer relationships.”Its inclusive workplace culture, bespoke service, and expansion plans demonstrate the capability and confidence of a Gippsland business ready to compete on a much larger stage,” judges remarked.
In the New Business category, Glenaladale’s High Country Hooch Distilling Co proved that a rural footprint can be a major competitive advantage.
Owners, Paul and Leanne Poulter said they were “absolutely stoked” with the win.
“It’s great to have some recognition, we were in a bit of shock when we heard our name get called,” the pair said.
“We set out to build a local business, and we’ve done that. The award has inspired us to do more and go further with our business.
“The win is a fantastic thing for East Gippsland – we love putting back into the community that has supported us, we’re so grateful for them.”
Judges highlighted how the distillery turned its regional location into a core strength, cultivating brand loyalty through local events, direct community engagement, and spirits shaped by regional ingredients.
“Its creativity, adaptability, and future plans show how an emerging business can earn attention and market share through authenticity and strong community connections,” the panel stated.
