The finalists for the 2023 Eastside Business Awards range from long-standing public radio station Three D Radio to free range meat providores Bos Taurus Butchery to Sanare Wellness, a group of psychologists and holistic practitioners.

City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters Mayor Robert Bria said this reflects the Council area’s eclectic business mix and wide range of business environments.

“We have traditional shopping centres, strip shopping, light industrial zones, co-working spaces and home-based businesses,” Bria said.

“These environments have not only allowed different types of businesses to set up according to their needs, but has also sustained them because of the certainty of land use.

“For example, the Glynde Light Industrial Area has been a food manufacturing hub for over 40 years and as such, it has attracted food manufacturers to the area.”

Bria said the clustering of like businesses also supported individual and sector growth.

“All of the evidence and research suggests that when similar businesses operate in clusters, they perform better individually and as a collective,” he said.

“Being physically located close to each other means business can leverage off, and complement each other, to add value to their offerings and in effect, create a micro economy where their combined skills, knowledge and contacts can attract investment for their sector.

“That is why the Eastside Wine & Ale Trail continues to grow and the Food Secrets of Glynde and Stepney have worked so well.” 

Outside of the clusters, there are also many unique retailers and service providers. Bria, who has lived in the council area his whole life, said awards finalist Three D Radio was one such institution in the area.

“[The radio station] provides entertainment as well as opportunities for young people wanting to learn more about radio and broadcasting. It is a great example of community radio staying in touch with its listeners and developing a strong presence in our City, which people have come to appreciate,” he said.

The Eastside Business Awards provides a platform for business recognition that goes beyond the finalists and winners.

“I want these awards to shine a light on the incredible diversity of businesses in our city,” Bria said.

“Being a relatively small Council close to the CBD, with a significant business community means we are well placed to do different things with our businesses and facilitate opportunities to give greater exposure to sectors which may not be otherwise well represented.

“Having categories that recognise independent stores and customer service ensures that smaller businesses don’t miss out.

“We know how important it is for a thriving business community to be recognised and rewarded for their longevity, innovation and passion in providing a product, service or experience to their customers and clients.”

The Eastside Business Awards is a partnership between Solstice Media and the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters. This is the sixth year of the awards.

Award winners in each category receive $1000 in digital advertising to be spent with Solstice Media and a choice of a business advisory service to the value of $1000 with AFM Services.

The practical nature of the prizes reflects the Council’s support for business.

“Operating a business is hard work and is always fraught with risks, so the Council wants local traders to know it is there for support and advocacy as a level of government,” Mayor Bria said.

“Plus, the Council is always interested in the stories and the people behind the business, which more often than not, start from very humble beginnings.

“All of these elements combined, make these Awards an excellent initiative, which hopefully inspires others.”

Winners of the 2023 Eastside Business Awards will be announced at the Awards ceremony on April 19.