For more than 30 years, family-owned Berwick Auto Electrics and Mechanical has built its reputation on trust, quality workmanship and putting customers at the centre of its service. 

Offering both mechanical and auto electrical services under one roof, the business makes vehicle maintenance and repairs simpler for customers. Clear explanations help customers understand their repair options, while loan vehicles, customer pick-up and drop-off, and secure after-hours options help minimise disruption to busy work and family schedules. 

The business continues to invest in advanced diagnostic equipment and staff training, helping its team accurately identify complex faults while providing customers with confidence in the work being undertaken. Customer feedback, online reviews and direct conversations are also used to continually improve the experience. 

Beyond the workshop, Berwick Auto Electrics and Mechanical shares its expertise with the wider community. Its Women on Wheels workshop attracted more than 50 local women, providing practical education on vehicle maintenance, tyre safety, warning lights and roadside emergencies. 

Judges recognised the business for its strong customer relationships, technical capability and commitment to making the automotive experience more convenient, informative and positive for local residents.

Being named the Excellence in Customer Experience winner recognises Berwick Auto Electrics and Mechanical’s longstanding commitment to building trust, creating lasting customer relationships and delivering genuine value to the Casey community.

Find out more about Berwick Auto Electrics and Mechanical on our Meet the Finalists page or at their website. 

For 25 years, Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park has combined tourism, wildlife conservation and education with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. Sustainability is embedded across its operations, from energy and water use to procurement, conservation programs and visitor education. 

The Pearcedale sanctuary has installed 80 solar panels, generating around 50% of its annual electricity needs, while an onsite wastewater treatment system recycles water to irrigate eucalyptus plantations used to provide food for its koalas. 

Its environmental impact also extends well beyond the sanctuary. Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park participates in breeding and recovery programs for threatened native species, with 87 Pookilas released at Cranbourne Gardens and more than 125 wild-born animals subsequently sighted. More than 10,400 students also participate in its environmental education programs each year.

Its long-term commitment has earned Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park Hall of Fame recognition from Ecotourism Australia following 20 years of ECO Certification. 

Judges recognised Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park for its outstanding environmental outcomes, long-term commitment to conservation and ability to embed sustainability across its business.

Find out more about Moonlit Sanctuary on our Meet the Finalists page or visit their website.

Based in Casey, Rez Architects is a three-person architectural practice proving that a small team can deliver ambitious results. Specialising in residential design, townhouse developments and small-scale commercial projects, the practice has built its reputation around personalised service, agility and strong client relationships. 

Clients work directly with the architect, allowing decisions and design changes to happen quickly without layers of administration. Each project is individually designed around the client’s lifestyle, needs and budget, supported by 3D models, iPad walk-throughs and real-time mark-ups that make complex architectural concepts easier to understand.

The business has also shown significant professional growth, transitioning from Rez Design Studios to a registered architectural practice while continuing to deliver projects and build its client base. Between January and June 2026, the practice managed 8 to 10 projects, supported by repeat clients, referrals and new work generated through its digital presence. 

Judges were impressed by the heart behind the practice, its professional progression and the culturally aware way it adapts its communication to support clients from diverse backgrounds.

Being named Best Micro Business recognises Rez Architects as a small, agile and highly personalised practice that demonstrates just how much impact a micro business can achieve.

Find out more about Rez Architects on our Meet the Finalists page or visit their website. 

Cranbourne West-based Jala Jala is a First Nations-owned food manufacturer creating premium products that bring together native Australian ingredients, artisan techniques and authentic First Nations storytelling. For Jala Jala, inclusion is not a standalone initiative, but a principle embedded in how the business operates and grows.

Founded by Sharon Brindley, Jala Jala has built a workplace culture centred on respect, collaboration and opportunity, valuing people for their capability, lived experience and potential. The business also continually reviews customer and employee feedback to identify barriers, improve accessibility and create welcoming experiences across its retail, online and customer service channels. 

Its commitment extends beyond the business itself. Through authentic storytelling, Jala Jala uses its products to share First Nations culture and language, while partnerships with Supply Nation, Kinaway, Global Victoria and Austrade help strengthen pathways and opportunities for First Nations enterprise.

This commitment has received national recognition, including being named 2025 Governor of Victoria Export Awards First Nations Exporter and a 2026 Australia Post Inclusion & Diversity Awards finalist. 

Judges recognised Jala Jala for its authentic approach to inclusion, cultural storytelling and advocacy, and the lived experience and purpose underpinning the business.

Find out more about Jala Jala on our Meet the Finalist page or visit their website.

Since opening in Cranbourne West in December 2024, Game On Entertainment Centre has quickly established itself as a unique local destination for families, friends and community groups to connect, celebrate and have fun. 

The family-owned business was created after identifying a gap in the local market for an affordable entertainment venue offering multiple experiences under one roof. Virtual reality games and escape rooms, private karaoke, arcade games, food and drinks, and exclusive venue hire have helped Game On Entertainment Centre build a distinctive offering within Casey.

Importantly for a new business, the team has listened and adapted. Customer and booking data prompted a shift towards exclusive venue hire and parties, alongside new trivia nights, open mic karaoke and community events. The results have been significant, with 84% revenue growth and a 67% increase in party bookings, while operating costs have reduced by 18%. 

The venue has also built strong customer loyalty, achieving a 4.9-star Google rating from 141 reviews, including 135 five-star reviews. Its community focus includes partnerships with schools, disability support providers and community groups, as well as tailored experiences for neurodiverse participants and people with disability. 

Judges recognised Game On Entertainment Centre for its clear vision, strong early growth and commitment to creating an accessible and welcoming entertainment experience for the Casey community.

Find out more about Game on Entertainment Centre on our Meet the Finalist page or their website.