2019 Finalists

Celebrating ‘that’ moment for our finalists
The 2019 Telstra Business Awards finalists represent the highest achievers in Australian business. The Awards aim to celebrate the most innovative and entrepreneurial businesses across four categories, designed to recognise small to medium businesses in their respective fields.

Learn more about the 2019 finalists below – find out who they are, where they’re from and how they came to be ‘that’ business achieving even more in 2019.

Finalists

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A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
TAS

4Front Services

“We want to run a successful and respected business. Our goal is to make it so easy for clients to interact with us, that we become the obvious choice.” Mark Richardson, Director

Created by four tradies joining forces together, 4Front Services provides electrical, air conditioning, refrigeration and solar installation and maintenance services for the residential and commercial sectors in Southern Tasmania. Approaching work and customers with a genuine ethos of honesty and integrity, transparency is the backbone of this two-year-old business.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
TAS

A1 Tree Services

“We are a small family business that aims to be Tasmania's leading vegetation management and arboriculture professionals.” Leigh Winwood, General Manager

Established more than 10 years ago, A1 Tree Services provides vegetation management services for the general public, local councils and around power lines for TasNetworks.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
QLD

Abundance Global

“We help socially conscious business owners and entrepreneurs do what they love best and achieve things they never thought possible, so that together we contribute to global abundance.” Dr David Dugan, Chief Executive Officer and Founder

Founded by Dr David Dugan seven years ago, Abundance Global is an education, mentoring and support community for small and medium business entrepreneurs who want to create intergenerational wealth for themselves and their communities. Their mission is to support one million socially conscious business owners globally by 2027.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
ACT

Accelerate Physiotherapy

“Being a physiotherapist can be both physically and emotionally draining. We aim to address this by being the best workplace possible for our staff, while also providing exceptional customer service.” Jennifer Maher, Practice Manager

Accelerate was founded in 2017 by William Maher and Adnan Asger Ali after recognising there must be a more sustainable way to practice physiotherapy – one that led to less staff burnout and greater client satisfaction, across fields as diverse as elite sports, pregnancy and post-op rehab.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
NT

Advanced Air

“We saw a gap in the market to provide exceptional air-conditioning cleaning services on top of our usual maintenance services. No equipment on the market could do the job properly.” Dean Gebert, Manager and Director

Advanced Air provides much-needed air conditioning installation, repairs and maintenance services to residential and commercial properties in Darwin’s hot climate. Advanced Air is led by its Founder and Director, Dean Gebert, with a focus on delivering high-quality and power-saving services at an affordable price.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
NT

AFA Insurance Brokers

“Our clients have peace of mind when they know their general insurance needs are being taken care of.” Riccardo Lelli, Director

Established in 1999, AFA Insurance Brokers is the largest privately-owned insurance broking company in the Northern Territory. Led by Managing Directors, Fernando Di Toro and Riccardo Lelli, the company is proud to support the Darwin community by employing and investing locally.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
TAS

Alison's Garden & Landscape

“We have developed a holistic, professional service with the commitment, empathy, extensive knowledge and understanding of the specialised environments and circumstances we work within.” Alison Flakemore, Director

Twenty years ago, Alison Flakemore entered the garden and landscape industry with an old van, a lawnmower and basic hand tools. Today, the services offered by Alison’s Garden & Landscape include gutter cleaning, excavation and cartage, commercial cleaning and contracts with corporate clients and the Tasmanian Government.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
QLD

Appoint

“We are a competent crew of recruitment enthusiasts, building successful relationships with our clients and candidates through our professionalism, integrity and a dash of humour.” Jackie Wythes, Director

Led by Directors Jackie Wythes and Kim Coghill, Appoint is a recruitment agency full of natural-born problem solvers who like to think outside the box. So when it comes to recruitment, there’s no challenge too big or too small for the crew at Appoint. While they’re often working against the clock, they always find time to push the boundaries.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
QLD

Avenue Dental

“Our purpose is to positively transform dentistry. We do this by optimising our people and workplace cultures, our patients’ lives and experiences.” Dr Stephen Dudgeon, Dentist

Recognising the increasing corporate influence and negative stigma associated with going to the dentist, Avenue Dental’s purpose is to positively transform the way Australians perceive the industry. This group of Sunshine Coast dental practices collaborates with university student associations to invest in the development of graduates, while offering above and beyond clinical and personalised services to their clients.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
QLD

aXcelerate

“We aim to be a global leader in competency-based performance assessment. This will become a critical success factor for individuals and organisations competing in skills-focused economies.” Reay Mackay, Managing Director

aXcelerate is an innovative training and assessment management system. It is built on the mission to support life-long learning which empowers individuals and organisations with vocational skills, knowledge and competencies to compete in a rapidly evolving digital world. aXcelerate provides an end-to-end business solution for training organisations to manage all aspects of the student lifecycle.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
ACT

Axis Hairdressing

“Our vision is to create a warm, unpretentious and comfortable salon experience that offers luxury service at an affordable price.” Nicole Dwight, Business Owner

Axis Hairdressing has been a byword for hair-styling excellence in Canberra for more than a quarter of a century, offering an affordable luxury experience to every client. Co-owned by Salon Manager Nicole Dwight, Creative Director Adam Ciaccia and Head Colourist Michelle Ciaccia, the salon is all about making clients feel comfortable, confident and at ease.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
NSW

Barker Ryan Stewart

“Our vision is to be a pre-eminent property and infrastructure consultancy that creates and improves the communities in which we all live.” Glenn Barker, Managing Director

Barker Ryan Stewart is a property and infrastructure consultancy specialising in the core services of planning, project management, civil engineering, transport planning and traffic engineering, surveying, and subdivision certification.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
VIC

Be Fit Food

“Be Fit Food takes the guesswork out of healthy eating by providing Australians with scientifically formulated meals for improving overall health and wellbeing.” Kate Save, Chief Executive Officer and Co Founder

Combining their weight loss industry expertise, bariatric surgeon, Geoffrey Draper, and dietitian, exercise physiologist and diabetes educator, Kate Save, created Be Fit Food as a food-based tool to promote weight loss, remedy chronic disease and enhance long-term health.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
TAS

Bellevue Advisors

“We create value for small businesses through mentoring and education, something they often miss out on, but is critical to their long-term success.” Lucinda Mills, Principal

Bellevue Advisors is a chartered accounting practice built on the importance of learning, in an industry that is constantly evolving through legislative, political and technical change. This emerging firm and its growing team of 19 staff has established itself to provide compliance services as well as assist businesses to pursue their goals.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
NT

Berry Springs Tavern

“It is the mission of Berry Springs Tavern to provide customers a special, personalised experience unique to our rural locality.” Leah Sloan, Owner

Berry Springs Tavern is a family-friendly, semi-rural pub offering a comfortable dining experience in the Darwin region. Owners, Leah and Ian Sloan, pride themselves on the versatile venue they’ve created - from organising a 1.5kg ‘Parmageddon’ food challenge to inviting guests to visit their baby crocodile and emus.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
VIC

Bikram Yoga Mill Park

“Our mission is to create a safe haven for people to move, strengthen and breathe with physical, emotional and mental support.” Jodie McClintock, Director

Bikram Yoga Mill Park provides a supportive space for the local community to fulfil all of their fitness and mindfulness needs. With a mission of inclusivity, the studio offers classes that cater to all skill levels, with a range of timeslots and pricing options available to suit each participant’s individual needs.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
NSW

Biologi

“Today, consumers are looking for natural skincare products that actually work. This inspired us to design a 100% active plant extract serum that changes the skin on a cellular level.” Lucy Kuper, Managing Director

Biologi is a new brand that is revolutionising the skincare industry using its ground-breaking technology to create 100 percent active, plant-based serums that are delivering unprecedented results.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
TAS

Biteable

“The internet is continually transforming into a video-based platform. Our mission is to make it simple for every business to engage their audience through video.” Rena Frith, Social Media Marketer

Biteable is a digital marketing platform that allows marketers to build videos from a library of professionally designed content. The service allows a novice user to quickly create a new video that looks as if it were made by a professional production agency. Biteable's greatest value is in its ability to enable time-poor marketers to engage their audience in an affordable way.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
NSW

Bohemian Traders

“Bohemian Traders epitomises classic European cuts for the modern bohemian. We blend classic styles and cuts with a bohemian aesthetic to provide size-inclusive fashion basics.” Emily Berlach, Founder and Creative Director

In 2014, Emily Berlach founded Bohemian Traders at her kitchen table, with three toddlers at her feet. She was inspired to create classic European clothing with a bohemian twist that was fashion-forward but still easy to care for.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
NSW

Bondi Beach Baby

“I took an everyday essential baby item and turned it into a fashion accessory for new mums.” Teena Zerefos Waldron, Founder and Chief Executive Officer

Bondi Beach Baby is a maker of organic cotton muslin baby swaddles and accessories. Founder Teena Zerefos Waldron created the business in 2016 after the birth of her first daughter, when she saw a gap in the market for high-quality, fashionable baby products.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
SA

Bowhill Engineering

“We’re passionate about large complex structural steel fabrication and collaborating with our customers. We want to partner with them, not just take their order. ” Jeremy Hawkes, Managing Director

Bowhill Engineering is a boutique business specialising in building complex steel structures including bridges, wharves and ferries, with an innovative and practical process. Its team of experts work across the design, surveying, drafting and engineering of projects.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
NSW

BxNetworking for Business

“With many small businesses failing in the first years of operation, we help them grow and thrive for life through networking, community and education.” Matt Alderton, Chief Executive Officer and Founder

In 2008, founder Matt Alderton was facing bankruptcy after a business partner defrauded him and his then business of over $500,000. After selling his family home and repaying all these debts, Matt persevered and in 2015 launched BxNetworking for Business, to help other entrepreneurs learn about resilience, sustainability, and growing their business.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
VIC

Centorrino Technologies

“We exist to empower every person, from the classroom to the boardroom, by providing a frustration-free tech environment.” Adam Centorrino, Managing Director

Founded in 2006, Centorrino Technologies is an IT advisory company providing a wide array of professional services including managed IT services, cloud solutions, web hosting and resourcing services. It serves various industries including medium-sized businesses, schools and government agencies.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
ACT

centreRED

“Our mission is to drive transformation in businesses by providing high quality and mission critical management services in IT support, digital transformations, security and communications.” Adele Pickering, General Manager

centreRED is an IT services company that delivers technology solutions and partners with small and medium businesses. Founded in 1996 by CEO Kent Forster, the team specialises in day-to-day IT support, digital transformation, security and communications technologies – all designed to enable businesses to access best-in-class technology.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
ACT

CIC City Industrial Cleaning

“We’ve grown our reputation in the industry for over 20 years through our impeccable service. We continue to deliver while striving to grow the business locally and nationally.” Jorge Montalvo, Director

Jorge Montalvo set up CIC City Industrial Cleaning more than two decades ago to cater to large and demanding construction projects in and around Canberra. With a flexible workforce, the business is able to deploy an army of cleaners to respond to emergencies such as the 2018 Canberra Chifley Library flood, where 70 employees were deployed to assist with the damage.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
SA

Cindy’s Classic Gourmet

“My vision is to provide the highest level of service to my clients and create beautiful, memorable functions for them.” Cindy Westphalen, Owner/Director

Cindy’s Classic Gourmet offers wedding and function planning with a completely personalised and holistic customer experience from beginning to end. Often working with clients who have never planned a function, the business’ policy ensures the customer always feels they are in safe hands.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
ACT

Coordinate Group

A full-service marketing and communications consultancy, Coordinate Group delivers strategy, creative and media to brands. With a mission to provide clients with confidence, capability and insights their clients include McDonald's, Australian National University and the Canberra Institute of Technology.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
TAS

Crusader Homes

Crusader Homes provides clients with beautifully designed and high-quality homes at a low cost for residents mainly located in the Derwent Valley. This family owned and operated business prides itself on its commitment to build houses on a given time frame and within budget.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
NT

Curtin Springs

“We are passionate about our land, our staff, our family who are the heart of our business, the animals we care for and the visitors we share our home with.” Lyndee Severin, Business Manager

Blending pastoral history and productive land use of the Central Australian landscape, Curtin Springs is now a tourist destination in its own right. Curtin Springs provides visitors with a unique appreciation for the deeply layered mosaic of Central Australian landscape, culture and environment.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
VIC

Dashing Designer Dogs

“Our team all have one thing in common, a love for dogs. We pride ourselves on offering personalised dog grooming for all breeds, small and large.” Amanda White, Owner and Managing Director

Established 25 years ago, Dashing Designer Dogs is a dog grooming service for all breeds and sizes. Owner and Managing Director Amanda White created the company around the idea that a well cared for dog reflects that love back to its owner.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
ACT

Define Fitness

“Our team is collectively focused on achieving above and beyond when it comes to our clients’ health and wellbeing. Our vision is to help build a physically active, healthier Canberra.” Nathan Hitchcock, Owner/Founder

Define Fitness is helping clients become their fittest and healthiest yet through its health and fitness services, which includes personal training, partner sessions, group fitness and corporate programs. The team also works with the local community’s health and wellbeing services to assist people with mental, intellectual and physical challenges.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
TAS

Dr Daniel Tan & Associates

“We are fiercely committed to the optimal health and wellbeing of our patients by educating and providing them with holistic options for dental, aesthetic and general health care.” Dr Daniel Tan, Director

Dr Daniel Tan & Associates has been dedicated to bringing a holistic approach to dental, aesthetic and general health care to Launceston for the past 10 years. With a key focus on educating the public on the means of reaching optimal health and wellbeing, the team receives ongoing career development and support, to provide the best possible service to their patients.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
VIC

eCreators

“We’re using our passion for EdTech to create an affordable eLearning Management System that is available to all, eliminating cost as the barrier to acquiring quality education.” Dean Saunders, Chief Executive Officer

Since 2007, Dean Saunders has led the dedicated team of eCreators in their passion for online education to create all forms of learning technology, available to learners across all demographics and geographies. Together, they have created an affordable and scalable platform to help organisations grow.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
QLD

Enterprise Legal

“We hope to provide a personalised and superior value proposition for clients, which simply doesn’t exist anywhere else in our local market.” Peta Gray, Principal Legal Director

Enterprise Legal is a dynamic and progressive NewLaw firm that brings its innovative approach to businesses in and around Toowoomba. Catering to businesses and organisations of all sizes, in particular in the construction and commercial property industries, the business brings fixed or capped fees to an area where they were otherwise unavailable.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
ACT

EPL Electrical

“With a focus on quality, we are dedicated to delivering efficient and effective electrical services to our customers.” Anthony Evans, Director

With the belief that customer service is paramount to building a thriving business, EPL Electrical provides a personal approach to power and lighting maintenance and repairs. Counting more than seven years of professional experience, EPL Electrical is led by its founder and Director, Anthony Evans who joined forces with a former colleague, Michael Berzins to grow from sole trader to joint partnership.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
ACT

face2face Recruitment

“There’s much more to you than just your resume. Our purpose is to connect quality employers with talented employees through innovative and personal recruitment.” Kate Prior, Managing Director

face2face Recruitment is a recruitment agency, servicing government, private and not-for-profit organisations. Its mission is to deliver quality service while helping employers find the best candidates and helping candidates win positions.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
SA

FCT Holdings

“Our burning desire is to reduce the environmental impact and improve the sustainability of our clients’ operations through our innovative products and services.” Con Manias, Managing Director

Comprised of three subsidiaries, FCT Combustion, FCT ACTech and FCT Flames, FCT Holdings design emission-reducing burner systems for the industrial processing of cement, iron ore and minerals as well as delivering spectacular flame effects for high profile events, including the Olympic Games.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
SA

Foil Me

“We want hairdressers all over the world to have easier and happier lives. We love that we have changed people’s lives and provided a community for our Foil Me lovers.” Emily Ciardiello, Director

Foil Me was born from the vision to help hairdressers have an easier life by providing them with products that are unique, fun and easy to use. Since inception in 2014, Foil Me has evolved to not only create premium and efficient products, but to also ensure that clients are supported past the buying stage, particularly on social media.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
NSW

Foye Legal

“It is our primary objective to keep our clients and their families safe, and free from worry and financial hardship in any circumstance.” Diana Foye, Chief Executive Officer & Chief Lawyer

Foye Legal specialises in personal injury litigation, commercial litigation, military law, business law, family law, property law, estate planning, family provision claims and dispute resolution. The firm is uniquely positioned to provide advocacy for human rights protection on a national basis.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
TAS

Freestone Building Surveying

“We want to relieve the stresses of building and create value for our customers by making the process and regulations an easy path to navigate.” Mark Schmidt, Director

Freestone Building Surveying operates across Tasmania and specialises in residential projects. The business’ practices and skills create ease in the building process and ensure projects are compliant with the Tasmanian Legislation and Building Code of Australia.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
VIC

Front Age Consulting

“We are a boutique recruitment consultancy firm that provides 360-degree recruitment services for high volume and labour-intensive industries.” Cassandra Lee, Key Account Director

Front Age Consulting is a global recruitment and training partner assisting lower socio-economic jobseekers get into meaningful, sustainable long-term employment with international brands across labour-intensive industries, with a specific focus in the aviation industry.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
VIC

Future Golf

Rather than traditional golf memberships where members are restricted to a single club, Future Golf is a community that has partnered with various golf clubs to give members affordable access to courses and golf events all over Australia. Its aim is to encourage more people to take up golf by providing a pathway for complete beginners to become regular golfers.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
VIC

Gallant Plumbing

“Our vision is to provide the best customer service experience possible and redefine the standards of what people should expect from all trades." Edward Clark, Director

Gallant Plumbing is a maintenance plumbing business specialised in servicing property professionals, businesses and homeowners. It offers a variety of plumbing services, including general maintenance, roof repairs and hot water services. Gallant Plumbing is driven by innovation and an absolute commitment to exceptional customer service.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
VIC

Glass Ontime

“Imagine a world where you book your tradie like you book your Uber. At Glass Ontime we're disrupting the way people use the internet to find and hire their tradie.” Sally Clinton, Co-founder

Glass Ontime provides an on-demand market platform to connect customers with tradespeople in the glass industry. The platform provides customers with upfront pricing, online booking services, cashless payment and job tracking. Tradies receive guaranteed work instead of quoting dead-end leads and customers don’t need to ring around for pricing options.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
QLD

Gold Property Partners

“We provide new home-buyers with an alternative to the traditional display home process, offering multi-branded solutions from an unbiased position – much like a mortgage broker helps obtain loans.” Tim Gold, Director

In 2016, Tim Gold founded Gold Property Partners as a new way to help home-buyers select a home, after working for many years in lending services for the banking sector. The building brokerage service helps customers choose their perfect new-build home by combining innovative technology and good old-fashioned customer service.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
SA

Green Frog Systems

“We are passionate about our planet and about connecting ideas, people and technology. We are constantly learning, adapting and designing solutions that are smarter, sustainable and cost-effective.” David Wilson, Director

Founded in 2011, Green Frog Systems is shaping the future of commercial solar lighting solutions. Designing and manufacturing world-class solar, road and pathway lighting systems, GFS focuses on carbon-neutral, environmentally friendly energy alternatives. It serves various industries including government, mining, oil, gas and commercial infrastructure.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
VIC

Happiness Concierge

“We believe everyone can be a Happiness Concierge in their lives. Our purpose is to help people ace work and life.” Rachel Service, Founder

After suffering from anxiety, depression and burnout throughout her career, Rachel Service decided there had to be a better way to work. Inspired by an ‘aha’ moment at a Beyonce concert, she founded Happiness Concierge to provide training sessions to corporations and individuals to help employees manage stress and take advantage of opportunities to excel at work.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
NT

HD Earthworks

“We have seasoned ourselves and prepared for the future to become one of the most diverse movers and shakers of the NT earthmoving industry.” Taylor Smith, Managing Director

HD Earthworks are a family-owned, civil earthworks company that caters to the mining needs of Rio Tinto and the wider community. The business began as an earthmoving company and grew its service offerings to vegetation clearing, mulching and grinding soil, road construction and drainage operations.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
NSW

History Will Be Kind

“Our team is passionate about connecting the dots between communications, innovation and technology. We challenge each other every day to become the best thinkers, doers and collaborators in the business.” Emma-Jane Granleese, Founder & Managing Partner

History Will Be Kind (HWBK) is a creative communications agency, operating at the crossroads of public relations, social and digital. It brings together the agility of a startup alongside big agency capabilities, and is underpinned by an audience-centric, data-driven and channel-agnostic approach.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
ACT

HorizonOne Recruitment

“By building a business based around ethical values and our commitment to innovation and marketing, we are changing the conversation in recruitment from selling to true value-add consulting.“ Fiona Grimmer, Marketing Manager

HorizonOne Recruitment is disrupting the recruitment industry with a fresh approach that is leading the industry beyond transactional sales-based approaches. It’s driven by innovation, cutting-edge marketing, and an unerring commitment to its values around Recruitment Karma - the belief that great things will happen if you do good work and look after people.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
NSW

Hunter Rehabilitation and Health

“We strive to provide individual exercise programs that are safe, effective, and help our clients achieve a greater quality of life.” Ryan McCathie, Director

Hunter Rehabilitation and Health is an exercise physiology clinic that believes in the mantra that “exercise is medicine” and strives to empower individuals to achieve greater independence and functioning in their lives. It offers a wide range of exercise prescriptions for patients to assist in their rehabilitation.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
NSW

Icon by Design

“Our unique and highly innovative business model delivers exceptional value to our customers by providing timeless, solid timber furniture that you can afford to love.” David Light, Co-Founder

Icon by Design provides timeless Scandinavian and Australian-inspired crafted solid furniture at affordable prices. After launching online in July 2015, the father-and-son business has now three storefronts in Sydney and Melbourne, and an online store with more than 250 furniture items.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
TAS

IntegratedSCADA

“With a passion for technology and a commitment to sustainability, we aim to make a valuable contribution to the digital transformation industry.” Phillip Miller, Senior SCADA Engineer"

Established in 2013, IntegratedSCADA was formed from the market demand for a trusted and sustainable engineering service provider with a modern approach. Using innovative practices and technologies, it provides solutions to empower forward-thinking clients and organisations.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
TAS

Jettech

“Across Tasmania, we endeavour to provide our clients with an exceptional telecommunications solutions.” Sean Jeanneret, Managing Director

Jettech Networks is a Tasmanian company that builds telecommunication networks and tools for businesses. Providing customers with out of the box solutions, its small team holds a diverse range of skills and interests, including a mutual passion for the communications industry.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
TAS

Kingston Beach Dental

Kingston Beach Dental is an independent, family-owned and operated practice that was founded in 2007 by Dr Martyn Sweet. The business provides a range of general, family and cosmetic dental services and is passionate about providing quality and caring dentistry and service with integrity.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
NSW

L&A Social

“We bring brands to life through social media by helping our clients find their voice, build their tribe, and develop deeper connections with their customers.” Gina Lednyak, Founder and Chief Executive Officer

L&A Social is a full-service social media strategy and implementation agency which partners with some of the world’s largest and most dynamic brands. The team has a vision to create a new kind of workplace that fosters growth and opportunity for both employee and client.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
QLD

Lingua Franca

“We aim to provide exceptional learning opportunities and outcomes by combining a rock-solid path to language acquisition with the beauty of a lifestyle brand and the social capital of a not-for-profit.” Katrina Waugh, Owner/Founder

Founded by Katrina Waugh in 2008, Lingua Franca was built on an appreciation of the inherent richness and beauty of the French language. The team of tutors caters to adult learners with private or group lessons in a way that is fun, engaging and stress-free.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
VIC

Mantel Group

“Our vision is to be a technology pioneer, establishing brands around an opportunity in the market where technology can solve real problems.” Con Mouzouris, Chief Executive Officer

Mantel Group pioneers technologies to help businesses provide better user experiences for their customers. From digital services to data science, artificial intelligence and machine learning solutions, the business aims to tackle all types of problems with technology.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
VIC

Maree Pigdon Sewing Centre

“Sewing and teaching others how to sew is my lifelong passion. I want to continue to share that passion and extend my reach to more women around the world by teaching them how to sew.” Maree Pigdon, Owner

Maree Pigdon began sewing at just six years old and quickly developed expert skills. She turned that passion into a business when she launched the Maree Pigdon Sewing Centre in 1978. Four decades on, the centre continues to provide sewing classes, creative workshops and expert sewing tuition for students of all skill levels.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
VIC

Marketing Melodies

“We live and breathe music. We know that music has the ability to transport us to a time and place, to affect mood and behaviour, and move us.” Dean Cherny, Founder and Chief Executive Officer

Unleashing the power of music for brands, Marketing Melodies provides in-store music solutions and digital signage to more than 4,000 retail stores across Australia. It combines an intrinsic understanding of music with a customised approach that matches the tastes and aspirations of the customers to the retail brand.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
TAS

Maydena Bike Park

“We want to provide a safe, fun and supportive experience for our guests while protecting, showcasing and enhancing our natural environment.” Simon French, Director

Inspired by the natural beauty of its Tasmanian location, Simon French operates Maydena Bike Park - a gravity-focused mountain bike park catering to guests of all abilities from families through to elite riders. Developed through world heritage forests, it boasts a network of 80km of downhill trails, where riders can let gravity do (most of) the work.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
VIC

Mitchell Harris Wines

“We aim to craft wines that display distinctive varietal expression and reflect individual vineyards, vintage and regional character. We take our customers on a journey from grapevine to glass.” Alicia Linley, Managing Director and Owner

Mitchell Harris Wines is a winemaking business that not only shares its own crafted wines, but other regional wines through an urban cellar door and wine bar. Inspired by local growers and farmers, Mitchell Harris Wines aims to create high-quality wine with a local story behind the label.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
NSW

Modibodi

Eliminating the need for costly and uncomfortable single-use hygiene products, Modibodi is a protective apparel brand for menstruation and incontinence leaks, sweat, odour and more. Modibodi’s patented fibre technology hopes to put an end to embarrassing mishaps and provide an eco-conscious alternative to disposable hygiene.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
SA

Mollydooker Wines

In the heart of South Australia’s Mclaren Vale, Mollydooker Wines is making waves in the industry by bringing innovative techniques and an uncompromising commitment to providing exceptional quality wine at an affordable price. This family-owned winery, led by Sarah Marquis as Chief Winemaker, produces 70,000 to 100,000 cases annually and exports 80 percent of it.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
ACT

New Level Landscapes

New Level Landscapes prides itself on creating outdoor spaces tailored to clients’ requirements, using the highest quality products so the job only needs to be done once in a lifetime. The team focuses on both the current and planned use of the space to increase the value of the property and the client's time spent in the garden.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
VIC

Next Facilities Group

“We deliver best practice hygienic and environmentally conscious cleaning systems and innovations to help businesses, people and our planet.” Steven Buchler, Managing Director

Next Facilities Group provides quality cleaning systems that are sustainable and environmentally friendly. They aim to disrupt typical industry practices and provide their clients with the best possible environment for staff to perform.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
NT

Northern Trade Solutions

Formed in September 2010, Northern Trade Solutions started with four tradies and a dream to reshape the local construction industry by providing an integrated, solutions-focused, multi-trade company to all-size projects in the Northern Territory. Their vision was to create a company where every project brings value to clients.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
VIC

Nutricare

Nutricare creates organic, natural adhesive strips for wounds using the highest quality, sustainable ingredients available. Inspired by his son’s sensitivity to typical wound solutions, Founder James Dutton set out to create a natural product that is environmentally conscious and cost-effective.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
NSW

Office Hub

“We are a home-grown Aussie business with one simple goal: to revolutionise the way people rent office space around the world.” Grant Philipp, Founder & Chief Executive Officer

Office Hub is an online marketplace that offers flexible office space such as shared offices, coworking and serviced offices in one place. Passionate about the business benefits of shared working spaces, the team aims to help people around the world achieve more.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
SA

Oranje Creative

“The marketing landscape has never been as diverse and as challenging as it is today. It demands agility and innovation, and Oranje Creative delivers both.” Melinda Parent, Creative Director

Oranje Creative is an advertising and brand design studio tailored to satisfy the demands of today’s dynamic communications landscape. It provides access to a pool of communications specialists across all disciplines, without all the overheads.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
QLD

Orbitz Elevators

Orbitz Elevators are experts in the supply, installation, maintenance, repair and modernisation of elevators and escalators. Proudly 100 percent Australian owned and operated, Orbitz Elevators aims to provide the highest quality products and services across Australia and Papua New Guinea.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
ACT

Parbery Consulting

“Our deep expertise working with and in government agencies gives us an unparalleled competitive advantage, which has seen us become an alternative to the big national and international consulting firms.” Kylie Burnett, Partner and Owner

Led by Kylie Burnett and Nick Chapman, Parbery Consulting is a boutique management consulting firm that works closely with government agencies to advise them on a range of matters, such as business improvement, project and program management, change management, financial modelling and economic analysis.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
NSW

Park on King

“With airport parking traditionally being a transactional purchase, our goal is to go above and beyond customers’ expectations and deliver exceptional value in their pre-flight experience.” Steve Savelle, Director

Established in March 2018, Park on King is an airport parking facility in Mascot, Sydney, that caters to over 40 million passengers who travel through Sydney Airport annually. It aims to set a new benchmark in airport parking, with a focus on cutting-edge technology, reasonable prices and premium customer care.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
SA

Peripheral Blue

“Our mission is to provide Australian companies with the legal and business advisory services they need to effectively run their businesses. Ultimately, we want to become their trusted thought partners.” Mellissa Larkin, Founder/Managing Director

After nearly 20 years in the legal industry, Mellissa Larkin knew that the traditional legal model was broken and there had to be a better way. In 2016, she founded Peripheral Blue with the aim of disrupting the legal and professional services industries by giving clients access to top tier, responsive legal and advisory services in a flexible and affordable way.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
TAS

Petterwood Orthopaedics

“We are looking to create a world-class orthopaedic practice that uses innovative and state-of-the-art technology with a focus on customised patient care.” Emma Petterwood, Co-Founder & General Manager

Founded in 2016, Petterwood Orthopaedics is a specialist orthopaedic practice that provides care to Hobart and beyond. It strives to give customers a world-class orthopaedic experience by providing innovative medical technologies, customised to each individual patient’s needs. This patient-centred approach allows locals to access all necessary services, particularly for hip and knee replacement, in one place.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
SA

Physio Fit Adelaide

Physio Fit Adelaide strives to give customers the best experience by creating an environment that is changing health care experiences for the better. The business decided to move away from traditional healthcare practices and deliver unique hospitality and comfort facilities, such as complimentary herbal tea, premium coffee and massage chairs for its customers while they wait.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
NSW

Playfair Visa and Migration Services

“As the world globalises, unprecedented numbers of people are moving across borders. Government immigration processes are unresponsive, which is fueling anxiety. We aim to humanise the process and create solutions.” Petra Playfair, Founder & Chief Executive Officer

Playfair offers visa and migration services to skilled individuals, executives, multinationals and refugees seeking to live in the Australasian or Schengen zones. Founded 30 years ago by Petra Playfair, the business initially advised executives and private firms, though held the long-term vision of also advising refugees seeking a safe haven.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
SA

Premier Health Care

“Our mission is to provide the care and services needed for our residents to live their best life by focusing on overarching wellness and delivering exemplary person-centred care”. Viv Padman, Executive Director

Caring for the elderly is something husband and wife duo, Viv and Florence Padman, have in common. They created Premier Health Care to provide quality aged care and enrich customers’ lives through exceptional nursing, caring and catering services, all in luxurious living environments.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
VIC

Red Gum BBQ

“We're here to be a different kind of business – one that can be proud of how it exists in the world and of the BBQ trail it leaves behind as it forges ahead.” Melissa Goffin, Managing Director and Owner

Red Gum BBQ is a barbecue and beer hall in Red Hill, Victoria, well known and loved for its authentic Southern-style food, Victorian craft beer and regional wines. In a former truck mechanic’s warehouse, diners can watch pitmasters expertly prepare meat across three giant smokers.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
SA

Refuel Creative

“We help businesses grow, scale, and compete on a global market as painlessly as possible through offering a unique blend of business and marketing insight with technology know-how and support.” Ryan Jones, Managing Director

Refuel Creative is a marketing and technology company, led by Managing Director Ryan Jones. It provides businesses of any size clarity on where they’re making their money, what is and isn’t growing, and their return on investment.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
QLD

Reload Media

“For more than ten years, we’ve partnered with countless businesses to create digital marketing strategies that achieve great results.” Alexandra Gannon, General Manager

Reload Media is a digital marketing agency focused on intimately understanding its clients’ business and developing customised marketing strategies to meet their business goals. Tactics include overarching digital strategy, pay-per-click marketing, search engine optimisation, social media and everything in between.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
SA

Riot Wine Co

“We want to create fresher and cleaner quality wine for our customers in a way that is convenient and environmentally friendly.” Joe Cook, Co-Founder and Managing Director

Aimed at reinventing the wine experience, Riot Wine Co produces wine in stainless-steel kegs and offers a range of quality wines in 250ml cans. Co-Founders, Joe Cook and Tom O’Donnell were inspired to create a unique wine experience, making wine more portable and eliminating the need for glassware, and providing a more sustainable product.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
SA

Roaming Zen

“Our vision is to build a community through the movement of barre, pilates and yoga, motivating and supporting people on their fitness and wellness path.” Jeni Watson, Business Owner

Roaming Zen started as a casual business hosting wine and yoga events in the vineyards of the Adelaide Hills. When demand reached an all time high, owner Jeni Watson launched Roaming Zen Barre, Pilates & Yoga Studio.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
NT

Sea Darwin

“Our mission has always been conservation through experience. We show visitors our fascinating history and stunning wildlife and we provide a connection with nature and marine conservation for them.” Jim Smith, Director

Sea Darwin is a marine-based tourism company providing tours and cruises of Darwin Harbour and Bare Sand Island. Supporting ecologically sustainable tourism, the team is fostering environmental and cultural understanding, appreciation and conservation. The tours include an enchanting visit to the nesting grounds of the flatback sea turtles.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
SA

Sea Dragon Lodge

“We want to showcase the beauty of Kangaroo Island to our guests, while creating unique memories that will last a lifetime.” Steve Lane, Proprietor

With a mutual love of travel, husband and wife duo Steve and Gail Lane opened Sea Dragon Lodge, a luxury boutique retreat on Kangaroo Island in South Australia. Selecting the best features from the many great hotels they experienced during their travels, the team has created a unique Australian experience in a five-star setting.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
NSW

Shine Drink

Shine Drink offers a range of nootropic beverages, healthy, low-sugar drinks aimed at helping people think brighter, and feel more productive. Nootropics are ingredients to fuel the mind, in a similar way that probiotics (found in Kombucha) are good for the gut.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
QLD

Simmons Livingstone and Associates

“We pride ourselves on providing the very best in financial services and advice to both individuals and businesses.” Kris Simmons, Director

Simmons Livingstone and Associates is a professional accounting and financial planning firm working to break the traditional model of accounting services. The company provides effective accounting, financial and tax agent advice to both businesses and individuals.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
SA

Society Marketing Communications

Society was born out of a need to change the future of public relations and marketing agencies from being profit and awards focused to becoming more human-centric. Founder Dena Vassallo created the marketing and PR business in 2017 with the promise of delivering business impact for its clients.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
NT

Solve My Claim

“After 24 years in the insurance claims industry, I saw far too many instances of people being poorly treated, so we now aim to do something to make a difference.” David Keane, Chief Executive Officer

Solve My Claim works with consumers trying to navigate insurance claims who are all too often caught in difficult situations that they cannot understand. Solve My Claim takes social justice seriously and exists to support all Australians in respect to their insurance claims.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
NSW

Sonder

Sonder is a personal safety monitoring and response company, founded and led by proven performers from across the military, government and top-tier technology companies. The business uses cutting-edge technology to mobilise spare capacity among ex and off-duty emergency services personnel to make safety and support services accessible to everyone.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
TAS

Southern Wild Distillery

Based in Devonport, Southern Wild Distillery produces spirits, primarily gins, using locally grown and produced ingredients wherever possible. The business’ vision is to create alcoholic spirits with a ‘Tasmanian spirit’. Sold under the brand Dasher + Fisher, the products celebrate small local growers and the beautiful seasonal imperfections of real, local ingredients.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
NSW

Sparrowly Group

“Our key strength lies in our ability to provide people-centred solutions that are focused on helping businesses seize opportunities and do what they do best.” Giovanna Lever, Managing Director

Sparrowly Group is a leader in agile change management, adept at delivering commercial and social results for its clients. They work with clients to develop an integrated approach to commercial strategy, data analysis, stakeholder management and negotiation, marketing and development programs.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
QLD

STEM Punks Ventures

STEM Punks provides world-leading STEM education programs for students and teachers in primary and secondary schools with learning outcomes linked to the curriculum. Its programs are developed to enable a mindset of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship to inspire tomorrow's innovators.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
QLD

Street Science

Born out of a need to change the traditional way of teaching science, Steve Liddell founded Street Science in 2012. The team creates a range of powerful demonstrations, workshops and stage shows with a focus on engaging and inspiring students to study the senior sciences.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
SA

Sullivan Consulting

“Our vision is to bring a fresh, digitally driven and client-focused recruitment alternative to the Adelaide market.” Andrew Sullivan, Managing Director

Inspired to break the mould of traditional recruitment agencies, Andrew Sullivan founded Sullivan Consulting in 2017. With a creative and innovative approach to meet their clients needs, the team creates bespoke video job advertisements and targeted social media advertising to find the perfect fit.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
QLD

The Compounding Lab

“We are a passionate and dedicated pharmacy and health professionals team, intent on creating wellness by tailoring individual treatment, using pure ingredients and innovative therapies.” Mary-Louise Condon, Owner and Head Clinical Pharmacist

The Compounding Lab collaborates with mainstream medical and health mind practitioners to provide prescribed personalised vitamins and nutrients for clients and create optimum wellness in their health journey. The company was built with the vision to create wellness solutions, anti-ageing formulas and longevity protocols for the community.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
QLD

The Doctor’s Kitchen Australia

“Our main goal is to prevent disease, maximise quality of life and keep patients out of hospital, while setting them up for success with the assistance of doctors.” Dr Phillip Wuth, CEO

The Doctor's Kitchen Australia offers a doctor-prescribed medical weight loss meal program. Aiming to reduce the prevalence of obesity, diabetes and lifestyle-based diseases, this business works with Australian general practitioners to address these illnesses in at-risk patients before they even become apparent.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
SA

The Duke of Brunswick Hotel

“Inspired by the social disconnectedness of the community, we wanted to strip this pub back to what it once was - a place of belonging and community.” Simone Dougal, Chief Executive Officer

Originally built in 1858, The Duke of Brunswick Hotel is a socially inclusive and diverse venue in the heart of Adelaide. Led by Simone Dougal, the venue has become a community hub creating economic and social benefits to the Adelaide community.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
ACT

The Markets Wanniassa

“We provide easy access to handmade Australian-designed products, and give creators with a community-oriented platform a place to showcase and sell their goods.” Fiona Lester, Co-Owner

Inspired by the community atmosphere of weekend markets where she sold her handmade creations, Fiona Lester was drawn to the idea of a brick-and-mortar store to give herself and other talented creators a more permanent space to showcase their craft. Two years on, The Markets Wanniassa is now a bustling retail space featuring an extensive range of Australian-made products.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
VIC

The Solar Power Co.

“We empower Australian families, communities and businesses to choose a sustainable future with confidence.” David Cervelli, Founder and Managing Director

The Solar Power Co. helps Australian families, communities and businesses save on their energy costs by switching to solar-generated and other renewable energy solutions. It works with customers to provide access to government incentives - financial and other - and education to make more informed decisions about their energy options.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
NSW

Tiny Terrors

“Our mission is to equip parents with the tools and strategies they need to encourage positive behaviours with their children, and to support them in maintaining a more functional lifestyle.” Funda Yolal, Director

Filling the gap in the market for more pragmatic and quality in-home therapy, Tiny Terrors is a mobile psychology service providing families with compassionate parenting and behavioural support. Proudly owned and operated by dedicated psychologist and mother-of-three, Funda Yolal, Tiny Terrors facilitates a positive parenthood journey by sharing evidence-based, professional techniques and strategies.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
VIC

TM Insight

TM Insight is a specialist consultancy firm bringing together industry experience in supply chain optimisation, property advisory and project management to help businesses adapt and thrive.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
NT

Top End Race

“We strive to deliver to our customers the most efficient and timely service in the electrical and mechanical field while maintaining value, integrity and safety”. Andrew Armstrong, Director

Top End Race is a Northern Territory owned and operated business that specialises in electrical and mechanical trade services. With a team of more than 40 highly skilled and motivated trade and support personnel, the business provides electrical, refrigeration and air conditioning services to a clientele ranging from pubs and restaurants to schools, medical practices, farms and the industry sector.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
QLD

TreeTop Challenge

“We aim to create unforgettable memories for our customers, while becoming a benchmark for zipline operators and the wider tourism industry.” David Taylor, General Manager

Led by the Taylor family, the TreeTop Challenge offers a zip-line tour and a treetop adventure through the forests of Queensland’s Tamborine Mountain, Currumbin and the Sunshine Coast. Striving to create long-lasting memories for their customers, they monitor global trends in adventure tourism to ensure they continue to fly ahead of the market.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
QLD

Trusted Pest Management

“We provide customers with pest management solutions and a pest-free environment, while balancing our commitment to our social and environmental responsibilities.” Tudor Vasile, Director

With more than 20 years’ experience in the pest control industry, brothers Tudor & Wesley Vasile lead Trusted Pest Management. The company specialises in providing a family-friendly pest control service that keeps homes and businesses pest-free all year long.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
NT

Universal Site Monitoring

Darwin-based startup, Universal Site Monitoring produces Australian designed and manufactured safety monitoring devices through Internet of Things technology for industrial businesses. USM aims to disrupt the market by building the next generation of safety devices and transforming worker protection on a global scale.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
ACT

Water Tight Canberra

Owner Tom Martin sought to defy the lazy tradesperson stereotype and frequent second-rate work standard within the industry through his customer-first plumbing, drainage and gas-fitting company, Water Tight Canberra. Constant communication with clients as well as team training and collaboration form the backbone of this small yet successful business.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
NSW

Whitehat Agency

“Through specialised and innovative digital marketing strategies individually tailored to every client, we strive to redefine digital success and create new opportunities for business growth.” Shuey Shujab, Chief Executive Officer

Founder Shuey Shujab created Whitehat Agency, an all-round digital marketing service embedding values of ethics, innovation and excellence, to help small businesses expand their reach, brand awareness and marketing capability.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
SA

Wines by Geoff Hardy

“In our multi-generational family wine business, we don’t confine excellence to our vineyards or our winery but we relentlessly pursue excellence across every aspect of our business everyday.” Richard Dolan, Chief Executive Officer

Wines by Geoff Hardy is a family-owned and operated business run by Geoff Hardy, a fifth-generation member of one of Australia’s most famous wine families, the Hardys. Today, Wines by Geoff Hardy produces around 1.7 million bottles of premium wines each year, all produced in the country’s ‘wine capital', South Australia - which is home to 80% of all premium Australian wine.

2019 Telstra Medium and Making Waves
NT

Winnellie Hydraulics

“As a business, we share our customers’ focus on quality delivery, continuous improvement to safety in the workplace and an ongoing commitment to reducing our environmental impact.” Max Nicholson, General Manager

Winnellie Hydraulics is a family owned and operated business, providing specialised hydraulic, pneumatic and gas process support to the energy, mining and industrial sectors. Based in Darwin, the business specialises in the supply of critical daily needs as well as maintenance, calibration and other specialist support services.

2019 Telstra Small and Succeeding
ACT

Workplace Research Associates

“It is incredibly satisfying to offer clients an evidence-based approach and advice that will have a positive impact, not only on the business but also on individuals within the workplace.” Dr Julie West, Principal

Established in 1996 and led by Dr Julie West, Workplace Research Associates is an organisational psychology consulting firm with the aim of being the ‘psychology behind better business’. It researches best practice in all aspects of people at work, and consults with businesses to help them get the best out of their workforce.

2019 Telstra Emerging and Energised
VIC

Yea Peppercorn Hotel

“We pride ourselves on providing our guests with an authentic country escape that is sustainable and eco-friendly.” Kelly Petering, Owner

Inspired by the love of travel and nature, Yea Peppercorn Hotel is a beautiful historic hotel that aims to deliver an authentic and unique experience for travellers and the local community. Built in the 1860s, the hotel is a treasure trove of original features, with the ambience and warmth of a bygone era. It features an a-la-carte restaurant, garden and boutique accommodation.