Intereach was the toast of the Deniliquin Business Excellence Awards on Friday night.

After winning two other awards during the gala awards evening, the local organisation was named the 2025 Business of the Year.

The annual event, hosted by the Deniliquin Business Chamber at the Deniliquin RSL Club, recognised and honoured many exceptional local people and their businesses.

With more than 20 award categories, a crowd of more than 200 people attended with the aim of celebrating local business.

This year’s event shone a spotlight on innovation, leadership, and contributions to the local economy and community life.

Other awards claimed by Intereach were Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion, and Employer of Choice (21 employees and over).

Representing Intereach on the night were general managers Sarah Matthews and Felicity Whorlow, along with local staff and members of the Intereach board.

Intereach co-CEO Yvette Buhagiar said winning Business of the Year award was a proud and emotional moment for Intereach, and recognition of both its deep roots in Deniliquin and the positive impact their services have across the region – from childcare and NDIS access to family supports and aged care.

“We are incredibly proud to be recognised among such a strong field of nominees,” Mrs Buhagiar said.

“These awards are a reflection of the dedication, passion, and community spirit of our Deniliquin staff.”

Founded in Deniliquin 52 years ago, the organisation’s reach now extends across regional NSW and Victoria, but our heart remains firmly in the communities where we first began.

“What an incredible and unexpected surprise,” Mrs Buhagiar said.

“This award, coming from the community where our story began, makes it even more special.

“It’s a testament to the passion and commitment of our staff and volunteers, whose dedication allows us to grow and continue serving our communities.”

The Employer of Choice award recognises Intereach’s commitment to being a destination employer, ensuring staff are supported, valued, and empowered to deliver high-quality services to their communities.

This category saw tough competition from other outstanding local organisations.

“Being named Employer of Choice means so much to us because it reflects the experience of our people,” said Ms Whorlow, who is Intereach general manager of people, quality and risk.

“We strive to create a workplace where staff feel supported, respected, and proud of the work they do – and this award is a credit to every member of our team who brings that culture to life every day.”

The Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion award acknowledges Intereach’s work to create a culturally safe and welcoming environment, including initiatives such as its Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan, Reconciliation Action Plan, Aboriginal Health programs, and Settlement Engagement and Transition Support (SETS) services.

“It was such a great honour to receive this award,” Ms Whorlow said.

“Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of how we work at Intereach, and this recognition means so much to everyone in our team.

“I’m so proud of the way our staff, volunteers, and partners create spaces where everyone feels safe, respected, and welcome.”

Intereach also applauded chair, Rob Brown, who was named Outstanding Business Leader on the night - a well-deserved recognition of his steady leadership, community focus, and long-standing commitment to strengthening the region.

The organisation made sure to congratulate all fellow nominees and winners, and thank the Deniliquin Business Chamber, event sponsors, and judges for their support and recognition.

The 2025 Deniliquin Business of the Year is proudly sponsored by the Deniliquin Pastoral Times.

• For a full list of winners, turn to page 5.

• Out and About at the Business Awards, page 6.

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