Business Excellence Award winners announced
Greater Shepparton Business Network
RECOGNITION... Pictured are the 2025 Greater Shepparton Business Network Hall of Fame inductees Bertolis Farm Machinery/Bertoli Group co-owners Jack Collins and Paul Bertoli. Photo: Emma Harrop
2025 HALL OF FAME WINNER
Bertoli Group
Bertoli Group honoured
in Greater Shepparton Business Network Hall of Fame A SHEPPARTON success story spanning nearly five decades has been celebrated with Bertoli Group’s induction into the Greater Shepparton Business Network Hall of Fame. From modest beginnings in 1976—when and John Berends Implements. Its reputation founder Paul Bertoli started with just a Holden for quality service and customer care laid the Ute, a toolbox and a vision—the company has foundation for steady growth. By 1986 the business had relocated to grown into one of northern Victoria’s leading Benalla Road to accommodate a larger agricultural machinery dealers. Originally known as Bertoli’s Garage in workshop and display yard. Around this time, Keppel Street, the business serviced both Jack Collins joined as an apprentice diesel cars and farm machinery before evolving into mechanic, later becoming Paul’s business Bertoli Farm Machinery in 1984, becoming an partner. Together, they have steered the authorised dealer for Kubota Tractors Australia company with the same values that defined its
early years: quality, service and value for money. A purpose-built dealership opened on Numurkah Road in 2005, followed by further expansion into Albury (2016) and Benalla (2017), creating The Bertoli Group, now employing nearly 50 staf f across three sites. The company’s dealerships supply premium brands including Kubota, Fendt, Massey Ferguson, Iseki, Krone and Hardi, reinforcing its reputation for excellence. Beyond business growth, Paul Bertoli has been a long-time advocate for the agricultural
machinery industry through the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce, where he serves as Vice President and Chair of the Farm, Industrial and Machinery Dealers Association Committee. His commitment to apprenticeships and community development continues to strengthen the Goulburn Valley region. As the Bertoli Group approaches its 50th anniversary in 2026, its Hall of Fame induction recognises a legacy built on vision, integrity and service to regional Australia.
Thank you Shepparton! Paul & Gail Bertoli, Jack & Leanne Collins and the entire Bertolis Group team take this special opportunity to thank everyone involved in the Greater Shepparton SPC Business Excellence Awards Greater Shepparton Business Network Hall Of Fame category.
SHEPPARTON
198/200 Numurkah Rd (03) 5821 3299
BENALLA
183 Bridge St (03) 5762 3633
ALBURY
520 Dallinger Rd (02) 6025 5390
The Adviser. Australia No.1:1789 Wednesday, November 5, 2025 – Page 17
Business Excellence Award winners announced
Greater Shepparton Business Network
EXCELLENCE... Proudly presented by the Greater Shepparton Business Network (GSBN) with support from Naming Rights Sponsor SPC Global, the 2025 Greater Shepparton SPC Business Excellence Awards recognises the strength, diversity and resilience of local businesses. Pictured are GSBN representatives, back from from left: Kyra Mutton (Administration Assistant), Sally Tremellen, Michaela Sargeant, Jac McCarty (Awards Chair), Wendy Crow, Neer Kaur and Tracy Lyle (Executive Officer). Front row: GSBN President Stephen Schneider and Vice-President Wayne Sutton. Photo: Emma Harrop
Celebrating Business Excellence in Greater Shepparton THE 2025 Greater Shepparton SPC Business Excellence Awards Gala Dinner was a night to remember — a sold-out celebration of innovation, teamwork and success across the region’s thriving business community. Now in its 28th year, the event welcomed 500 guests who swapped uniforms and hi-vis for suits and sequins, gathering to recognise the achievements of local businesses that make Greater Shepparton such a powerhouse of enterprise and community spirit.
With a record 467 nominations across 14 categories and 87 finalists, this year’s awards showcased the incredible diversity of our local industry, from mechanics and animal day-care providers to health and wellness professionals, cleaners and collectors. The evening also saw Bertoli Group inducted into the prestigious Greater Shepparton Business Network Hall of Fame, joining a distinguished list of past recipients whose contributions have shaped the region’s economic landscape.
The Business Excellence Awards, proudly presented by SPC Global and hosted by the Greater Shepparton Business Network (GSBN), were made possible thanks to the support of local sponsors, judges, and volunteers, each playing an important part in honouring excellence across the community. Inside these pages of The Shepparton Adviser, a proud media sponsor of the awards, we celebrate the night's winners, reflecting on the passion, resilience, and drive that define our local business community.
A big thank you to our entire team who helped us win the Excellence in Business Award – Professional Services Category
“We’re thriled to represent our industry” – Kathy Beer
WELcome
to our wholesome Early Learning Centre
EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS – TRADE SERVICES
Watters Electrical Pictured from left are Beau Ash and Matt Hanlon from Watters Electrical and Justin Bice from the Goulburn Murray Credit Union (GMCU). Photo: Emma Harrop
Enquiries for a career in early learning are welcome. 617 Wyndham St, Shepparton
03 5822 2372
www.wyndhamearlylearning.com.au
Learning through play & discovery... Celebrating 9 years of service to the Goulburn Valley
Page 18 – The Adviser Australia No.1:1789 Wednesday, November 5, 2025
Watters Electrical was founded in 1957 and is the largest and longest standing electrical contracting company operating in regional Victoria and southern New South Wales. With branches in Shepparton, Albury and Wangaratta, Watters proudly employs 250 people and
is one of the largest employers of apprentices in the region. Watters cover all aspects of the electrical industry including commercial, service, preventative maintenance, industrial, automation, renewables, civil, refrigeration, air conditioning, security, data and audio visual.
Business Excellence Award winners announced
Greater Shepparton Business Network
Total Tools Shepparton is a locally owned and operated family business that’s operated for over 10 years, servicing the Goulburn Valley and surrounding areas. They employ locals and put emphasis on “Old School Customer Service” from the time you walk through the front door to when you leave. Total Tools Shepparton support the community through donations and sponsorships and are a major partner of Movember.
Pictured L-R from Total Tools Shepparton are Michael Hotchkiss, Jackson Crawford, Haxhije and Ray Cox, and Andrew Mackie from Harvey Norman Shepparton. Photo: Emma Harrop
EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS – RETAIL SERVICES
Watters Electrical
Total Tools Shepparton
are proud to have won the Trade Services Award in this year’s Greater Shepparton SPC Business Excellence Awards. Thank you to our customers and staff for making this award win possible!
EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS – PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Wyndham Early Learning Pictured from left are Kathy Beer and Emily Thorp from Wyndham Early Learning and Aaron Brain from Shepparton BMW. Photo: Emma Harrop Wyndham Early Learning strive to provide the highest quality of care to not only the children, but the entire Wyndham Early Learning community including educators, support staff, suppliers and families alike. Wyndham Early Learning
are extremely proud of earning their exceeding rating through a rigorous Ratings & Assessment process. They are a local familyowned business who truly understands and provides what our community requires.
Left to right: Beau Ash and Matt Hanlon from Watters Electrical Commercial • Industrial • Domestic • Rural • Renewables Civil • CCTV Security • Audio-Visual • 24 Hour On-Call
Shepparton, Wangaratta, Albury VIC Reg # 4409 · NSW Reg # 253151C
www.watters.com.au
Contact Us 03 5821 3944
/WattersElectricalPtyLtd
shepparton@watters.com.au
@watters.electrical
19-35 New Dookie Rd, Shepparton
2025 WINNERS OF THE GREATER SHEPPARTON SPC BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS – RETAIL SERVICES CATEGORY
THANK-YOU TO SPC, THE SPONSORS AND OUR TOTAL TOOLS TEAM. WE ARE VERY PROUD TO HAVE WON THE RETAIL SERVICES CATEGORY. SHEPPARTON 46-52 BENALLA RD
(03) 5821 6400 shepparton@totaltools.com.au
ECHUCA 7-9 MURRAY VALLEY HWY (03) 4440 3000 sales.echuca@totaltools.com.au
LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED The Adviser. Australia No.1:1789 Wednesday, November 5, 2025 – Page 19
Greater Shepparton
Business Excellence Award winners announced
Business Network
EXCELLENCE IN INNOVATION
JMB Modular Buildings Pictured from left is Tobi Kennedy and Michael Sullivan from JMB Modular Buildings, Sally Tremellen from Greater Shepparton Business Network and James Briggs and Bailey Andersen from JMB Modular Buildings. Photo: Emma Harrop JMB Modular Buildings are a volumetric modular manufacturer, based in Shepparton and owned and managed by locals. Offering conventional building services for over 15 years as a registered commercial and domestic builder, in 2018 they pivoted the business founded with
foresight that the modular sector within the construction industry was rapidly growing and the way of the future. JMB Modular Buildings specialises in innovative and energy efficient modular buildings (commercial and domestic) that are greener, faster and smarter than a conventional build.
Greater Shepparton Business Network
EXCELLENCE IN CUSTOMER SERVICE – PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Fastsec Security Pictured L-R from Fastec Security are David Kelly, Dan Wilson, Risk Vosper, Tayal (last name withheld) and Gary and Kam Sidhu and Kerrie Simpson-Thouliss from are-able. Photo: Emma Harrop Based in the local community and spreading their services across Victoria and southern NSW, Fastsec provides a wide range of security services tailored to the needs of individual and varied clients. This year the business is celebrating
its 10th year in operation. Their highly trained team can be found working across a wide range of events, licensed venues, medical centres, shopping precincts and so much more, ensuring the safety and peace of mind of thousands of people every day.
EMERGING & MICRO BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
Shepparton Cleaning Service Pictured from left are Harley Constable and Kacey Morris from Shepparton Cleaning Service and Damien Cocks from the Greater Shepparton Business Centre. Photo: Emma Harrop Proudly locally owned and operated, Shepparton Cleaning Service provides professional cleaning solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial clients across the Goulburn Valley. The company’s vision is to transform how the community values clean and well-maintained spaces —
not just as a service, but as a standard of professionalism. With their relentless focus on customer outcomes, employee wellbeing, service quality, and integrating innovative technologies, Shepparton Cleaning Service continues to set the standard and lead the industry forward.
Vision of Excellence!
35+ years
To our dear Customers... We are so grateful and honoured. This recognition means so much to our small, family-run business. But the real thanks go to you. Your continued trust, loyalty, and support inspires us every single day to deliver the best care, advice, and service possible. From Ashley and Vanessa, thank you for being part of our family. We couldn’t have done it without you! You are the reason we wake up each morning, get dressed and are at the shop to serve you.
5821 0311
Shop 1, Tirana City Walk, 302 Wyndham St, Shepparton Mon-Fri 9am–5pm | Sat By appointment only
www.eyeshopshepparton.com.au Page 20 – The Adviser Australia No.1:1789 Wednesday, November 5, 2025
VISITOR EXPERIENCE OF THE YEAR
Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) Pictured from left are Gabriella Calandro from Shepparton Art Museum (SAM), Ingrid Thomas from Shepparton & Goulburn Valley, and Danny Lacy and Carmel Johnson from SAM. Photo: Emma Harrop Shepparton Art Museum is one of Australia’s leading art museums, and the third largest regional gallery in Victoria. Showcasing dynamic exhibitions and engaging programming for people of all ages, SAM inspires creativity and celebrates the unique stories of our region, attracting visitors from across Victoria and the country. Housing one of the nation’s most significant Australian ceramics collection and regional holdings of southeastern Indigenous art, SAM creates a space where visitors can experience world class art alongside work from the next generation of local creative
talent. SAM champions Shepparton as a cultural destination that embraces artistic excellence. In 2026, SAM proudly supports 90 years of collecting, a remarkable mission that honours its rich history and the visionaries who shaped its success. SAM looks ahead to an exciting new chapter that continues supporting creative innovation, forging meaningful connections with our community, and transforms lives through cultural experiences.
Business Excellence Award winners announced
Greater Shepparton Business Network
EXCELLENCE IN CUSTOMER SERVICE – RETAIL/HOSPITALITY SERVICES
EXCELLENCE IN CUSTOMER SERVICE – TRADE SERVICES
The Eye Shop Shepparton
5S5 Barbershop
Pictured from left is Wayne Sutton from the Shepparton Club and Vanessa and Ashley Madeira from The Eye Shop. Photo: Emma Harrop The Eye Shop Shepparton is a local family-owned optical business that has been operating in the Shepparton CBD since 2006. Owners Ashley and Vanessa Madeira strive to deliver thorough and friendly eye care. They use
the world’s best spectacle lenses and contact lenses. The Eye Shop stocks quality contemporary and fashionable spectacle frames and sunglasses. They aim to provide professional back up service, delivered with a smile!
Pictured is Jak MHD Zuher from 5S5 Barbershop and Adrienne Gledhill from MB&M. Photo: Emma Harrop Located in the heart of Mooroopna, 5S5 Barbershop is a local favourite known for its genuine service, friendly atmosphere, and exceptional craftsmanship. Owner and barber Jak has built more than just a barbershop – he’s created a welcoming space where everyone feels like family.
Whether it’s offering a bottle of water to those waiting, or greeting each customer with a warm smile, Jak’s approach to customer care is truly personal. His dedication to his craft and his clients has earned him a loyal following and a reputation for excellence across the Goulburn Valley.
Experience Industrial World’s award winning Excellence! Specialist in all things industrial. From the smallest o-ring to the largest bearing & housing. ✔ 100% Australian owned & operated ✔ Efficient freight & delivery connections ✔ Quality service & experience you can trust 77 Drummond Rd, Shepparton
Ph: 5831 8828 BEST MARKETING/ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN
Industrial World Shepparton
sales.shepparton@industrialworld.com.au Mon to Fri 8am – 5pm Sat 9am - 12pm Sun & Public Holidays CLOSED
Pictured are Josh Arthur from Hit FM and Rod Kilborn from Industrial World. Photo: Emma Harrop Industrial World, led by Rod Kilborn, is Australia’s only 100 per cent locally owned SKF distributor, proudly serving regional Victoria from Shepparton and Ballarat. Specialising in bearings, power transmission, lubrication, and engineering supplies, Industrial World partners with global brands like SKF, Optibelt, and Tsubaki to deliver
premium solutions to local industries. With nearly 50 years of family ownership, the business is driven by Rod’s passion for supporting regional manufacturing and engineering, offering expertise, reliability, and a commitment to keeping Australian industry moving.
BEARINGS • POWER TRANSMISSION • GREASE & LUBRICATION • BOLTS & FASTENERS • INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES The Adviser. Australia No.1:1789 Wednesday, November 5, 2025 – Page 21
Greater Shepparton
Business Excellence Award winners announced
Business Network
EXCELLENCE IN EXPORT MARKET DEVELOPMENT
Noumi
EXCELLENCE IN FOOD & AGRIBUSINESS
Pictured L-R from Noumi are Michael Perich (CEO), Mattew Bunn (Operations Lead), Gabrielle Hall (Logistics Coordinator), Paul Trewin (General Manager Operations Shepparton), Kirby Sprunt (Customer Service and Distribution Manager), Jennie Niblock (Distribution Coordinator), and Michaela Sargeant from GSBN. Photo: Emma Harrop For over a decade, Noumi’s long-life milk manufacturing business has been a significant and contributing member of the Greater Shepparton community, maintaining strong, vital ties with local dairy farmers, and operating with a commitment to healthier outcomes for its people, the community, and the planet. Known for brands like MILKLAB and Australia’s Own, Noumi's products are carefully processed right here in Shepparton by a dedicated, 300-strong local team, whose work supports a truly
global reach: Noumi’s high-quality products are exported to 24 countries across Asia Pacific and the Middle East, making the local facility a key player in showcasing Australian dairy excellence on the world stage. This collaborative culture - spanning the production floor, farming partnerships, and community initiatives - reflects Noumi’s vision of Imagining a Healthier Tomorrow, as they continue to deliver excellence in milk manufacturing while strongly giving back to the community it calls home.
Greater Shepparton Business Network
Provincial Food Group Pictured from left are Mark Morley and Tom Paterson from Provincial Food Group and Michael Perich from Noumi. Photo: Emma Harrop Provincial Food Group is a Shepparton-based, exportoriented manufacturer specialising in premium, valueadded meat products—from burgers and meatballs to innovative lines like Halal beef bacon. They combine small-batch agility with big-brand standards, partnering closely with retailers,
food service and emerging brands to co-develop products that meet exact specs. Proudly regional, Provincial Food Group turn smart process, craftsmanship and customer focus into delicious, scalable results.
Alex is a grade two physiotherapist working in the inpatient subacute rehabilitation ward at GV Health. She sees a wide variety of patients, including neurological, orthopaedic, and geriatric presentations. She is leading projects for optimising upper limb function and helping patients transition home and integrate back into the community through the ‘MCU at Home’ Program. Within her team, Alex helps deliver education and provide supervision to junior physio staff and uni students, sharing her passion for neuro rehab. Within the community, she coaches and competes in the international level for aerobic gymnastics, where she hopes to continue inspiring the next generation of athletes.
Young Professional of the Year ALEX LIACOS Physiotherapist
YOUNG PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR
Alex Liacos from Goulburn Valley Health Pictured accepting the award on behalf of Alex Liacos is Samantha Brownridge and Katie Taylor from La Trobe University.
We’re proud to celebrate Physiotherapist Alex Liacos from the Mary Coram Rehabilitation Unit, who has been named the winner of the SPC Business Excellence Awards – Young Professional of the Year.
Tarsha Brown brings creativity, care, and enthusiasm to every client she meets. As an apprentice, she’s passionate about learning and loves seeing her skills grow with each new challenge. Working alongside the talented team at Zest, Tarsha strives to make every client’s experience special, ensuring they leave the salon feeling confident, refreshed, and full of zest!
Alex’s achievement is a wonderful recognition of her dedication to her patients, her leadership in allied health, and her commitment to delivering outstanding care every day. This award also reflects the passion, professionalism and excellence shared across GV Health’s entire workforce. Congratulations, Alex, we’re so proud of you!
APPRENTICE/TRAINEE OF THE YEAR
Tarsha Brown of Zest Hairstylists Page 22 – The Adviser Australia No.1:1789 Wednesday, November 5, 2025
Pictured from left are Tarsha Brown from Zest Hairstylists and Lauren Orr from Apprenticeship Support Australia. Photo: Emma Harrop