The awards enable Oberon to recognise the businesses and individuals that have made shopping, eating and every other facet of our town experience easier.

The friendliness of Oberon is reflected by our businesses. It is important to show appreciation for the businesses and individuals who have made a special effort to be extra friendly, accessible, punctual or helpful.

Oberon residents are urged to submit nominations and Oberon businesses are encouraged to nominate themselves, individuals in their business or other businesses for an award.

Nominations will close on October 31.

The Oberon Review will publish a large feature on the businesses that have been nominated two weeks before the announcement of the awards.

The award presentation will be held on December 3.

The Oberon Review is also sponsoring a People's Choice Award, and the voting coupon for this award will accompany the feature.

The awards are aimed at both businesses and specific employees, and there are five categories for each.

The Business categories are:

1.Business exhibiting pride in business presentation (e.g. premises, staff, service, etc).

2. Business opened in the last 24 months or under new ownership in the last 24 months.

3. Outstanding business situated in Oberon’s industrial area.

4. Business providing diverse employment opportunities.

5. Business providing outstanding community service.

The Employee categories are:

1. Outstanding service provided by an employee in retail.

2. Outstanding service provided by an employee in an office.

3. Outstanding service provided by an employee in hospitality.

4. Outstanding work by an apprentice.

5. Outstanding work by an employee trades person.

Nomination forms have been printed in the Oberon Review, and have also been mailed to all Oberon businesses. Collection boxes are placed at the Oberon Post Office, Arrows Newsagency and the Oberon Pharmacy. This is a great opportunity to recognise Oberon businesses and employees who have contributed to our town.