Australia
Dr. Girish Basavaraj Named Charters Towers Business Person of the Year at 2026 Business Excellence Awards: The Charters Towers Region celebrated its thriving business community at the 2026 Business Excellence Awards, with Indian-origin entrepreneur and healthcare professional Dr Girish Basavaraj receiving the prestigious Business Person of the Year award.
Hosted by Charters Towers Regional Council at Leahton Park on May 23, the gala event brought together more than 130 business leaders, entrepreneurs, industry representatives, and community stakeholders to recognize outstanding achievements across the region’s business sector.
The awards showcased the innovation, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit that continue to drive economic growth throughout the Charters Towers Region. A total of 31 nominees were recognized across multiple categories, highlighting the strength and diversity of local enterprises.
Mayor Liz Schmidt praised the quality of nominations and emphasized the importance of celebrating local success stories.
“The calibre of nominations this year was exceptional, and it is inspiring to see so many local businesses thriving and continuing to invest in our region,” Mayor Schmidt said. “These awards are about recognising hard work, celebrating success, and acknowledging the vital role our business community plays in shaping the future of Charters Towers.”
The recognition of Dr. Basavaraj as Business Person of the Year reflects his leadership, dedication, and contribution to both the business and community landscape of the region. The award honors individuals who demonstrate excellence in entrepreneurship, innovation, and business leadership while making a meaningful impact on the local economy.
Other major winners included:
- New & Emerging Business – Here in the Towers
- Micro Business – Hidden Valley Cabins & Tours
- Small Business – Bodyfix Physiotherapy
- Medium & Large Business – Charters Towers Kids ELC
- Employer of Choice – GoldCity Dental Centre
- People’s Choice Award – GoldCity Dental Centre
- Young Entrepreneur of the Year – Daniel Sumpton
- Business of the Year – Bodyfix Physiotherapy
Mayor Schmidt noted that the awards celebrate not only individual achievements but also the broader vision driving regional development.
“These awards recognize the people and businesses who are investing in our region, creating opportunities, and helping to grow and diversify our local industries,” she said. “Council is proud to support our local business community, encourage investment, and promote the strengths of the Charters Towers Region.”
The awards come at a time of continued economic growth for the region. Recent figures show the Charters Towers Region generates a Gross Regional Product of approximately $1.053 billion and supports nearly 5,430 local jobs. The region is home to around 1,253 businesses, with 98 percent classified as small businesses employing fewer than 20 people.
These figures underscore the vital role played by entrepreneurs and business leaders such as Dr. Girish Basavaraj in strengthening the local economy, creating employment opportunities, and contributing to long-term regional prosperity.
The evening concluded with a celebration of collaboration, innovation, and community spirit, reinforcing the Charters Towers Region’s reputation as a vibrant and growing hub for business excellence.
Charters Towers Regional Council congratulated all nominees and award recipients, acknowledging their outstanding contributions to the continued success and economic development of the region.
