Finalists named in Export Awards - Australian Export Awards - Brief Article

Business Asia, Nov, 2000

With only a month to go until the gala 2000 Australian Export Awards ceremony, the businesses competing to be the best exporters in their field have been revealed.

A RECORD number of finalists have been named for the 2000 Australian Export Awards.

Highlighting the growing number of savvy exporters throughout the country, 67 exporters from throughout Australia have made it into the finals, the biggest field ever in the event's 37 year history.

As well as competing in their own categories, all of the finalists are vying for the prestigious title of DHL Exporter of the Year. The finalists have faced a tough battle to make it to these last stages, with all the businesses having to win their individual state or territory export awards to qualify.

The 2000 Australian Export Awards will culminate in a gala dinner and presentation at the ballroom of The Westin Sydney Hotel on 12 December.

The Award's long tradition of attracting top-level guests has continued this year, with Federal Trade Minister Mark Vaile guest of honour and keynote speaker at the presentation ceremony.

Vaile will mix shoulders with Australia's leading exporting businesses, with more than 1,000 guests expected at the function.

The Awards aim to recognise the major contributions exporters make to the creation of wealth and jobs in Australia.

The cream of Australia's exporters have made it to this year's finals, with local and international business giants showing their support by sponsoring different categories.

This year's categories are:

* Auslndustry Emerging Exporter Award;

* Austrade Arts/Entertainment Award;

* Australian Business Ltd Services Award;

* Australian Made Large Advanced Manufacturer Award;

* Columbus Line Agribusiness Award;

* Commonwealth Bank Small to Medium Manufacturer Award;

* Hewlett-Packard Information Industries Award;

* IDP Education Australia Education Award; and

* Melbourne Port Corporation Minerals Award.

The overall winner is chosen from the category winners and crowned DHL Australian Exporter of the Year.

Last year's Awards, held in Melbourne, were a tremendous success, with Tasmania's Pipers Brook Vineyard taking out the top prize. Prime Minister John Howard was last year's special guest.

For more information about the 2000 Australian Export Awards, phone Anne-Marie Flynn of The Charlton Group on 02 9955 6299.