A Sunshine Coast beachside restaurant director has been recognised with national business awards.
Bella Venezia boss Kristine Young claimed two gongs at the Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards in Sydney.
She was named champion in the restaurant category as well as champion influential woman.
Bella Venezia secured the top spot in the restaurant section after a panel assessed aspects of operations, including strategies, growth plans, financial performance, sustainability credentials, innovation, customer service quality and community support.
Ms Young’s recognition as champion influential woman was based on judges assessing aspects of operating a small business.
She praised the awards and she said she was proud of the restaurant she runs.
“The awards are a recognition of small businesses in regional Australia, where women are playing a major role in building resilience in the hospitality sector,” she said.
“It’s also further proof of the burgeoning food and wine scene outside of Australia’s capital cities.
“On the Sunshine Coast, overlooking the surf at Mooloolaba Beach, we’ve created a fine dining experience that rivals anything you’ll find in the capital cities.”
Young became Bella Venezia director in 2015 and has since helped the restaurant to multiple accolades, including from the Australian Good Food Guide, Restaurant and Catering Industry Awards, Sunshine Coast Business Awards and the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.
“The hospitality industry is a tough game, and with cost-of-living pressures impacting many businesses it’s important to recognise the role of women in the sector,” she said.
“Our focus on paddock-to-plate and port-to-plate means we’re creating a ripple effect in our local community by sourcing the freshest locally grown produce.”
Awards founder Steve Loe complemented Ms Young for her efforts.
“Being selected as a champion in this major program, from a national entrant pool of thousands, speaks volumes about the tenacity and leadership at Bella Venezia,” he said.
“The awards honour the nation’s most exceptional female leaders who are making an indelible mark on the small business sector.
“Kristine Young is now among a highly esteemed group of recognised champions and she should feel immensely proud of her achievements and her team.”
Ms Young said she was overwhelmed with the support and encouragement received by her team and her husband, fellow Bella Venezia director Todd Young.
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