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'Connected to community’: local businesses make lasting impression on industries

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A handful of select businesses will soon reach the pinnacle of a regional business awards program.

Advanced Aquarium Technologies, Sunny Rays Catering, Laguna Pest Control and Alex Surf Club will be inducted into the Sunshine Coast Business Awards Hall of Fame in November.

This accolade recognises sustained excellence, leadership and achievement across their respective industries.

They will join an esteemed group of local businesses, which have demonstrated consistent success through the Sunshine Coast Business Awards program.

Sunshine Coast Business Awards chair Jennifer Swaine said Hall of Fame induction was one of the highest honours within the awards.

“The Hall of Fame recognises businesses that haven’t just achieved success once, but have demonstrated an exceptional standard over a sustained period,” Ms Swaine said.

“These four businesses are very different in what they do, but they share a commitment to excellence, innovation and continuous improvement.

“They also demonstrate the breadth of capability within the Sunshine Coast business community, from global innovation and hospitality to trades, sustainability and community impact.”

John Langmead, Kirra Langmead, Michaela Langmead from Advanced Aquarium Technologies.
John Langmead, Kirra Langmead, Michaela Langmead from Advanced Aquarium Technologies. Picture: The Comms People.

Advanced Aquarium Technologies will be inducted following sustained success across multiple award categories including export, building and construction and Business of the Year.

Headquartered on the Coast, the business designs, builds and delivers major aquarium projects around the world, demonstrating the reach and capability of businesses based in the region.

“Advanced Aquarium Technologies is a powerful example of a Sunshine Coast business competing and succeeding on a global stage,” Ms Swaine said.

“Their continued growth and international success showcase what is possible when expertise, innovation and ambition come together.”

Sunny Rays Catering will also enter the Hall of Fame following multiple wins in the Hospitality Small Business category.

From private dining and weddings to corporate events, the locally based catering business has built a strong reputation for food, event delivery and service.

“Sunny Rays has become a highly respected part of the Sunshine Coast hospitality sector and their sustained success reflects the consistency and care they bring to every event,” Ms Swaine said.

Nicky Turner and Jay Turner from Laguna Pest Control.
Nicky Turner and Jay Turner from Laguna Pest Control. Picture: The Comms People

Laguna Pest Control will be recognised following years of achievement in trades and services, as well as becoming the inaugural recipient of the Sustainability Award in 2025.

The family-owned Sunshine Coast business has also focused on industry education and sustainability through initiatives including its Keen for Green Quest and Pestie Profiles podcast.

“Laguna Pest Control continues to challenge traditional perceptions of its industry while setting high standards for customer service, innovation and sustainability,” Ms Swaine said.

“Their Hall of Fame induction recognises both their business performance and their willingness to lead change within their sector.”

Genice McCall, Annie Miller, Helen Butler, Michelle McLenaghan, Cameron Grentell from Alex Surf Club.
Genice McCall, Annie Miller, Helen Butler, Michelle McLenaghan, Cameron Grentell from Alex Surf Club. Picture: The Comms People

Alex Surf Club has had sustained success in the hospitality category.

One of the region’s best-known coastal venues, Alex Surf Club combines hospitality with a broader community role as a not-for-profit supporting the Alexandra Headland Surf Life Saving Club.

“Alex Surf Club is deeply connected to the Sunshine Coast community,” Ms Swaine said.

“Their success demonstrates that strong business performance and community contribution can go hand-in-hand, and we are delighted to recognise that through their Hall of Fame induction.”

Previous inductees include White’s IGA, Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat, Aussie Tiny Houses and Stymie.

The four 2026 inductees will be formally recognised at the Sunshine Coast Business Awards gala dinner in November.

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