More than 200 people attended the glittering function at the Muswellbrook RSL Club, with The Remington and Muswellbrook Home Timber & Hardware the big winners on the night.

After securing the hospitality and tourism title, The Remington was then named the Business of the Year.

The luxurious motel scored the highest overall total of all 27 finalists, which was an accumulation of points awarded by judges on their written application, plus a visit at the end of March.

Muswellbrook Home Timber & Hardware enjoyed success in the retail (large) category, and backed it up to snare the prestigious Best Presented Business crown.

In handing out that award, MCCI president Mike Kelly admitted it was becoming “more and more difficult to single out one business”.

“The standard of presentation has lifted considerably with many businesses upgrading their premises, as well as the introduction of a number of new ones,” he said.

“I chose Muswellbrook Home Timber & Hardware for its exemplary level of presentation to two street frontages, good signage, well-presented product displays, orderly and attractive exhibits featuring a wide range of stock, and helpful staff.

“They’ve also renovated an old building to a high standard.”

Mr Kelly said the awards, for the 15th time, were another huge success.

“We had a very diverse group of contestants,” he admitted.

“The judging process and presentations were enthusiastically supported, too.

“The judges commented that the standard was very high and choosing winners was very difficult.

“Muswellbrook businesses are moving ahead in leaps and bounds with a general upturn in the local economy and growing commitment to customer service.

“We were delighted to have sponsors from the mining, power generation and horse breeding sectors as well as council. 

“This is a sign of the diversity in our region.

“It also shows the willingness of all industries to work together through the chamber to grow our economy and build our community.”