It’s this fact, along with the introduction of several exciting changes, that has awards committee chairman Mark Monaghan confident this year’s awards will be the best yet.

“We are really excited about the change in format which allows for people to vote online and have a say in the finalists,” he said.

“More than 870 online votes have been cast already since voting started on Monday so people are really embracing the technology.

“The change in format means that it’s important that nominated businesses let their customers, family and friends know that they’ve been nominated and encourage them to vote.”

Mr Monaghan said businesses that receive the highest number of votes in each category will become a finalists.

Voting forms will run daily in the Central Western Daily or you can visit www.orangechamber.com.au to vote.

Finalists will be announced in late June, where they’ll be asked to complete a submission form to help determine the winners, Mr Monaghan added. 

“We’ll then hold a cocktail party for the finalists on November 6, with the winners to be announced at a gala dinner on February 13, 2015, in conjunction with the annual Banjo Paterson Festival,” he said.

“Sponsorship of the 2014 business wards is a great opportunity to network with hundreds of local businesses and raise your profile as a business leader. If you are interested in sponsoring this year’s awards please e-mail awards@orangechamber.com.au.”