They’re big supporters of the CGU Banjo Business Awards and have collected a swag of awards over the years.

The highlight, according to Jane Merchant, came in 2010 when they took out the professional services award as well as the judges’ choice for business of the year.

Hansen Optometrists have been nominated again in 2014 and Ms Merchant believes it’s the perfect way for Orange to celebrate such a successful business community.

“We have been supporting and participating in the awards right from the beginning. It is a great way to showcase the local businesses to the residents of Orange,” she said.

“Hansens would encourage all the public to vote as this shows support for all the local businesses.

“Everybody has their favourites, and the awards are a great way to show your support.”

The CGU Business Awards committee have introduced several new, exciting changes this year, including the opportunity for people to vote online for their favourite businesses.

“The change in formation 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,” business awards committee chairman Mark Monaghan said.

Mr Monaghan said businesses that receive the highest number of votes in each category will become a finalist in their selected categories.

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.