Professional look to business awards

By Shaun Inguanzo
THE Premier Regional Business Awards organised by the Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce has been praised by the community for its professional presentation at the new Drum Theatre.
The main winner on the evening of Wednesday, 8 March was Dandenong South-based metal fabricator Hilton Manufacturing which has been described this week by a local manufacturer’s alliance as an industry mover and shaker.
At this week’s Greater Dandenong council meeting, Dandenong North Ward councillor John Kelly praised the evening and said the video presentations of each award nominee and recipient, plus the theatre-style ceremony, gave the awards a professional edge that was highly commendable.
About 300 people filled mainly the lower level of the Drum Theatre as more history was made with the induction of transport magnate Ken Grenda into the Chamber’s Hall of Fame, for his company’s – Grenda Buslines – contribution to the community.
Described as the patriarch of the company by master of ceremonies Jamie Sturgess, Mr Grenda accepted the honour and said the bus service had worked hard to achieve its success.
South East Melbourne Manufacturers’ Alliance (SEMMA) spokesman Paul Dowling said he was rapt to see a SEMMA member win the top prize on the evening.
“It is worthwhile recognition of Hilton Manufacturing who continually develops in a strategic manner, and has enjoyed the benefits and growth from that,” he said.
The company’s managing director, Todd Hartley, accepted the prize, as father and founder Tom Hartley looked on.
Australian entertainment quartet Pot-Pourri entertained guests on the evening with several operatic performances.
The Star will profile winners of each category over the coming weeks by delving into the clockwork of each company, and discovering what drives each business to success.