The first-ever Australian Rural Business Awards online event for small businesses, was held on June 24. The awards are designed to recognise the strength, resilience and talent of small business owners in rural and regional areas who have, in the last few years, gone through droughts, bushfires, mouse plagues, floods, a drop in tourism, and a global pandemic. 

Fiona Harrison, founder and chief executive of Chocolate On Purpose, Australia’s first Indigenous chocolate company, said she is excited to be named the winner of the Indigenous Business of the Year category. 

“I was humbled when I heard I’d been nominated as a finalist as it meant despite the busy lives we all lead, my customers had taken the time to nominate me. When I was announced the winner I was speechless. As a sole entrepreneur, it’s easy to feel alone while you fang around working to get everything done so you don’t disappoint your customers, so you can keep everything afloat, however this nomination, and now this win has affirmed the mission of my business is appreciated and valued…