Queensland Small Business Month is a timely reminder of the vital role small businesses play in keeping regional communities thriving. From creating jobs and supporting local events to building strong community connections, small businesses are truly the backbone of towns like Blackall and Tambo.

In past years, the Tambo Tourism and Business Association (TTBA) has hosted a Small Business Month event to celebrate local enterprise and encourage collaboration across the region. This year, however, Blackall-Tambo Regional Council (BTRC) took the lead, hosting the inaugural BTRC Small Business Month Awards evening, a fantastic initiative that brought together businesses from across the shire.

The event highlighted just how far the region has come in supporting local business growth. BTRC is now a proud member of the Small Business Friendly Councils program, an achievement made possible through the strong and consistent advocacy of the TTBA over many years. This recognition reflects a genuine commitment to making the region a supportive and encouraging place for businesses to start, grow and succeed.

Held in a warm and welcoming atmosphere, the awards evening was both informative and entertaining. Guest speaker Jenn Donovan, author of Small Town Big Impact, shared inspiring insights into the power of regional business communities and the importance of supporting local. Her message resonated strongly with attendees and reinforced the idea that small businesses in rural towns can achieve incredible things when communities rally behind them.

The evening also showcased the strong business spirit across Blackall and Tambo, with an impressive turnout from local operators. While the Tambo Teddies team didn’t take home an award on the night, they certainly made the most of the celebration. In true Tambo style, the team had an absolute blast — in fact, they were the last to leave, even helping lock up and turn the lights off at the end of the night.

Events like these are more than just awards ceremonies. They create opportunities for connection, collaboration and recognition, while reminding us all why supporting small business matters. When small businesses succeed, entire communities benefit and that’s something worth celebrating every day of the year.