Annetta Tantanis has been recognised for her hard work and dedication to the town with the Port Douglas Chamber of Commerce Young Achiever Award at the 2011 Port Douglas Magazine Awards.

Annetta works tirelessly at Tshinta, a popular swimwear store in Macrossan Street (who was also recognised with Best Retailer and Best Friendly Retail Service awards), and was honoured to be named the inaugural recipient.

"It's awesome to be recognised. I'm really proud that the Chamber selected me for this especially being the first year for it."

After moving from Melbourne a little over five years ago, Annetta can see her future here in Port Douglas despite the challenges which affect the health of the town's economy.

"Port Douglas can be a hard town because we don't get a whole year of great trade.
 
"I think you have to be positive to be able to move forward and go through the hard times. It's just part of it. Living in the city they have their challenges too.

Annetta says she has aspirations of becoming even more involved in the town and its organisations, with a seat on the Chamber board not out of the question.

She praised the Port Douglas Magazine Award organisers for their efforts in initiating the awards.

"It's really commendable, nothing has been done like this before. I think it's really important, it's tourist and locals voting for their favourite.

"They're consumers, not business nominating themselves.

"Every finalist should be really proud to be on that list. Their customers and their clients think so much of them they want to write their name on the form." 

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