Recognising the value of young people to a community and retaining their skills for the future is a challenge for all remote and regional communities.

But the Port Douglas Chamber of Commerce has taken an important step in bringing the contributions of the region's youth to the fore by sponsoring the Port Douglas Business Awards' Young Achiever Award for 2012.

"The Port Douglas Chamber of Commerce recognises that there are young people working hard to realise their dreams and to make a real difference," the Chamber said in a statement.

"Young, entrepreneurial people are the life-blood of any community and, as they succeed, they provide employment and the opportunity for other young people in the work force to stay in a regional area like Douglas."

Taking out the inaugural award in 2011 was Annetta Tantanis who has since stepped up her personal development and community contribution even further by taking a seat on the Port Douglas Chamber of Commerce committee.

"It's a great opportunity for business owners and community members to stop and think how valuable some employees in Port Douglas and Mossman are.

"There are so many young employees doing a remarkable job running companies in town and it is a fabulous time for the owners to recognise this."

For more information on the award, and to find out how to nominate yourself or someone you know visit the Port Douglas Chamber of Commerce website.

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