Competition is heating up in the race to the 2013 PORT DOUGLAS Magazine Douglas Business Awards, with over 10,000 votes counted and most categories too close too call. 

Organisers this week confirmed the 2013 ceremony, the region's only customer-voted awards program recognising and celebrating excellence among the local business community, will be held on November 22.

Newsport Media Publishing’s Roy Weavers  said based on 2012 guest feedback, this year’s later date Provides for guest planning, and invites participating businesses to combine the night with Christmas party celebrations.

Now in its fourth year, the exclusive annual event continues to develop as the Douglas’ gala ‘night of nights’, with two new categories added this year in professional and trade services, and expanded existing categories. 

He said the growth is to be expected, with the region’s revitalisation, due in part to the ongoing de-amalgamation process, recent tourism boost, and growing value and popularity among locals and visitors. 

“There’s still over two months to go until the winners are announced, and voting has already surpassed last year’s record,” Mr Weavers said. “Almost every category is hotly contested. I’m sure it’ll come down to the wire, with lots of crossed fingers and speculation!” 

Customer-voted categories include accomodation, tours, tourist services and attractions, restaurants and dining, real estate, wedding services, retail, entertainment, events, and beauty. 

In addition, the following non-customer-voted Awards will also be handed out:

• Editor's Award of Excellence;
• The Douglas Chamber of Commerce Young Achiever's Award; 
• The Douglas Business Awards Hall of Fame;
• Cairns Chamber of Commerce Douglas Businessperson of the Year;
• The Newsport Real Estate Awards;
• The Douglas Innovations / Economic Development Award; and
• The Diane Cilento Excellence in Art Award;

KStar Walking Tours’ Kevin ‘KStar’ Eldridge is among the top contenders in the Best Tour Guide category. He’s joined by Tony Bourke from Tony’s Tropical Tours, Peter Bexendal from Daintree Specialised Tours, Grant Knight from Daintree Discovery Tours and David White from Solar Whisper. KStar is also garnering plenty of votes for Best Eco Friendly Tourism Operator. 

“It’s wonderful to see the enjoyment on the night; it’s an excellent initiative and opportunity to recognise local businesses,” he said. 

“It’s also a valuable tool for gaining feedback and engaging your clientele with a thoughtful response as to what they have enjoyed, not only in relation to your business, but also into varied Douglas region industries, which all put in great work to please their guests and customers.

“For example, at my trivia nights, I encourage guests who’ve experienced the products of some of my trivia prize sponsors to vote for those products and services as well – it’s mutually beneficial for everyone involved,” KStar said. 

Mr Weavers said this year’s ceremony will be held at the Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas’ 800-square-metre pillar-less Glade Pavilion.  

“It’s a stunning setting - the largest and most unique resort facility of its kind in Australia’s tropical north –that allows for more guests than previous years. Though, as usual, it’s expected to sell out quickly.”  

Table bookings will open shortly. Early bookings are encouraged as limited tickets will be available. 

Voting closes November 1.