The Douglas Business Awards for 2013 may still be over five months away, but already voting activity has been intense.

More than 5,000 votes have been cast for over 300 local businesses to date, with last year's total of 8,500 votes likely to be eclipsed.

Awards convenor Roy Weavers said two new categories are receiving a lot of positive attention.

"The 'Best Tradesperson' and 'Best Trade Business' categories are attracting great support with 37 tradies and 33 separate businesses already nominated.

"Our real estate categories are also gathering strong momentum. The pleasing aspect is that both of these sections were suggested for addition in the Douglas Business Awards by our local business sector.

"They want to see people and businesses recognised for their efforts in improving the overall standard of how we do things in the region."

Mr Weavers added that voters were making the most of their opportunity to have their say by using the voting forms to the fullest - casting votes in multiple categories.

"That's exactly what we like to see. Don't waste this chance to tell us who has shined," he said.

Voters who complete four or more categories in the 2013 Awards will automatically be entered into a prize draw to win a long weekend package for four people at QT Resort Port Douglas valued at $3,000.

Votes can be cast online, or by completing a voting form found around the region and in the Issue 10 of Port Douglas Magazine.

Winner will be announced at the Douglas Business Awards gala event on 18 October at Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas.