Over 100 businesses completed the online entry in order to select the final list.

And the scores for this year's competition were very close, according to the organising committee.

Businesses were asked to submit a completed entry form via a new online entry portal, operated by the NSW Business Chamber, which allowed independent judges to easily collate and score each entrant. 

The final score was supported by public voting and a ‘mystery shop’ for the top four in each category to determine first place.

Over 4700 public votes were received online, with an additional 342 paper votes, to complete the final tally. 

Overall, the judges were impressed with the calibre of this year’s entrants, Port Macquarie Chamber executive Mark Wilson said.

“Our judges - independent business professionals from across the region - were very pleased to see the entrants challenging their skills and providing plenty of detail by which to assess each submission," he said.

"In some categories, the scores were literally one or two points apart, so our judges were very grateful for the added support from the public voting and mystery shop.”

Naming rights sponsor, Holiday Coast Credit Union, are delighted to support the local business community.

Holiday Coast continues to grow relationships with local businesses large and small and love seeing them grow and succeed, chief executive officer Neville Parsons said.

"Holiday Coast has a proud history of supporting the business awards with the initial sponsorship commencing 2013, we continue as naming rights sponsorship in 2018,” he said.

"It’s a great way to support our local business community with a great night of celebrating with staff and local business colleagues."

All finalists are now uploaded to the Port Macquarie Chamber website, where entrants can see the top four businesses in each category. 

Tickets to the July 28 gala dinner at Port Macquarie Panthers can be purchased from the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce website, as individual ticket or for multiple seating.

Guests and members of the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce can expect a night of glamour and celebration as MC and comedienne, Jean Kittson, will announce the winners with co-host and ABC Mid North Coast Local Radio presenter, Cameron Marshall.

As the premier business event in the Port Macquarie region, tickets are selling fast and patrons wanting to attend are encouraged to get in quick to avoid missing out. 

Organisers are looking forward to a packed venue, featuring a sumptuous three course dinner, entertainment, accolades and partying into the small hours.