Porters Plainland Hotel

Porters Plainland Hotel takes home coveted title at Lockyer Valley Business, Training and Apprenticeship Awards

They're a family-owned business synonymous with the Lockyer Valley and this year, Porters Plainland Hotel received the prestigious title of the 2018 Business of the Year at the Lockyer Valley Business, Training and Apprenticeship Awards.

Owned and operated by the Porter family since 1946, Porters Plainland Hotel continues to go from strength to strength.

The Hotel is iconic to the Lockyer Valley and prides itself on a strong customer-focus, so it is little wonder it also took out the Food and Dining Award in front of a packed Gatton Shire Hall on Saturday night.

The familiar Warrego Highway landmark is managed by a third generation of Porters, Michael and his wife Shelley and sister Mel. The trio has continued to build on the achievements of Bob and Julie Porter.

Lockyer Valley Mayor, Cr Tanya Milligan congratulated the family for their ability to always look to the future.

"Porters Plainland Hotel is committed to providing only the very best experience for its customers and that is why it is iconic to the Lockyer Valley.

"Now, they're looking to the future and have significant growth plans underway for the business, with the development of hotel/motel rooms to compliment the hotel complex.

"It continually demonstrates business excellence and contributes significantly, not only to the fabric of the local community but also to the growing tourism and events market," Mayor Milligan said.

Sunrise reporter and presenter, Edwina Bartholomew hosted this year's event, much to the delight of the 400-plus crowd.

"Edwina is a household name and is a highly regarded professional in her field.

"She is as warm, funny and engaging as she is on television and it was a pleasure to have her host this year's ceremony," she said.

Another winner on the night was Family Health Gatton, who took out not only the coveted Heritage Bank People's Choice Award, but also Employee of the Year, awarded to their Practice Manager Ellisha Freeman.

This year's Mayor's Award went to a business that has thrived in the face of adversity.

"Killing Time with Coffee has become an institution in the region, after taking over in Gatton in 2015 and opening in Plainland just over two years ago.

"This business is a family affair that has thrived in the face of adversity. It gives people the opportunity to connect and spend time together.

"Wherever possible, Leanne and Melissa utilise local suppliers and products, as well as sponsor local sporting groups and donate gift vouchers to local schools and fundraising groups.

"Congratulations to this family-owned business, who are undoubtedly worthy winners," Mayor Milligan said.

A full list of the winners is as follows:

Apprenticeship and Employee Awards

• Apprentice of the Year - Lachie Miners - Lockyer Engineering
• Young Supervisor/Manager of the Year - Kimberley Hearn - Rugby Farm
• Employee of the Year - Ellisha Freeman - Family Health Clinic
• Employee of the Year - Business Services - Ellisha Freeman - Family Health Clinic
• Employee of the Year - Trade Services - Ben Kluck - Lockyer Engineering

Business Category Winners

• Agriculture and Horticulture Production and Processing - Barden Produce
• Food and Dining - Porters Plainland Hotel
• Health Fitness and Wellbeing Services - Dance Force
• Home Based Business - Valley Waste Water
• Professional Health Services - Gatton Pharmacy
• Professional Services - Gatton Real Estate
• Retail - NewsXpress Laidley
• Tourism - The Barn and Scotty's Garage
• Trade Services - Thomson Refrigeration & Air Conditioning
• Transport, Logistics, Manufacturing and Agricultural Services - R&F Steel Buildings
• Environment and Sustainable Award - 9Dorf Farms

Judge's Highly Commended

• BEST Employment Gatton
• Lockyer Sheds

People's Choice Award Winner - Family Health Clinic

2018 Mayor's Award Winner - Killing Time with Coffee

2018 Business of the Year - Porters Plainland Hotel

For further information, contact Council on 1300 005 872 or visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au