PORT Macquarie’s Billabong Zoo achieved outstanding recognition at the 2025 Mid North Coast Regional Business Awards on Friday night, taking out four major categories and receiving a standing ovation.
The awards, which celebrate business excellence between Coffs Harbour and Forster, were held at Sails Port Macquarie.
Billabong Zoo was named Business of the Year and also won in the Excellence in Large Business and Outstanding Visitor Experience categories.
Koala Keeper Kelsie Redman was named the “Outstanding Employee” of the year.
Co-owner Mark Stone said Kelsie had become one of the most recognisable and beloved faces of Billabong Zoo.
“[She is] known for her deep expertise in koala husbandry, her role in the zoo’s world-renowned Koala Breeding Centre and her ability to inspire and educate visitors of all ages.
“Kelsie embodies everything Billabong Zoo stands for: dedication, compassion and the drive to make a difference.
“She is an inspiration to her colleagues and a role model for future conservationists.”
The Stone family said they were “extremely surprised” by the scale of their success and credited all their “tireless and hardworking staff”.
Mr Stone also expressed his gratitude for being part of such an “outstanding community of tourism operators” and highlighted the importance of “locals supporting locals”.
The zoo earned its place in the regional finals after its success in the Wauchope and Hinterland Business Awards.
It will now represent the Mid North Coast at the State Business Awards.
“Winning at the regional level is a tremendous honour.
“We look forward to showcasing the Mid North Coast at the State Awards and continuing to shine a spotlight on the importance of conservation, education, and tourism in our community.”
Other Greater Port Macquarie winners included:
– Outstanding Business Leader – 21+ Employees: Sunette Opperman, MBC Recruitment
– Outstanding Community Organisation: Garden Village Port Macquarie
– Excellence in Diversity & Inclusion: Dr Kristy, Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic
– Employer of Choice – 21+ Employees: Linked Community Services
– Excellence in Innovation: Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic
– Excellence in Micro Business: Brows By Willow
– Outstanding New Business: Get Fresh Nails
– Outstanding Business Leader – 20 & Under: Viahn Vu, Pho Home & Get Fresh Nails
– Excellence in Small Business: Magnified Accounting
– Excellence in Sustainability: PC Pitstop.
By Pauline CAIN
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