There’s something pretty special about wandering through the Queanbeyan-Palerang region and finding a new favourite place to stop by. Maybe it’s a beautifully curated shop tucked into a heritage streetscape in Bungendore. A country pub filled with locals and laughter. A pastry cabinet in Queanbeyan that makes choosing just one thing impossible. Or a Braidwood producer proudly showcasing the flavours of the region.
These are the kinds of experiences that stay with people long after the trip home, and many of the businesses creating them were recently recognised at the 2026 Queanbeyan-Palerang Business Awards.
Queanbeyan-Palerang Business Awards 2026 Winners, The Malbon
These inaugural awards celebrated the creativity, passion and resilience helping shape the region into one of the most rewarding places to explore on Canberra’s doorstep, with more than 80 submissions received across the various categories and over 3,500 public votes cast in the People’s Choice Awards.
Among the standout winners was The Malbon, which took home the Excellence in Retail Award. Housed within a beautifully restored historic building, The Malbon has become a destination in itself, showcasing more than 65 local makers, artists and small businesses under one roof. From antiques and floristry to jewellery, ceramics and locally crafted treasures, it’s the kind of place visitors can happily lose track of time exploring.
Santa’s Secret
Also recognised in Bungendore was Santa’s Secret, winner of the Excellence in Creative Industries Award. Known for its whimsical displays and handcrafted seasonal creations, Santa’s Secret brings colour, creativity and a little bit of magic to Bungendore. Its one-of-a-kind decorative installations continue to add to Bungendore’s reputation as a destination full of character and creative energy.
Ciao Café and Cakes, Braidwood Food Company
In Queanbeyan, Ciao Café and Cakes was awarded Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality. The family-run, veteran-owned business has built a loyal following through handcrafted tortes, pastries and sweets made on-site using traditional recipes. More than just a local favourite, Ciao Café and Cakes has become a must-stop for visitors chasing handmade treats and great customer service.
Further east, Braidwood Food Company has been recognised for Sustainability Leadership. Born from the challenges of the 2019-2020 bushfires, the business has grown into a multi-award-winning artisan producer working closely with local growers to champion cold climate produce and sustainable farming practices. Their success continues to strengthen Braidwood’s reputation as a must-visit foodie destination.
Braidwood Commercial Hotel, Captains Flat Hotel
The region’s hospitality scene also shone brightly in the People’s Choice Awards, with more than 3,500 community votes cast across the categories.
Congratulations went to Braidwood Commercial Hotel and Captains Flat Hotel for taking home People’s Choice honours in their respective areas, while the talented team at 121 Hair was recognised in the Queanbeyan category.
From farm gates and cafés to boutiques, bakeries and country pubs, these businesses are helping shape the stories visitors take home from the Queanbeyan-Palerang region — one warm welcome, memorable meal and thoughtful experience at a time.
For the full list of award-winning businesses helping keep the Queanbeyan-Palerang region vibrant, welcoming and well serviced, see below.
People’s Choice Award:
- Area 1: Braidwood, Araluen, Majors Creek, Nerriga: Braidwood Hotel
- Area 2: Bungendore, Wamboin, Bywong, Hoskinstown, Captains Flat, Carwoola: Captains Flat Hotel
- Area 3: All Queanbeyan suburbs, Karabar, Googong, Jerrabomberra, Burra: 121 Hair
Industry Awards:
- Excellence in Agribusiness, Farming & Primary Production: Roogulli Farm
- Excellence in Industry & Manufacturing: Base Soaps & Dusty Fabrications Pty Ltd
- Excellence in Personal Services: Pete’s Swim School
- Excellence in Professional Services: Palerang Financial Services Pty Ltd – Braidwood and Bungendore Community Bank Branches Bendigo Bank
- Excellence in Retail: The Malbon
- Excellence in the Care Economy: RSL Lifecare Limited
- Excellence in the Creative Industries: Santa’s Secret
- Excellence in Tourism & Hospitality: Ciao Café and Cakes Queanbeyan
- Excellence in Trade, Maintenance & Facility Services: Matriark & Co
- Excellence in Transport, Freight & Logistics: Braidwood Buses Pty Ltd
Impact Awards:
- Breakthrough Business: Consultant Café
- Diversity & Inclusion Leadership: Familia Fitness
- Outstanding First Nations Business: Marrawuy Journeys Pty Ltd
- Sustainability Leadership: Braidwood Food Company
Individual Awards:
- Outstanding Young Talent: Katie Bissett
- Queanbeyan-Palerang Business of the Year: Pete’s Swim School