Carolyn Male MP, State Member for Pine Rivers, said that the search is on for 2010’s most innovative and successful Queensland export businesses.

Carolyn Male MP said following the launch of the Premier of Queensland’s Export Awards, Pine Rivers’ global businesses now had the opportunity to showcase their success.

“This year we celebrate 21 years of these awards, promoting the significant achievements of the state’s leading export businesses - big and small, regional and metropolitan,” Carolyn Male MP said.

“In 2008-09 Queensland’s merchandise goods exports were worth a record $56.3 billion, and service exports from Queensland were worth a further $9.2 billion over the same period.”

“In recent times business has faced some major challenges, and getting into exporting and targeting new overseas markets is a great way to open up new opportunities.”

“Nominating for the awards is a great way to build business confidence.”

“I encourage Pine Rivers’ exporting companies to participate in the awards. They provide acknowledgement of staff achievements and are important in building your company’s profile and brand,” Carolyn Male MP said.

“This year Queensland export companies can nominate in 12 award categories,” Carolyn Male MP said.

The winner of the Queensland Exporter of the Year Award will be selected from the winners of these categories, and finalists and winners will be announced at a presentation ceremony hosted by Premier Anna Bligh on Thursday 21 October, as part of Export Week 2010.

“The Premier of Queensland’s Export Awards program gives our outstanding exporters due recognition and reward, and acknowledges their contribution to Queensland,” Carolyn Male MP said.

Online applications are now open for the 2010 Export Awards through Trade Queensland’s export website, www.export.qld.gov.au.

For more information about these awards please call my office on 3205 6779 or email pine.rivers@parliament.qld.gov.au.