Franchise Council of Australia announces regional winners of 2010 Excellence in Franchising Awards

Franchise consultants from the Franchise Council of Australia have announced the Victorian and Tasmanian regional winners of the 2010 Excellence in Franchising Awards, honoured at a gala dinner at the Crown Entertainment Complex in Melbourne on Friday the 6th of August.

Taking out the Franchisee Community Service Award for Victoria and Tasmania were Brian and Jo Denvir of Bakers Delight, Patterson Lakes.

Brian and Jo received the award for their continuing contributions to local charities and schools. In the past 12 months, they have been involved in promoting over 15 local community groups.

Both the scope of their involvement, and their dedication to community groups made them stand-out winners this year.

Sara Pantaleo, CEO of La Porchetta restaurants took out the VIC/TAS Franchise Woman of the Year Award.

Sara has had a challenging 12 months, with the sudden passing of her brother and founder of La Porchetta, Rocky Pantaleo.

Sara’s ability to manage the situation and to keep the business focused and on track has reinforced her already strong contributions to the system and the franchise sector this year.

Other winners included:

• Ashley Coburn, Bakers Delight, Rosebud (VIC/TAS Franchisee of the Year - 2 or more staff)
• Shane and Sally Cole, Pack & Send, Melbourne City (VIC/TAS Franchisee of the Year - Less than 2 staff)
• Brad and Katherine Underhill, Matchbox, Eastland, Doncaster and Knox (VIC/TAS Multi-Unit Franchisee of the Year); and
• Alan Sammut, MINIT Australia (VIC/TAS Field Manager of the Year).