The awards haven't been held in Leeton since 2016, but plans for the 2019 event are hitting their stride and are on track to create an evening businesses will remember. 

With a Gatsby theme and some new inclusions, the awards are aiming to recognise the hard work of businesses and their staff through a range of categories. 

Chamber vice president Jodie Ryan was thrilled with the response to the nomination process, with residents able to put their thoughts on paper and online. 

"We were really thrilled with the amount of nominations we had in there," she said. 

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"Now we've sorted through them and placed them in the correct categories (if they weren't already) to be ready for judging. 

"Independent judges from out-of-town will be completing that part of the process."

Several of the categories remain aligned with the NSW Business Chamber system, which allows winners to progress on to the regional level before possibly making it to state. 

Some won't be linked to that process and others have been added to ensure a broad cross-section of the business community can be honoured for their hard work.

These include a "top tradie" trophy, an outstanding woman/women in business accolade, as well as the traditional Irrigator Roll of Honour award, which is similar to a life membership concept. 

In another new addition and taking a leaf out of the Logies book - the "Gold Walter" will be awarded to the Leeton business of the year.

The awards will be held on May 18 at the Leeton Soldiers Club.

However, if attendees don't feel like dressing to the Gatsby theme, strict business attire will apply. 

"Hopefully most get into the spirit of the event and the theme, but if they don't want to, that is okay as well," Ms Ryan said. 

"We're looking forward to the gala night to recognise all of our wonderful businesses in Leeton shire."

Tickets for the awards night are now on sale at the Leeton Soldiers Club. The committee expects the night to sell out, so it will be a case of first in, best dressed. 

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