Collins Hume Honoured with multiple wins at Ballina Business Excellence Awards

Collins Hume
Aug 4
2 min read

Updated: Aug 6

Purpose-led approach underpins Sustainability, Leadership and Professional Excellence

Collins Hume has been recognised as multiple award winners at the 2025 Ballina Business Excellence Awards, capping off a milestone year of innovation, leadership and impact for the accounting and advisory firm:

Excellence in Business & Professional Services
Excellence in Sustainability
Outstanding Trainee/Apprentice of the Year – Kirra Connell
Outstanding Business Leader – 21 Employees & Over – Nathan McGrath

These combined achievements led to Collins Hume also being named 2025’s Business of the Year, recognising a consistent approach to client excellence, business best practices and contribution to the local business community.

Practice Manager Naomi Monk was also awarded Highly Commended in the Outstanding Employee category, placing second from a competitive field of ten finalists and receiving a framed award in recognition of her contribution and excellence.

Christopher Atkinson, Partner and CEO of Collins Hume said, “These awards are a wonderful testament to the passion and commitment our team brings to work every day.”

“We're honoured and humbled by the recognition and proud to contribute to such a vibrant local business community.”

“Special congratulations to Kirra, Nathan and Naomi — your dedication and leadership help make us better every day. And to our clients Dr Moose and Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, well done on your wins — we love seeing you succeed.”

About the awards

Ballina’s annual Business Excellence Awards is a program that recognises the passion, resilience and ingenuity of local enterprises across the Ballina Shire.

The Excellence in Sustainability award reflects Collins Hume’s deepening commitment to reducing environmental impact through thoughtful and measurable business practices.

Nathan McGrath’s recognition as Outstanding Business Leader acknowledges his role as a mentor and innovator in our Business Advisory Division Strategy360, while Kirra Connell’s Outstanding Trainee award signals a strong future for emerging talent through youth development and training.

Ballina Chamber Executive Andy Vidler closed the evening with heartfelt thanks, “These awards give us a chance to pause and appreciate the work being done across this amazing region. Congratulations to Collins Hume and all the finalists.”

With strong community roots and a forward-thinking mindset, Collins Hume continues to support clients, develop our people and contribute to the Northern Rivers with purpose and pride.

“Thank you to the Ballina Chamber of Commerce for delivering another fantastic program and to the sponsors for making the celebration possible, especially to our client Marcon Consultancy, who generously sponsored and presented the award for Professional Services. It’s rewarding to see so many local businesses supporting and celebrating each other,” Chris added.