In their place will be an end-of-year get-together for the business community ahead of the awards return in 2016. 

The awards have been run with sponsorship from Powercor over the past six years. 

But the energy network provider decided not to continue with the event this year, providing a catalyst for review.  

Warrnambool City Council’s manager of economic development and investment Andrew Paton said the need for a review became clear during the nomination process for the 2014 event. 

He said the response to some categories was minimal and council had to encourage eligible businesses to nominate. 

“It was time to take stock and give the event a bit of a refresh,” Mr Paton said. 

“We are having a look at each of the categories, the eligibility criteria, what is still relevant and what we can add. 

“We’re confident they’ll be back with a refreshed and reinvigorated awards in 2016.” 

Mr Parton said Powercor had been a brilliant supporter of the business awards and the wider community. 

“They have decided to direct their community support to other areas,” he said.

“The Tour De Depot earlier this year is one example. 

“That event raised thousands of dollars for Warrnambool and District Food Share. 

“We are very thankful for Powercor's support of the business awards over the past six years and their continual support of the community.” 

He said a business celebration will be held towards the end of the year where the Customer Service and Volunteer of the Year awards will be presented as normal.

“Details for the end-of-year event are still being finalised and we hope to have information to businesses soon,” Mr Paton said.