Home topics small-business-resources growth-import-export Growth | Import | Export Growth | Import | Export Austrade Exporter of the Year Awards 2006 Guest Author February 1, 2007 With the overwhelming success of the 2006 Exporter of the Year Awards still in memory, Dynamic Export takes a closer look at the winners and how they can draw on their awards to drive more export sales Some of Australia’s top exporters were honoured for their success at the 2006 Exporter of the Year awards held last November. At the event, Warren Truss, Australia’s Minister for Trade, praised the range of exporters in the country. “From the city to the bush, from large corporations to small businesses, the enterprises honoured here tonight provided a vivid snapshot of the expanding number and diversity of companies that are driving Australia’s export performance. Exports rose 17 percent to reach a record $196 billion in 2005-–06.” He went on to explain the 83 finalists in the 2006 Australian Export Awards generated export earnings of more than $12.5 billion in 2005–06, and directly employ more than 36,000 Australians. In total, 12 companies were acknowledged for their success, ranging in size and experience, from a total of 83 finalists. “While established exporters continue to be well represented in the Awards program, we are increasingly seeing strong entries form a wide range of new enterprises, service providers and small to medium companies” says Peter O’Byrne, CEO of Austrade. “They are leading examples of business talent that are taking Australian products and