THERE is something wonderfully special about Fremantle. 

Perhaps it’s our colourful characters, our fiercely independent spirit or our extraordinary ability to turn just about anything into a celebration. 

But if there is one thing I know for certain, it’s that Fremantle is home to some of the most remarkable businesses and businesspeople in Western Australia.

And on Thursday October 8, we gave them the standing ovation they deserve. 

The 2026 Fremantle Chamber of Commerce Business Awards Gala brought together almost 400 of our city’s finest at the Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Rydges for an evening of celebration, recognition and an absolutely outrageous amount of SPARKLE.

I had the enormous pleasure of hosting alongside Fremantle’s very own Bondi Vet, Dr Garnett Hall. 

But behind the frocks, the fabulousness and the festivities was something far more important. 

Fifteen award categories. More than 1,700 nominations. And an extraordinary collection of Fremantle success stories. 

These awards are not simply about recognising commercial success. They are about celebrating courage, creativity, resilience, reinvention and the people who put their hearts and souls into making our city what it is. 

And what a collection of winners we have in 2026!

It seems only fitting that in a port city built on maritime history, our Ocean Economy Award went to Endeavour Foods, recognising a business contributing to the seafood industry that remains such an important part of Fremantle’s identity and economy.

Our Business & Professional Services Award went to All Glass Cleaning, a wonderful reminder that excellence is not always about having the biggest shopfront or the flashiest marketing campaign. It’s about delivering exceptional service, building trust and taking pride in your work.

And speaking of pride, Premier Electrical Services took home the Sustainable Enterprise Award, recognising the importance of businesses helping drive more sustainable practices and a cleaner future. 

Fremantle has always been a little different. And frankly, that’s our superpower. Our Tourist Attraction Award went to the delightfully whimsical The Pickled Fairy & Other Myths, a business that perfectly captures the imagination, individuality and unexpected magic that make Fremantle unforgettable.

Garde Hotel achieved a double victory, taking home both the Property Development and Accommodation Awards. These two awards recognise the importance of investment in our city and the role that exceptional accommodation and thoughtful development play in Fremantle’s visitor economy.

Our Retail Award was claimed by Fusions IGA Fremantle, celebrating the importance of independent retail and the local businesses that serve our community day in and day out.

And the Wellness & Beauty Award went to Bosuns Barbershop, proving that great grooming, excellent customer service and a strong local identity are a winning combination.

We all know Fremantle doesn’t exactly struggle when it comes to having a good time. Our hospitality, entertainment and creative industries are woven into the very fabric of our city. And this year’s winners certainly reflected that.

The Entertainment Venue Award delivered one of the night’s great moments, with a tie between Penny Lane’s Music Workshop and Benny’s Bar + Cafe. Two very different businesses, both contributing enormously to Fremantle’s cultural heartbeat.

Penny Lane’s went on to claim the Creative Industries Award as well, an outstanding double achievement.

Charm

Our Bar Award went to Mons. O’Shea, bringing a little Irish charm to the winners’ circle. Because if there’s one thing Fremantle appreciates, it’s a good gathering place with plenty of personality.

And our Cafe or Restaurant Award was won by Emily Taylor, a destination that has become synonymous with memorable dining, delicious dumplings and the kind of hospitality that keeps people coming back. 

One of my favourite things about our Business Awards is that we recognise success in all its forms. Not every achievement is measured in dollars, visitor numbers or business growth. 

Sometimes, the greatest success is the difference you make in someone else’s life. Our Community Organisation Award went to Tattoos for Tails, recognising an organisation whose compassion for animals and commitment to making a difference are worth celebrating.

And then came one of the most meaningful awards of the evening. Our Business Person of the Year, Fiona Hearn from Fremantle PCYC. Fiona’s story is one of extraordinary dedication. 

Beginning her journey as a gymnast before progressing into coaching and becoming a gymnastics coordinator, Fiona has devoted decades to supporting young people through sport. 

Her commitment has extended far beyond teaching gymnastics skills. She has helped create opportunities, build confidence, encourage participation and provide a positive environment for generations of young people. A Life Member of Fremantle PCYC, Fiona represents the very best of community leadership. She reminds us that leadership isn’t always about the loudest voice in the room.

And finally, our 2026 Hall of Fame Award went to Benny’s Bar + Cafe.

For so many people, Benny’s is more than a venue. It’s part of the Fremantle experience. 

A familiar name in our hospitality landscape, a place for celebrations, live entertainment, catchups and countless memorable nights out. To receive both the Entertainment Venue Award and Hall of Fame recognition in the same evening is a remarkable achievement. The Hall of Fame celebrates something that cannot be created overnight. Longevity. Legacy. Community connection. And the ability to remain relevant in an industry where change is constant and competition is fierce.

Benny’s has earned its place in Fremantle’s business history.

by CHRISSIE MAUS
CEO, Fremantle Chamber of Commerce