Precedent Productions Managing Director Steve Loe, said the program would proceed on schedule, with the only change being the delay of the presentation evening until the end of the year.
“I have no doubt everyone is experiencing the stress of uncertainty during this unprecedented and challenging time,” he said.
“All of us at Precedent Productions extend our thoughts to those of you who are doing it tough”.
“Now, more than ever, small businesses and their staff in the Central Coast area need the support of their community,” he said.
“These are extremely challenging times for every member of our community, and the number one priority for all of us is to listen to the regulations being put in place by government at all levels and heed the advice of our health professionals.
“We also need to support each other physically and emotionally in any way that we can, in particular keeping in touch with friends, neighbours and relatives (especially the elderly) via phone or email”.
“Business owners and workers everywhere are naturally concerned for their health as well as their livelihoods.
“But in more than 35 years of running the Local Business Awards I have come to learn that Australians are courageous, resilient, resourceful and community spirited people”.
“We can and we will get through this by sticking together.”
Mr Loe said the Local Business Awards had always provided a morale boost to businesses and their staff by allowing the community to show their appreciation and support for their hard work and dedication.
“You will still be able to nominate and vote for your favourite local businesses in this year’s awards,” Mr Loe said.
“The only difference is that the awards ceremony, where we announce the winners in each category, will be held at the end of the year when this crisis is, hopefullly, behind us.
“Until then, I urge residents of the Central Coast community to show their support for the local businesses and their workers, who deserve a boost now more than ever.
“Finally, allow me to stress that by being positive and supporting each other as local businesses we can influence how we make it through this period.
“Please make an effort to 'Shop Local, Buy Local' wherever you possibly can, and ensure a local business benefits from your trade.”
For more information about the Local Business Awards program, call Precedent Productions on 8363 3333.
