CQU's Management and Human Resources lecturer, Dr Paul Waight, CQU's Community Engagement Coordinator Tamsen Clifford-Banks (centre) and Helen Quaife from the Department of Tourism, Regional Development & Tourism attended the launch of the awards last week.Central Queensland University will recognise the work local businesses are doing in the community through the Community Contribution Award at this year's Rockhampton Regional Development & Ergon Energy Business Excellence Awards.

According to CQU's Director of Development and Graduate Relations Suzi Blair, as sponsors of the category CQU hopes not only to recognise the work already being done by businesses in Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast, but also to encourage others to become more involved in the community.

"Good corporate citizenship is not only good for business by helping organisations to connect with their community, but it improves staff morale and the business profile ... CQU is delighted to be able provide a platform for Rockhampton businesses to promote the contribution they are making to the community."

Entrepreneurship expert and CQU's Management and Human Resources lecturer, Dr Paul Waight will participate on the judging panel for the award.

Dr Waight has owned and managed small business for most of his working life and has recently been appointed to the lecturing position at CQU, after spending 6 years at Griffith University. He also has extensive experience in small business consultation and is co-author of ‘Planning a Nature-based Tourism Business on Your Property'.

Submissions for the awards close May 30 and winners will be announced at a gala dinner on June 27.

For more details regarding the awards, visit. http://www.rockhamptonregion.com.au/ .