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Introducing The Sitchu Awards 2025: Nominate Your Local Legends & Win
We all have that spot — the bakery that never misses, the bar that feels like home, the deli that cures any bad day. Now’s your chance to show them some love — because the places that define our days deserve to be recognised.
This year, we’re raising a glass to the places that shape the way we live, dine and play. The inaugural Sitchu Awards is our ode to the tastemakers, the creators and the neighbourhood icons who turn everyday rituals into something unforgettable.
From the bakery that starts your morning just right, to the bar that feels like your local living room, to the spa that restores your glow — these are the places that deserve their moment in the spotlight.
We’ve honed in on what truly matters to our readers: food and drink elevated with flair, wellbeing that feels like true indulgence, and the local spirit that transforms the familiar into the extraordinary.
Now, it’s over to you — our readers, our community — to help nominate and crown the best of the best. Because celebrating life’s luxuries starts with celebrating the people and places that make them possible.
And as a bonus, every eligible nomination and vote will put you in the running to win a *$1,000 cash prize. Scroll down to nominate now.
9 Categories That Define Our Lifestyle
From indulgent bites to wellness sanctuaries and neighbourhood gems, this is your chance to shine a light on the spots in your state that truly matter:
Best Date Night Venue — The restaurants, rooftop hideaways, or bars that set the stage for unforgettable evenings.
Best Deli or Sandwich Spot — Where the sandwiches are stacked high, the flavours bold, and tomorrow’s cravings are guaranteed.
Best Bakery — Those irresistible loaves, pastries, or cakes you’ll happily queue for.
Best Neighbourhood Bar — A glass of local vino, a crafted cocktail, or the easy hum of your favourite haunt.
Best Region for a Weekend Escape — A close-to-home getaway with standout eats, scenic allure, and undeniable local character.
Best New Restaurant Opening of 2025 — The newcomer already winning hearts and setting the bar high.
Best Coffee Spot — From perfectly pulled espresso shots to artisan brews, the cafés that get it right every single time.
Best Small Local Business – Lifestyle, Beauty, Fashion, Wellness — The boutique and independent spots that bring personality, purpose, and passion in spades.
Best Foodie Suburb — The neighbourhoods that pack a serious punch, serving up big flavours from hidden cafés to local culinary gems.
How To Nominate & Vote
Nominate (via the links below) your favourite venues, businesses or destinations in any of the nine categories before the 14th of October. Full terms and conditions, including eligibility criteria and prize draw details, are available here.
Finalists will be selected by Sitchu’s editors (five per category, per state) and announced via Sitchu channels on the 22nd of October.
Vote for the winners between the 22nd of October and the 4th of November. Stay tuned for instructions.
To go into the draw to win $1,000 cash, you must both nominate and vote in at least one category.
Winners will be announced on the 12th of November.
*Terms and conditions apply, view them here.
Nominations have now closed. View the finalists here:
Australian Capital Territory Finalists
