A MURWILLUMBAH pharmacy has taken out the Tweed's top business of the year at a glittering awards ceremony earlier this week.

Varela and Swift Pharmacy, in Murwillumbah's Main St, was named the shire's best business for the year as part of the annual BEATS Awards, now in its fourth year.

The pharmacy, which is co-owned by Con Varela and Skye Swift, was a popular nominee in several categories, eventually taking out the Best Business of the Year as well as the Employer of Choice.

"This is a small business that works hard in the community, it's fantastic to win this award,” said Ms Swift, who bought into the business six years ago.

"Customers say they love our independence and the feeling we actually care. We love helping people in the community and we can do whatever we want because it is just the two of us.”

Mr Varela, who first started working at the pharmacy 34 years ago before buying the business eight years later, said the award was most welcome.

"It is good reassurance we are on the right track with what we are doing, so we will keep on doing it,” Mr Varela said.

"Our team is the best, everyone is going just over and above and doing the best for both our regular and our new customers, we're just so proud of them.”

The pharmacy was one of 17 winners on the night, with most winners automatically forwarded to the regional and state awards in their respective categories.

Another big winner was Nathan Day, of IC Signs, who took out Young Entrepreneur of the Year as well as Excellence in Trade, Construction and Manufacturing.

BEATS co-ordinator Toni Zuschke, former president of the Murwillumbah & District Chamber of Commerce, received a surprise Premier's Award from Lismore MP Thomas George, for her contribution to the Tweed business community.

"This prestigious award came as total shock to me,” Ms Zuschke said.

"I felt very humbled, honoured and valued. I love my community so serving them and being part of them is a privilege.”

Other awards winners on the night were:

• Craig McNiven from Ecomist North Coast as Business Leader
• Excellence in Creative Industries - Fun Time Performers
• Excellence in Accessibility and Inclusion - Billabong Swim School
• Excellence in Community and Social Services - Tweed Valley Masonic Welfare Association
• Excellence in Dining - Mavis' Kitchen
• Excellence in Personal Services - Lady Bella
• Excellence in Professional Service - Southern Cross Credit Union
• Excellence in Retail - Chozen Surf
• Excellence in Visitor Experience - Mount Warning Tours
• Excellence in Small Business - Tabatinga Family Fun Centre
• Excellence in Aged Care and Wellbeing - Laurence Irvine Chiropractic
• Excellence in Sustainability - Gymea Eco Retreat and Spa
• Excellence in Work Health and Safety - Tropical Fruit World