Telstra is reminding the nation’s top business minds to submit for the 2013 Telstra Australian Business Awards, with the April 4 deadline fast approaching.

This year, for the second time only, the awards will include a Start-Up Award category whichrecognises the dedication, enthusiasm and business nous of Australian entrepreneurs and business visionaries.

The winner of the 2007 Telstra Australian Business of Year,Pam Brook, co-founder with husband Martin of macadamia products manufacturing company Brookfarm, advises award hopefuls thatmanaging business performance without compromising quality is one of the toughest lessons for entrepreneurs.

“When we started in 1999, we were entirely new to the food industry, let alone manufacturing. From the outset we were persistent and totally focused on quality every day, in everything we do. It has been essential to our success.”

Will Irving, Telstra Business Group Managing Director and Telstra Business Awards Ambassador, said the awards provide an opportunity to celebrate and reward the entrepreneurialism and leadership that is vital to the Australian economy.

“The Telstra Australian Business Awards recognise those business founders and leaders who have turned ideas into a commercial success. The awards are also instrumental in growing and establishing sustainable businesses by providing each entrant with an individual Business Health Check report that evaluates their performance against international benchmarks.

“From start-ups to well established businesses, Aussie business founders are creating jobs, driving economic value in local communities and taking their expertise and innovations to the world.