Media Release:

Winner unveiled in national Business & Life Makeover Awards

Amanda Hartmann, 33, from Brisbane is the inaugural winner of the national Business and Life Makeover Awards.

Amanda, who runs Wynnum Road Health Therapies in the Brisbane suburb of Wynnum, will receive more than $40,000 in prizes designed to totally transform her life and business.

Run by Australian women's networking group, Essentially for Women, the Awards were presented at a gala dinner on Saturday in Brisbane.

Ms Hartmann said it was an absolute thrill to be named the winner.

"I'm overwhelmed. I still can't believe it!

"Winning an award like this is an acknowledgement of how hard I've worked. I've come this far with my business and I now have this amazing opportunity to help me keep going and stay committed to the path I'm on.

"It really is a dream come true," she said.

Busy mother of three, Ms Hartmann is a senior Speech Pathologist whose specialist home-based clinic provides fun and interactive therapy for children, especially those with disabilities.

Also the Clinical Director, Ms Hartmann manages five part-time Speech Pathologists as well as the daily running of the business.

Founder of Essentially for Women, Lyndsey Baigent said Amanda was a very deserving winner.

"Amanda is an inspiring woman who juggles her own business while caring for a family – just like so many other mothers out there," said Ms Baigent.

"I am particularly impressed with Amanda's vision to teach all children to communicate, irrespective of their disability".

One of 10 finalists among 67 entries, Ms Hartmann was selected after a lengthy judging process which included a written submission and formal interview with the judging panel.

As the winner of the Business and Life Makeover Awards, Ms Hartmann receives a $41,000 prize package, which includes a complete image makeover including stylist, skincare, clothing, jewellery and photographs; as well as a business makeover including business coaching, mentoring, publicity, web and graphic design, and personalised business products.

"It will be a completely life changing experience for Amanda," she said.

"What an amazing gift for the winner of the grand prize!"

The runner-up was Vanessa Cullen, the owner of interior design and graphic design business Forward Thinking Design based in Sydney.

Ms Cullen receives prizes worth nearly $5,000 which include business coaching, jewellery, membership to Essentially for Women and a luxury gift pack.

Third prize went to Rebecca Lawler, owner of The Hideout hair, beauty and nail salon in Burpengary Queensland. Ms Lawler receives prizes worth $3,000 which include business coaching, membership to Essentially for Women and a luxury gift pack.

Each of the 10 finalists receives a runner-up prize of membership to Essentially for Women and a luxury gift pack.

Ms Baigent said the awards were aimed at supporting women in small or home-based business.

"The Awards are designed to totally transform the business and life of the winner, over a 12 month period," said Ms Baigent.

"I appreciate how tough it can be starting your own business and this program is everything I wish I'd had starting out," said Ms Baigent.

"Essentially for Women inspires, empowers and educates women, and these Awards are another way we in which we can have a positive impact on the lives of women around the country."

"My aim with Essentially for Women is to encourage and support women, have fun, and make a difference to the lives of others," said Ms Baigent.

www.essentiallyforwomen.com.au

Mum Zone Release Date: 15th September 2009

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