NINE past winners of the Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce business awards proved they were hotter than ever and continuing to thrive despite enduring the global financial crisis.

The businesses discussed their challenges and achievements at yesterday’s (Wednesday’s) 2010 Premier Regional Business Awards breakfast.

In preparation for its Platinum celebration at Crown Casino on 17 March, the breakfast highlighted past award winners from 2001 to 2004, which included Grenda, Bekaert Textiles, Aussie Disposals, Club Assist, AW Bell, AstralPool, Sealed Air Entapack, Sita and Volgren.

Sharing the limelight with the highly successful businesses was Youth Enterprise nominee, Ebony Miller.

The Frankston resident has an impressive list of achievements, completing her secondary education at the age of 16, gaining an apprenticeship in hairdressing with her employer INSALON in 2008, and beginning commencing studies in the Certificate III at Chisholm Institute shortly after.

Chairman of the awards sub-committee James Sturgess said anyone who wanted to purchase a ticket or register their interest in the Premier Regional Business Awards can visit the website on www.greaterdandenongchamber.org