Southland Chamber Launches Local Legend Award
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- New award honours late business leader Reece McDonald and his community contributions
- Nominations open from 15 April to 15 May on the Chamber’s official website
- Public voting begins 1 June, with the winner revealed at September’s gala dinner
The Southland Business Chamber has introduced a new award to honour the life and legacy of Reece McDonald, a well-known Southland business leader and community advocate. The Reece McDonald Local Legend Award will be part of the 2025 Datagrid NZ Southland Business Excellence Awards.
Reece, who served as Board President of the Chamber and was the owner of Good Tech, left a lasting mark through both his business and his unwavering community involvement. From backing grassroots sports teams to supporting local fundraisers, Reece was widely recognised for his generosity and ability to bring people together.
“This is a special tribute for a special guy,” said Reece’s wife, Joanne Sharp. “Reece had a gift for bringing people together, supporting others, and always doing the right thing — even when no one was watching. I miss him so much, but I know he would be truly honoured to be remembered this way.”
The Local Legend Award will be a people’s choice category, designed to celebrate a business owner who follows in Reece’s footsteps by giving back and building strong community connections.
The award process will take place in two stages. The first stage opens on 15 April and runs through to 15 May. During this time, the Southland public and Chamber members are invited to nominate local business owners who are making a positive impact in their communities.
Once nominations close, finalists will be chosen and public voting will begin on 1 June, closing on 20 August. The winner will be announced ahead of the Business Excellence Awards Gala Dinner on 19 September.
“This award is about celebrating the quiet heroes of our business community — those who give time, energy, and heart to make Southland a better place,” said Chamber Chief Executive Sheree Carey. “Reece did that every day, and we want to honour others who are carrying that same torch.”
Nomination forms, key dates, and more details can be found at: southlandchamber.co.nz/reece-mcdonald-local-legend