Running a successful business is difficult, but running a successful brand new business is even harder.
The Cambium is a local business in the professional services industry that is on the path to success. Owner of a newly opened business Sally Marasco knows she has learnt a lot in a very short time. She shared the importance of a clear vision and strong partnerships in generating business success.
The ‘Start-Up’ category of the Mornington Peninsula Business Excellence Awards spotlights businesses operating for less than three financial years that offers a unique or innovative product and/or service. The 2023 winner for this category was local venue hire business The Cambium.
Located in Red Hill, The Cambium is an exclusive-use venue for businesses, weddings, and private events. The space is specially curated to nurture purposeful collaboration, creative thinking and in-depth strategy, all while well away from other distractions. The 4-acre property nestled in a valley under majestic gum trees. It includes king/queen accommodation suites, a private dining room, fully equipped commercial kitchen, multi-purpose hall, outdoor fire pits and a harvest garden. Clients are invited to the venue to recharge, renew and collectively envision a better future. The team works closely with each client to personalise the experience, thoughtfully tailored to the unique intention of each visit.
Sally emphasises the need for a business to have a sound business plan and a defined point of difference. The judges found their clear direction and vision for future growth impressive. In particular, they were impressed with the established foothold The Cambium had in the professional services industry after only one year of trading.
Unlike other venue hire businesses who focus on accommodation, food and wine, The Cambium encourages professional and personal growth. To do this, The Cambium carefully selects all activities to support this philosophy. This is what helps them stand out from other businesses in the professional services industry.
You really do have to define your point of difference
The Cambium prides themselves on their inclusive approach to business, going above and beyond compliance with regulations. Initiatives like introducing braille on all amenities showcases their genuine care for the diverse needs of their clientele.
The Cambium has a selection of experiences for their clients to choose from. These include venue hire, team building activities, private dining, well-being activities, and access to their network of business consultants. The Cambium tailors these experiences for different groups, helping curate unique experiences for all clients. They pride themselves on this aspect of their service and believe it creates a true point of difference.
Their team actively collaborates with businesses in the area that share their vision. These include initiatives such as private dining experiences with leading chefs from the Mornington Peninsula, proudly showcasing local food/wine products and talent in the region. Guests are also encouraged to reach out to Cambium’s network of business consultants, who include local and global speakers and workshop facilitators.
Align yourself with great people that share your vision
The Cambium has developed strong partnerships with a range of other businesses in the area, offering their guests recreational and team building activities to elevate their Cambium experience. Partnering with local businesses has also helped them build brand awareness. Judges found their community-focused initiatives and commitment to give back to the broader community impressive.
Sally has shared some more thoughts on winning the 2023 Mornington Peninsula Business Excellence award in the ‘Start-Up’ category. To listen to the full interview, click on the video below.
The Cambium shows the success a new business can have in Mornington Peninsula. Their strong foundation of partnerships with other local businesses, combined with their clear-cut vision and defined point of difference has helped the business stand out in the professional services industry.
There were many other successful start-up businesses on the Mornington Peninsula in 2023. The highly commended business in the ‘Start Up’ category of the 2023 Mornington Peninsula Business Excellence Awards was The Green Bowl.
The Green Bowl is a salad bar based in Mount Martha. The local business offers a rotational menu featuring plant based, gluten free healthy salads and sides. Judges were impressed with their unwavering commitment to quality, health and sustainability, as well as their dedication to promoting habitual change and contribution to the green movement.
The Mornington Peninsula Business Excellence Awards is a chance for local businesses to be supported and celebrated by the community. In 2023, winners across nine diverse categories celebrated their achievements, highlighting their commitment to innovation, sustainability, and exceptional performance within our local business sector.
Content created May 2024, reviewed January 2026
