An innovative design company with a passion for giving back, a transformational project supporting new mothers, and a First Nations cafe championing sustainable practices have taken top honours at this year’s City of Melbourne Lord Mayor’s Small Business Awards.
North Melbourne design studio Seesaw was crowned Small Business of the Year – recognised for its outstanding creativity and positive community impact.
Founded in 2005 by designers Anita McArthur and Matthew McKenzie (both pictured), Seesaw is a strategic brand, design and digital agency. Beyond its commercial work, the studio dedicates significant resources to pro bono projects and donates to causes close to their hearts – including gender equality, mental health, sustainability, equitable education and affordable housing.
“To be recognised, not only for our longevity but also for the impact we have made, is wonderful. This city has shaped us, and in return, we are grateful to have contributed culturally and economically,” said Ms McArthur.
Through this model, Seesaw has supported organisations such as Smiling Mind, the Victorian Pride Centre, the Australian Gender Equality Council, CERES Environmental Park and Joy FM.
“Melbourne’s small businesses are the city’s beating heart – loved locally, celebrated globally, and deeply connected to our community,” said Lord Mayor, Nick Reece.
“Seesaw proves design isn’t just beautiful, it drives change, strengthens communities and makes a real difference.”
“From Lygon Street to Bourke Street Mall and Docklands, Melbourne is buzzing with business – with almost 85% of shopfronts now filled by a mix of global names, national brands and much-loved independents.”
Joining Seesaw on the podium was Parkville organisation Maternal and Infant Wellbeing Melbourne (MIWM) – winner of this year’s Small Business Innovation Award.
MIWM is transforming the way new families experience pre- and post-natal care, bringing GPs, paediatricians, physiotherapists, dietitians, sleep consultants and nurses together under one roof to provide truly comprehensive support.
Meanwhile, the inspiring team behind CBD cafe Ngarrgu Djerring received the inaugural Small Social Enterprise Award.
Founded by social entrepreneur and former Olympian Kyle Vander-Kuyp, Ngarrgu Djerring is creating opportunities for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people facing adversity.
The awards also recognised 53 business owners who have operated in the City of Melbourne for more than 10, 20 and even 40 years, including:
- City Hatters – the iconic hat store beneath the Flinders Street clocks
- Henry Bucks – premium menswear on Collins Street
- Books for Cooks – a beloved foodie bookshop at Queen Victoria Market
- Marche Board Game Cafe – a board game and karaoke hotspot on A’Beckett Street
- RuYi Modern Chinese – fine dining on Liverpool Street
“These awards celebrate Melbourne icons – from City Hatters beneath the famous Flinders Street clocks to Marche Board Game Cafe, where coffee and laughter go hand in hand,” said City Economy and Business portfolio head, Kevin Louey.
