The awards will be launched at the Lightning Ridge Bowling Club next Friday at 6pm when businesses will have the opportunity to pick up information and application packs.

A similar launch will be held in Walgett on the same night and the awards, which recognise business excellence, are open to all businesses in the Shire.

Tourism Development officer for Walgett Shire Council Alana Douglas said the nomination process was very straightforward with categories in Business Presentation, Customer Service, and Business Innovation.

"These business awards are designed specifically to encourage small business to self examine their business strengths, weaknesses, staff and future development goals, while aiming to maintain a viable and sustainable business community," she said.

The winner of the Most Outstanding Business will be awarded a return airfare from Dubbo to Sydney and an accommodation voucher. The awards will be launched by the Walgett Shire Council and the Orana Area Consultative Committee (ACC).

Orana ACC Project officer Lorraine Holland said the regional awards had expanded this year to include the towns of Nyngan, Bourke, Walgett Shire and Coonamble.

"The Outstanding Business winner from each town will compete for the Orana Area Consultative Committee Regional Business Excellence Award to be announced at the Dubbo Rhino Business Awards on October 28," she said.

Nominations open on August 1 and close on August 26.