Awards & Recognition
We're pleased to award members who have demonstrated excellence in business and community involvement. Check out our recent award winners below!
The Marie Green Award for Excellence in Business
The Marie Green Award for Excellence in Business Award was created by the Labrador West Chamber as a perpetual award in recognition of the late Marie Green, who served as Chamber President and was an active member of the Chamber for many years.
As well as this, Marie operated her own business in the retail sector. She returned to University to study law and upon completion of her law degree, set up her own law firm in Labrador West.
Marie was a community minded individual who was very involved in many organizations in the Labrador West area.
2026 Winners - Brian & Dave Hurley, Iron Rock Brewing Co.
This year's recipient of the Marie Green Award for Excellence in Business is a homegrown operation that has defied the odds of business ownership in the North through equal parts grit, creativity, and genuine love for this community. They took on a 4,600 square foot space with limited resources, completed much of the build-out themselves, and went from demolition to opening day in just six months. In the years since, they have weathered a global pandemic, record interest rates, supply chain chaos, and the unique logistical challenges that come with doing business in Labrador - and they have come out the other side stronger, more innovative, and more deeply woven into the fabric of this community than ever. If you've spent any time in Labrador West, chances are their work has crossed your path - whether you knew it or not. When Brian and Dave Hurley opened Iron Rock Brewing Co., they didn't just bring craft beer to Labrador West - they built something the community didn't know it needed: a gathering place, a creative platform, and a made-in-Labrador brand that has put the Big Land on the map. Since opening their doors, the Hurleys have grown production from 50,000 litres to over 90,000 litres annually, expanded their market presence across Newfoundland and Labrador and into New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, and grown revenue by 75% - all while keeping overhead growth to under 7%. They've created full-time, part-time, and seasonal jobs in a competitive labour market, and done so with the kind of resourcefulness and resilience that defines business in the north. Sewer backups, a global pandemic, supply chain disruptions, and the relentless logistics of remote operations have all been met with creativity, determination, and what the team calls ritualized ingenuity. But the numbers only tell part of the story. Iron Rock has become one of Labrador West's most treasured places - a space where newcomers and long-timers connect, where local artists and musicians find a stage, and where thousands of dollars in community giving has flowed quietly and consistently to food banks, local athletes, students, and families facing hardship. The taproom has been a launchpad for community events, a home for local makers, and a conduit for initiatives like the Oddball Bazaar, which has since grown well beyond their walls.
2025 Winners - Tobin Family, Tobin’s Convenience
The Award for 2025 goes to a family that has been proudly serving the Labrador West region through multiple businesses for the past decade, establishing themselves as a cornerstone of the local small business community. With commitment to excellence, they have continuously enhanced the quality of life in the area. We would like to congratulate Tobin’s Convenience for winning the Marie Green Award for Excellence in Business for 2024. As Tobin’s celebrate their tenth anniversary in May, their remarkable growth and success are a testament to their hard work and dedication. Trevor, Brenda and Ed have poured their hearts into expanding their business, always engaging with customers, listening to their needs, and going above and beyond to source the products that matter most to the community. The Tobins have operated four stores in the region: Tobin’s Convenience, Tobin’s Mini Mart, Tobin’s Food Truck, and High North. Currently they are expanding Tobin’s Convenience into a locally-owned grocery store, a much-needed additional resource in the area. When the community expressed this, Tobin’s took action, broadening their range of products to meet those needs. What began as a local soft-serve ice cream shop has blossomed into a fully-blown grocery outlet, offering fresh vegetables, baked goods, meats, seafood, and unique international products, including international specialties. The international community, in particular, has benefited from the Tobins’ attention to detail. They’ve made a point of sourcing traditional foods, fulfilling specific requests from those missing familiar tastes of home. This responsiveness to customer feedback is just one example of the Tobins’ unwavering commitment to supporting the diverse needs of the community. Tobin’s business philosophy is rooted in giving back. They regularly provide gift certificates for local graduations, sponsoring a variety of sports teams, and support numerous local causes. From sponsoring youth sports teams like junior high basketball to supporting the local Filipino community Christmas events, Tobin’s continues to contribute to the betterment of Labrador West. Their monthly donations to the Lions Club for the Sunday chocolate bar distribution to the hospital and support for the local food bank are just a few ways they continue to serve their neighbours. Whether it’s through catering local events, offering meals during fundraisers, or donating to local organizations, the Tobins have earned a reputation for being a business that truly cares. Their generosity was also evident during difficult times. During the evacuation, Tobin’s donated all their freshly made products to the fire department, and they ensured hot meals were provided to postal workers on strike and to the Canadian Tire team after a fire damaged their store. Their consistent response to the community’s needs in challenging times speaks volumes about their commitment to Labrador West. This award would not be complete without acknowledging Krissy, an essential member of the Tobin family. Her creativity, dedication, and love for the children of the community were instrumental in shaping Tobin’s into what it is today. Her legacy is certainly alive and well, as the charitable efforts Krissy championed continue to benefit local children’s organizations. Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, Tobin;s is excited about new opportunities for growth and continues to be committed to serving Labrador West. With a deep appreciation for their community and the legacy of those who have helped shape their success, the Tobins look forward to many more years of service and support in the region.
2024 Winner - Dion Temple, Twin City Distributors
During a time where sustainability is at the forefront, Dion Temple, the strategic leader behind Twin City Distributors Inc., has not only steered his company through triumphs and trials but has also extended his commitment to the community through the Twin City Green Depot. This Newfoundland and Labrador-based, independent, licensed owner-operator has become a pivotal player in the province's Used Beverage Container Recycling program, embodying Dion's dedication to a greener future. Twin City Green Depot, among the 53 locations in the province, stands out as a beacon of environmental responsibility. Over its four years of operation in Labrador West under the ownership and operation of Dion and Vanessa Temple, the depot has become a vital hub in the community's recycling efforts. In the span of 12 months alone, the Twin City Green Depot in Labrador West collected a remarkable 5.3 million units. Beyond beverage container recycling, Twin City Green Depot has forged strategic partnerships to expand its environmental impact. Collaborating with Cascade, the depot aids in the recycling of cardboard from the local Walmart, contributing to a more comprehensive approach to sustainability. The partnership with Hebert's Recycling in the used tire program has resulted in the collection of over 10,000 tires annually, shipped to St. John’s for responsible processing. In November, Twin City Green Depot reaffirmed its commitment to environmental stewardship by relocating and extending its agreement with the Multi-Materials Stewardship Board (MMSB) for another 10 years. Operating six days a week with a staff of five, the Twin City Green Depot continues to serve the communities of Labrador West. Dion Temple's journey, recognized with the Marie Green Business Award, has been one of triumphs and unwavering commitment. Beyond this recognition, Dion's impact on the community is immeasurable. Twin City Distributors Inc., Twin City Green Depot, and Temple’s Funeral Home, collectively owned and operated by Dion and Vanessa, have not only created jobs but have also been vital contributors to local initiatives. From supporting community events to ensuring responsible waste management, Dion's businesses have woven themselves into the very fabric of Labrador West, leaving an enduring legacy of sustainable practices and community engagement. As we celebrate Dion's 20-year entrepreneurial milestone, let us also applaud his significant contributions to environmental excellence and community enrichment. His story, intertwined with the success of Twin City Green Depot, stands as an inspiration for future entrepreneurs and environmental stewards alike. Explore more about their operations on the Twin City Green Depot Facebook page or learn about provincial recycling initiatives at www.mmsb.nl.ca.
2021 Winner - Tracey West, Tracey West Financial Planning
Tracey West, CFP®, CLU®, RRC® is a financial advisor with more than 22 years of experience helping individuals, families, and business owners build financial confidence and long-term security. Licensed since 2004, she provides comprehensive, planning-focused financial advice across Newfoundland and Labrador. At the heart of Tracey's practice is a genuine commitment to helping people. She understands that financial planning is about more than numbers, it's about families, goals, opportunities, and peace of mind. For more than two decades, she has helped clients navigate life's milestones and challenges, providing trusted guidance that empowers them to make informed decisions and build a secure future. Drawing on her expertise in financial planning, investments, insurance, retirement, tax, and estate strategies, Tracey creates personalized plans tailored to each client's needs. She works with individuals, families, and business owners across Newfoundland and Labrador, helping them protect what matters most and achieve their long-term goals with confidence. Through a combination of professional expertise, innovative planning tools, and a compassionate approach, she has earned the trust of clients who value not only her knowledge, but her genuine care for their success and well-being. Throughout her career, Tracey has been recognized for her leadership, expertise, and commitment to client service. In 2016, she was named one of Canada's Top 50 Women of Influence in Financial Services by the Insurance and Investment Journal. She holds the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU®), and Registered Retirement Consultant (RRC®) designations, reflecting her dedication to professional excellence and ongoing learning. As a business owner and leader, Tracey is committed to fostering a positive and collaborative workplace where team members are encouraged to learn, grow, and contribute to the success of the organization. She embraces innovation, continually adopting new technologies and processes that enhance the client experience and strengthen the services her team provides. Her resilience, adaptability, and commitment to excellence have enabled her business to thrive through changing economic conditions and industry challenges. Tracey believes strongly in service, leadership, and giving back. She is the recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition of her contributions to her community. She currently serves as Chair of the Community Business Development Corporation (CBDC) Labrador and has volunteered with numerous organizations throughout the region. At the heart of Tracey's work are the values that guide her life: family, community, integrity, and service. She is dedicated to helping clients develop thoughtful financial strategies that provide greater clarity, confidence, and peace of mind for the future.
Join Us
​Becoming a member of the Labrador West Chamber of Commerce connects your business to a strong network of local leaders, businesses, and community partners.
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Chamber membership provides opportunities to build relationships, strengthen business skills, gain valuable information, and increase your visibility within the region.
Members play an active role in supporting economic growth and contributing to a thriving Labrador West.