The people’s choice for businesses with more than 10 staff went to Ceduna Foreshore Hotel Motel and to Craft de Eyre for under 10 staff.

The encouragement award went to Ceduna Video and Betta Electrical, while Bill’s Chicken and Seafood won the window dressing competition.

The Wonders of the West art exhibition was won by Simon Smith with his painting of a seascape at Elliston.

Country Arts SA visual arts manager Rob Johnston, who judged the award along with Pam Diment, said the standard had “improved markedly” since he judged it several years ago.

“The decision was unanimous, put it that way,” Mr Johnston said.

“I think we came up with the same group. It wasn’t hard to come up with a unanimous decision, given that there was a good lot to choose from.”

Receiving the prize, Mr Smith said, “I’m stoked, thanks very much.”

Charmaine Fricker was second, with commendations going to Susan Merli, Warren Paul, Louise Watson and Saul Webb and Bruce Martin.

Mayor Allan Suter thanked WestArt secretary Trudi Riddle for organising the event and announced that a partnership between council, arts groups and Iluka would mean an upgrade to the Ceduna Memorial Hall foyer and its opening two days a week.