Winchelsea accommodation provider Countrywide Cottages has won the Geelong Chamber of Commerce Micro Business Award for 2008. Announced at the end of July, the judges commented that "This is a very switched-on, multifaceted business in a competitive market, which has increased its occupancy in the past two years. Countrywide Cottages has a strong base of return customers and has created a niche market by accommodating families, pets and people with disabilities."

Countrywide Cottages owner Di Schulze is an active member of the Winchelsea & District Tourism and Traders Association , and keen to realise Winchelsea's potential for tourism income. Countrywide Cottages is located in Bambra, and has achieved a four-star rating for its four fully self-contained cottages.

The Geelong Advertiser Business Excellence Awards program is run annually, with a range of sponsored categories. Overall winner for 2008 was Truffleduck , the catering and reception venue business in Fyansford. Congratulations to Di Schulze and her team at Countrywide Cottages for a magnificent win in a very competitive industry.