Crystal Brook Business Earns National Recognition
A humble coffee and food van that has become a familiar sight at community events across the Mid North is now receiving national recognition, with Crystal Brook business Acre & Oven named a finalist in the Australian Women's Small Business Awards.
Owned and operated by Georgina Dixon, Acre & Oven has grown from a small local venture into a thriving regional business known for its artisan baked goods, quality coffee, handmade treats and strong commitment to supporting local producers. What began as a dream has evolved into a business that travels throughout the region, connecting communities through food, coffee and genuine country hospitality.
The Australian Women's Small Business Awards recognise outstanding women-led businesses from across the country, placing Acre & Oven alongside some of Australia's most successful and innovative small enterprises. For a business based in Crystal Brook, the achievement is significant and shines a national spotlight on both the town and the wider Mid North region.
When Georgina received the news, the moment was almost overwhelming. "Honestly, I really was not expecting it," she said.
“It means so much to me as a mum and woman living with a disability, that I get to represent my town and region in such an incredible national position. We truly can achieve great things, regardless of the obstacles that might be in our path to achieve them!” said Georgina.
The nomination represents more than individual business success. As a mum-run business operating in regional South Australia, Acre & Oven has built its reputation through resilience, hard work and community support. Georgina believes the recognition demonstrates that geography should never limit ambition and that regional businesses are capable of competing on a national stage.
Over the past few years, Acre & Oven has had a welcome presence at markets, community gatherings, sporting events and local celebrations. Whether serving freshly brewed coffee, homemade baked goods or catering for special occasions, the business has earned a loyal following across the region through its focus on quality products and personal service.
The recognition comes at a time when many regional communities continue to face challenges, including prolonged drought conditions. Despite this, Georgina says the support of local families and customers has been instrumental in helping Acre & Oven grow and succeed.
She believes one of the Mid North's greatest strengths is its community spirit, where people actively support local businesses and celebrate each other's achievements.
Port Pirie Regional Council Mayor Leon Stephens said Georgina's success is a source of pride for the entire region.
"Being named a national finalist is a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to Georgina's passion, hard work and determination," Mayor Stephens said.
"Her success highlights the incredible talent, innovation and resilience that exists within our regional small business community, and we are proud to see Crystal Brook represented on a national stage."
The achievement is particularly meaningful for Georgina, who will travel to Sydney next month to attend the awards gala. Regardless of the final result, she sees the nomination itself as a win for Crystal Brook, the Mid North and the broader regional business community.
Looking to the future, Georgina hopes to continue growing Acre & Oven while remaining true to its community-focused roots. One day, she dreams of opening a permanent brunch café in Crystal Brook, creating another space that celebrates local produce, local people and the unique character of the region.
For now, however, she is simply proud to represent her town and prove that great ideas can come from anywhere.
As she prepares for the awards, Georgina hopes her story encourages others, particularly women in regional areas, to back themselves and pursue their ambitions.
"If you have a dream or an idea, just give it a go. Life is too short to wonder 'what if'."
Above: Georgina Dixon holding one of her famous sourdough loaves
Below: Georgina Dixon with her extended family, including husband Elroy Dixon and their two sons, Georgina's mum Cheryl Shaw and nan Patricia Lee.
