All votes must be submitted to the Examiner, either online or to the Raymond Terrace office, no later than 5pm on Wednesday, August 7 in order to be counted.

Thousands of votes have been submitted since voting opened on July 4, said Port Stephens Examiner sales manager Bradley Burgoyne.

"Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to vote for their favourite business," he said.

"Each year we are overwhelmed by the support the public shows for the fantastic businesses in Port Stephens and this year is no different. Every vote does count so make sure you get yours in."

Votes can be lodged through the Examiner's website or in hard copy to voting boxes located at:

Only one vote per person, per category will be counted. Voters go in the draw to win a $1000 shopping voucher to MarketPlace Raymond Terrace.

The voter prize will be drawn at the awards night, which will be held at Shoal Bay Country Club on Wednesday, October 16.

Awards judging will be done between August 12 and September 6. Afterwards, the five finalists in the 40 categories will be contacted.

Award winners will be announced at the gala dinner ceremony, including the overall winner who will win an advertising package with the Examiner worth more than $15,000.

For more information on how to participate in the Annual Business Awards, and for downloadable resources, click here.

To be taken to the Annual Business Awards online voting portal, click here.