North McDonald's owner Daimon Poole says there is no shortcut to success.
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"Keep doing the right thing, work hard and put in a lot of effort," he said.
"Success is about having your boots on the ground.
It's about seeing what's going on, feeling what's going on, hearing what people are saying about your business and reacting and not getting too comfortable."
Mr Poole was the winner in the 'Outstanding Business Leader' category in the Far South Coast and Capital Regional Business Awards and is now a finalist for the State Awards.
"It felt good to win the award," he said. "It is a fantastic opportunity to represent our community and business owners.
"We have got outstanding leaders in Goulburn and have got to live up to it."
For all those aspiring to be future leader, he believes it is important to work hard and set a good example for others to follow.
"Be focused. It's about having ... visible leadership," Mr Poole said.
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"As a leader, having that visibility in your business and within the community is important."
Born in Wagga Wagga, Mr Poole travelled around the world before moving to Goulburn about four years ago.
"Both me and my wife are from countryside and love living in Goulburn city," he said.
"The community here is great and people have been warm and welcoming to us.
"Goulburn presented a fantastic opportunity in terms of business.
"It is close to Sydney and Canberra, which is a significant upside for the business and community as well."
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