Shell LiveWire Young Entrepreneur of the Year (NI) 2003
Rossa Dumigan, who established Garden Adventures in Portaferry in 2002, fought off competition from eight other finalists to win the recognition, which will give an extra edge to his business.

Rossa began his working life as a civil engineer and carved a successful career working on large scale projects in several established companies.

However, he decided to make a change of career and begin manufacturing and installing adventure play equipment, including tree houses and themed playgrounds.
The competition, which was open to young people aged 16 - 30, recognises young people who take a risk and set up their own businesses.

The director of Shell LiveWire, Gerry Ford said: "The awards serve to highlight the energy, enthusiasm and positive outlook of young people in business in an effort to celebrate and inspire others to explore entrepreneurship".

Explaining why the judges chose Rossa, he said: "Rossa's commitment, determination and enthusiasm shines through in his work and makes him a worthy recipient of this prestigious title".


Bank of Scotland Business Growth Challenge Winner 2003
The Challenge is sponsored by the Royal Bank of Scotland and is aimed at those people who are involved in running of small businesses as owners, directors or partners.

It is designed to provide an opportunity for them to consider how they operate as individuals and how they can use people management techniques to improve their business.


Ards Best New Business Award 2003
Established by Ards Borough Council and sponsored by a range of private and public sector bodies, the 2003 Awards brought together a diverse range of local industry to celebrate individual successes and their contribution to the local economy.

Portaferry man Rossa Dumigan had cause for celebration after his fourteen month old business 'Garden Adventures', which manufactures and installs adventure play equipment, scooped the Best New Business Award.

Speaking after the ceremony, the 27 year old said the recognition created by such an initiative was a source of great encouragement. "I am a one man business and this type of award is a great bonus as it gives me more belief and confidence in my ideas and ambitions".