"We had many people coming and congratulating us on what we have done, and what we are doing in giving people like Mark a job and purpose in life," he said.
"Although we didn't win, I think we did benefit from the exposure in many ways.
"The Z bloke who won our category was brilliant. He has around 14 stations around the Waikato and employs at least one person with a disability per station, by the sounds of it, so a very worthy winner and we shouldn't be ashamed in losing to him.
"Jan and Amanda from Workbridge accompanied us and we shared a table, so Wanganui was well represented."
Workbridge nominated both businesses for the award and Ms Lawton said the ceremony was an uplifting experience.
"It was the first time I have attended the awards and it was good for the soul. Not only was it great to see employers getting recognition for providing opportunities for workers with disabilities but it was fantastic to see the achievements of awardees in other categories.
"Employers who take our clients on know the benefits and rewards - it's good for them, their employees and good for the country.
"Other employees in those workplaces feel secure, because they see their employer isn't likely to dump them if they should become disabled."
There were eight awards presented at the ceremony for sporting and artistic endeavours, spirit, making a difference and a new junior award for nominees under 14 years old.
The People's Choice Award was won by Aucklander Jessica Quinn, a 21-year-old fashion student who has a prosthetic leg and makes fashionable and interchangeable prosthetic leg covers.
The Hall of Fame award went to IHC stalwart John Baldwin (JB) Munro.