An organisation is only as strong as its people, and that saying certainly rings true for Lockyer Valley Regional Council.
Sixteen employees with 320 years’ combined service were yesterday recognised by Council at its annual Long Serving Employees celebration.
This year marked a milestone for the employees, who were acknowledged for reaching 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and an incredible 40 years’ service.
Lockyer Valley Regional Council CEO, Ian Church proudly acknowledged the exceptional commitment and dedication of Council’s long-serving staff members.
“I am very proud of what all Council employees deliver for this community. Our long-serving employees offer stability and are an invaluable support system throughout Council,” he said.
Coordinator Libraries and Galleries, Nicole Kilah started with Council soon after completing high school.
“At the time, I was looking for a local job and certainly didn’t think the Library would become a lifetime career.
“Working in our Libraries is very much a customer facing role, which is just one of the reasons I fell in love with my job,” she said.
Nicole graduated as a Library Technician in 1999. Fast-forward 11 years and she qualified as a Librarian. During that time, Nicole’s role changed from a Library Assistant to Library Operations Assistant, and then a move to Laidley as Branch Coordinator. In 2022, she transferred back to Gatton and became the Coordinator Libraries and Galleries.
Senior Local Laws Officer Darryl Simpson, who started with Council in 2009, said the last 15 years have provided a good mixture of challenges for both him and his team.
“By far the most memorable experience was being a part of the region’s 2011 flood recovery,” he said.
Library and Gallery Officer Katie Pegg, who has just clocked up 15 years, started with the organisation as a Library Trainee straight from school – and has stayed ever since.
For information on how you can start your career at Lockyer Valley Regional Council, visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/current-vacancies or contact 1300 005 872.
