Lisa Gawne was named Victoria’s most valued employee, while Lisa Higgs was the state’s group fitness instructor of the year.
Ms Gawne and Ms Higgs have been instrumental parts of the Mitchell Shire Council leisure services team for students, parents and residents.
The leisure team manages council’s three outdoor pools as well as the Seymour Sports and Aquatic Centre and the Kilmore Leisure Centre.
Ms Higgs said her job meant the world to her and she loved everything about it.
‘‘I am extremely proud to win this award. I love learning constantly, driving everyone to be their best and I couldn’t ask for more,’’ she said.
‘‘When they announced the award I said, ‘what, me?’
‘‘But it is amazing to hear people appreciate the work we do.’’
Ms Gawne said it was nice to work alongside the community and see everyone come back on a daily basis.
‘‘I am very proud. I have worked at Mitchell Leisure for 15 years and I have met some amazing people. I am a duty manager, lifeguard, receptionist and teacher, it is so diverse,’’ she said.
‘‘I also work with both my children and that is amazing. They have the same dedication to their work as I do.’’
Mitchell Shire mayor Bill Chisholm said he was tremendously proud of the hard work and dedication shown by Ms Higgs and Ms Gawne.
‘‘To pick up both the most valued employee and group fitness instructor of the year is an honour and proves Mitchell Shire Council is one of the state’s industry leaders,’’ he said.
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