Long serving employees congratulated by Council
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.
“This is a remarkable achievement and something both our employees, and Council as an employer, can be proud of,” 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.
“In my time at Council, we have upgraded our Library system, implemented public computers, the internet and Wi-Fi.
“I am incredibly proud of the many achievements we have made, including two beautiful, modern Libraries and look forward to the future of public libraries in the Lockyer Valley,” she said.
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.
“My interactions with the community, fellow Council employees and Council itself have combined to form a great experience throughout my time with the organisation.
“I am proud to be a Lockyer Valley Regional Council employee and am looking forward to the future.”
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.
Katie’s role has evolved over the years, transitioning from initially fronting the Library’s customer service to now also running the Lockyer Valley Art Gallery with her Coordinator Nicole Kilah.
“Recently I’ve taken on more responsibility at the Gallery, from doing the admin, coordinating, and installing exhibitions to serving drinks at the opening functions,” she said.
Katie attributes her longevity with Council to one thing – the people.
“The people I work with are the reason I’ve chosen to stay with the organisation this long.
“I work with some fantastic people, not just the Library team but other colleagues across the organisation.
“I wouldn’t be able to do my job without their support.”
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.
