Warrumbungle Shire Council’s community care supervisor, Deanne Britton, has been awarded the David Cooley Employee of the Year Award at the Community Transport Organisation (CTO) Engage 2025 Conference held this week in Orange.
The prestigious award recognises an employee who has demonstrated outstanding achievement and leadership within their organisation, reflecting the values of teamwork, excellence, and dedication to clients.
Ms Britton was nominated by Council earlier this year in recognition of her 20 years of service and exceptional contribution to delivering equitable, safe, and responsive community transport and aged care services across the Warrumbungle Shire.
“We are incredibly proud of Deanne and her well-deserved recognition,” said Council General Manager, Mr Lindsay Mason.
“Her leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to supporting older residents have made a significant difference to the lives of many people in our community.”
Over the past two decades, Ms Britton has led the Warrumbungle Community Care team through major sector reforms, natural disasters, and the COVID-19 pandemic, always ensuring essential services remained available to those most in need. She currently leads a team of 14 staff and more than 190 volunteers who provide community transport, Meals on Wheels, home maintenance, respite, and social support services to over 800 clients across the Shire.
Her leadership and innovative approach have been recognised through numerous program awards, including accolades for service innovation in Meals on Wheels and for the organisation’s volunteer recognition initiatives.
Ms Britton attended the CTO Engage 2025 Conference and Gala Awards Dinner in Orange this week alongside colleague, Jillisa Harris, where she was announced as the winner of the David Cooley Perpetual Trophy – Employee of the Year Award.
“Deanne exemplifies the values that underpin community transport, care, connection, and dedication,” Mr Mason said.
“Her work is a credit to both the Warrumbungle Shire Council and the entire Community Transport sector.”
