Thursday, 28 August 2025

Eastern Victoria Region community awards

Melina BATH (Eastern Victoria) (09:42): We have a fantastic teacher in our midst in Latrobe Valley: Jacquie Burrows, principal of Churchill Primary School. She has been recognised as the most outstanding educator in Victoria at the education excellence awards. Jacquie has been teaching for over 20 years, and for the past eight years she has led Churchill Primary School with a vision, a determination and an unshakable belief that all children can learn. Under her leadership the school has built an exemplary instructional culture, one that inspires teachers and lifts student outcomes even in the face of disadvantage. Congratulations to Jacquie. You are an outstanding human being, and we are so thrilled to have you in the Latrobe Valley.

Another Latrobe Valley resident Frank Bezzina received the honourable Tony Shanahan Award for services to country racing. He was presented with this award by the Pan Pacific Hotels Group. For eight years Frank has volunteered as CEO and chair of Latrobe Valley Racing Club, managing track maintenance, administrative duties and race day with dedication. He and his wife Wendy are fashionistas. They are incredibly great supporters of country racing but also of their community, and we congratulate Frank.

Finally, congratulations to Anchor Belle Holiday Park, winners of the Bass Coast People’s Choice Award for the third year running. Congratulations to Kelli and James.