Tributes are flowing on the official retirement of Brewarrina Shire Council's long-serving staff members, colleague and friend Hilary Hertslet.

She retires on 31 August 2025 after an extraordinary 35 years of dedicated service.

Brewarrina Shire Council General Manager David Kirby said her contribution to Council and to the community of Brewarrina has been nothing short of remarkable.

“Over the decades, she has not only helped Council achieve progress through her hard work, knowledge and commitment, but she has also been a mentor, guide and supporter to countless staff members along the way," said Mr Kirby.

"Many of us, myself included, owe much of our professional development to Hilary’s encouragement and guidance.

"I will never forget walking into Council as a shy 18-year-old, hiding in the corner and unsure of my place, only to be welcomed and supported by Hilary, who helped me come out of my shell and feel at home in this workplace.

"That same generosity of spirit and willingness to help others has been the hallmark of her career."

Mrs Hertslet said she was blessed to be at Brewarrina Council serving her community.

‘’The opportunities Council has given me - the training, support, growth and the learning opportunities - has been great.

"I feel grateful to have been part of such an incredible team.

"I'm looking forward to enjoying this next stage of my life - I've been incredibly emotional and humbled by all the kind words and memories."

General Manager David Kirby.

She says the spirit of teamwork and the variety of opportunities are among what she most enjoyed.

"I've worked across almost every department - first working in what was called the Australian Country Information Service in the 70s.

"I came back in the 90s and started at the front counter, 11 years looking after Centrelink, and then moved into Finance, rates and worked my way up to Team Leader,'' Mrs Hertslet said.

“Beyond her work at Council, Hilary has also been a tireless contributor to the community," Mr Kirby said.

"She has given her time freely and meaningfully to countless sporting groups and local committees, whether it was selling raffle tickets, organising events, or running the footy tipping competition.

"Her community-based approach to life has served her well throughout her working life and is something she will no doubt continue into her retirement.

“Hilary’s legacy is one of service, generosity, and care for her colleagues, for Council, and for the wider community. While we will miss her presence in the office, we know she leaves behind a culture of teamwork and community spirit that will continue to inspire us all."

Hilary is now looking forward to having the time and freedom to roam.

''I am looking forward to spending more time with family, visiting my children and my grandchildren, doing the things you don't often have time to while working full time.

"I'm hoping to also do some travel and spend some time overseas.

"Ireland next year is the first stop, and where from there, I'm not sure, but I'm very excited to have the time to plan and discover.

"It's been an incredible journey, working with some truly amazing people who have been and are friends for life.

"I loved working as a team - supporting others, getting support from others when I needed help," Hilary told the Western Plains App.