Warrumbungle Community Care Supervisor Deanne Britton has been recognised on the statewide stage, taking out the David Cooley Employee of the Year Award at the Community Transport Organisation (CTO) Engage 2025 Conference in Orange in October.

The award is one of the sector’s highest honours, celebrating an employee who has demonstrated exceptional achievement, leadership, teamwork and dedication to clients.

Deanne was nominated by Warrumbungle Shire Council earlier this year in recognition of her 20 years of service and her long-standing commitment to delivering equitable, safe and responsive community transport and aged care services across the Shire.

Warrumbungle Shire Council General Manager Lindsay Mason said the accolade reflects the profound impact Deanne has had on the region.

“We are incredibly proud of Deanne and her well-deserved recognition," she said.

"Her leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to supporting older residents have made a significant difference to the lives of many people in our community.”

Across two decades, Deanne has guided the Warrumbungle Community Care team through major changes, including sector reforms, natural disasters and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Warrumbungle Shire Council General Manager Lindsay Mason took over the role in March this year and quickly noticed the amazing contributions of Warrumbungle Community Care Supervisor Deanne Britton.

Despite these pressures, she has consistently ensured essential services remained available to the residents who rely on them most.

She now leads a team of 14 staff and more than 190 volunteers who deliver community transport, Meals on Wheels, home maintenance, respite and social support to over 800 clients throughout the Shire.

Her leadership has seen the organisation earn a string of program awards, including recognition for innovation in Meals on Wheels and initiatives acknowledging the contributions of volunteers.

Deanne attended this week’s CTO Engage conference and gala dinner in Orange alongside colleague Jillisa Harris, where she was formally announced as the recipient of the David Cooley Perpetual Trophy – Employee of the Year.

Mr Mason said the honour reflects the values that define the community transport sector.

“Deanne exemplifies the values that underpin community transport, care, connection and dedication.

"Her work is a credit to both the Warrumbungle Shire Council and the entire Community Transport sector.”

The David Cooley Award is presented annually by the Community Transport Organisation, the peak body for community transport providers across New South Wales.

It commemorates the late David Cooley, former Operations Coordinator at Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Community Transport, whose legacy continues to inspire excellence across the industry.