Shire stalwart in Statewide award

A Shire of Manjimup employee has been recognised by the WA Local Government Association for her contribution to local government.

Director of community services Gail Ipsen Cutts received the Distinguished Officer Award as part of WALGA’s 2020 Honours Program.

Ms Ipsen Cutts has been with the Manjimup shire for 19 years and has been in her current position for the past 15.

“It means a lot, it’s a big surprise because you don’t work in the community sector and expect recognition, it’s just part of what you do,” she said.

“I’ve always thought that I have one of the best jobs in the world, I get the privilege of working with the community to create a liveable community and a better community, and you can’t ask for a better job than that.”

During her time at the shire, Ms Ipsen Cutts has been a part of the development of projects including the Wellness and Respite Community Centre, Manjimup Seniors Housing Project, the Manjimup Heritage Park revitalisation and the State Timber Museum refurbishment.

“Not only do I have an amazing senior team to work with, but the community services staff and everyone that has been involved with everything I’ve been involved with have just been phenomenal,” she said.

“You can’t achieve anything on your own, you have to have people behind you and supporting you.”