Media Release: Six staff. 119 years of service to Warren Shire Council
18 September 2026
Six Warren Shire Council employees with a combined 119 years of service have been recognised for their contribution to the Warren Shire community.
Bec Christian, Carmen Anderson, Michael George, Larry Wilson, Wendy Haywood and Mitchell Wilson were recognised for long-service milestones ranging from 10 to 34 years, representing decades of experience across almost every corner of Council.
Leading this year's milestones is Mitchell Wilson, who has proudly served Warren Shire Council for 34 years.
Mitchell commenced as a casual employee in 1992 and has since worked across a remarkable range of Council operations. His career spans 10 years on the Tar Truck, several years with the Bridge Crew and many years as Light Plant Operator (Town), including operating the slasher and helping maintain Warren's town approaches.
Over the years, Mitchell has operated water trucks, sweepers, mowers and tractors, worked at the Cemetery, assisted the plumbing team and regularly stepped into other roles when needed to help keep Council operations moving.
That willingness to lend a hand has also been a big part of Mitchell’s life outside Council.
Mitchell has volunteered for 19 years with the Rural Fire Service, 15 years with the State Emergency Service and five years with Fire and Rescue NSW.
Warren Shire Council General Manager Gary Woodman congratulated Mitchell on an exceptional 34 years with Council.
"Over 34 years, Mitchell has worked across so many areas of Council and has always been willing to lend a hand and get the job done," Mr Woodman said.
"To have also given so much of his own time to the RFS, SES and Fire and Rescue NSW is something he should be very proud of.”
Mr Woodman said the six Long Service Award recipients represented an extraordinary depth of experience within Council.
“Between them, Bec, Carmen, Michael, Larry, Wendy and Mitchell have given 119 years of service to Warren Shire Council.
“That’s 119 years of knowledge, experience and people turning up each day to do their part for our community. We’re very fortunate to have them as part of our team.”
Bec Christian was recognised for 10 years of service, having commenced as a Creditors Clerk in 2016. Since then, she has continued to broaden her experience across Service NSW, records, administration and project delivery, most recently undertaking Acting Health and Development Officer responsibilities.
Carmen Anderson marked 15 years with Warren Shire Library, where she has become a familiar face to generations of local families through Baby Rhyme Time, Storytime, school holiday activities and community outreach, while contributing across many other areas of library services.
Three employees celebrated 20 years of service.
Michael George has spent much of his two decades with Council working in water and sewer operations. As Treatment Plant Operator, Michael has contributed to major infrastructure projects across the Shire and plays an important role in water testing to help ensure Warren and Nevertire have access to a safe and reliable drinking water supply.
Larry Wilson has worked across Parks and Gardens, road maintenance and, since 2021, the Ewenmar Waste Depot. As Waste Depot Operator, Larry takes considerable pride in maintaining the facility to a high standard, with its cleanliness and presentation attracting positive comments from visitors to the Shire.
Wendy Haywood commenced as Pool Manager in September 2006 and has spent the past 20 years contributing to the Warren community through local school swimming programs and carnivals, Learn to Swim programs and community activities, while overseeing the day-to-day operation and development of the Warren Swimming Pool facilities.
Mr Woodman congratulated all six recipients and thanked them for their ongoing contribution.
"Whether it is maintaining essential infrastructure and public facilities, delivering community programs or working behind the scenes to keep projects and services moving, Rebecca, Carmen, Michael, Larry, Wendy and Mitchell have each played their part in serving our community,” Mr Woodman said.
“We’re proud to recognise their achievements and thank them for dedicated service to our organisation and community."
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For more information, please contact:
Gary Woodman General Manager, Warren Shire Council
Email: gary.woodman@warren.nsw.gov.au
Phone: 02 6847 6600
Download a PDF of the media release.