City director recognised for COVID-19 response

OUTGOING City of Greater Bendigo director of health and wellbeing Vicky Mason has been named among the top fifty female public sector workers in the state.

The Institute of Public Administration Australia recently announced its 2021 list, which also includes City director of corporate performance, Kerryn Ellis.

The IPAA recognises “the outstanding commitment, contribution and achievements of public sector women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership” during the COVID-19 pandemic.

City CEO Craig Niemann said Ms Mason has been crucial to the municipality’s response to the pandemic.

“Vicky, who has an extensive public health, local government and community engagement background, was the City’s pandemic coordinator and led the organisation’s response to managing the impact of COVID-19 on our work and how we could best support the community during this time,” he said.

“As [Vicky] prepares to take a break from Local Government, this is a very fitting recognition and wonderful way to end her time with the City.”

Ms Mason chaired the cluster pandemic committee which included representatives from neighbouring Shires and helped establish a pandemic relief and recovery committee.

She also donated her knowledge to help implement the new Local Government Act and form the new municipal Council Plan.

She said it was “humbling” to have her work recognised.

“I’m really proud of how the City responded to the impacts of the pandemic and the way we supported staff and the community during an extended period of uncertainty,” she said.

“I was surrounded by great people who were all committed to the same goal, and I really welcomed the challenge.

“I will leave my director role in a few months’ time pleased to have made a difference.”