More than 400 Department of Education and Training staff have been recognised for their dedication to public education, acknowledging those who have achieved 40, 45, 50 and 55 years of service in 2017.

Member for Dandenong, Gabrielle Williams, today congratulated eight local teachers on their long-serving contribution to education. The teachers recognised from Dandenong schools were:

• Kevin Mackay, 55 Years of service, Dandenong North Primary School
• Brian Rollason, 45 Years of service, Dandenong High School
• David Williams, 45 Years of service, Dandenong High School
• Leonie Fitzgerald, 45 Years of service, Dandenong South Primary School
• William Liston, 45 Years of service, Yarraman Oaks Primary School
• Karen Hawkins, 40 Years of service, Dandenong High School
• Jennifer Mackay, 40 Years of service, Dandenong North Primary School
• Brenda Brighton, 40 Years of service, Rosewood Downs Primary School

The 420 recipients from across the state have together devoted more than 17,000 years to teaching, have seen change, led progress and embraced opportunities to help young people thrive.This is a total contribution of 355 years of service for education in the Dandenong community.

As the Andrews Labor Government builds the Education State, the example led by these recipients will continue to inspire everyone to do the best for Victoria’s children and young people.