Bellarine is home to two of Victoria’s longest-serving teachers, who have been recognised for their dedication to schools, students and families with a Recognition of Service to Victorian Education honour.

Recently, Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant visited Cheryl Hair at Leopold Primary School to celebrate their 40 years of service and Christine Layley at St Leonards Primary School to celebrate their 45 years of service to public education.

In May, the Minister for Education Ben Carroll congratulated 275 staff, including Cheryl and Christine, on being honoured for 40, 45, 50 and 55 years of service to public education in Victoria at an official celebration at the Pullman Melbourne.

Statewide, 166 people are being honoured for 40 years of service, 49 for 45 years, 49 for 50 years and 11 for 55 years.

The Allan Labor Government is making a record investment in school workforce initiatives to attract, recruit, support and retain teachers and support staff, ensuring a strong and sustainable school workforce well into the future.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Ben Carroll

“I thank all the long-serving teachers and staff being recognised for their contribution to education in Victoria that has spanned multiple generations.”

“I know everyone in Bellarine join us in offering their congratulations to these dedicated professionals, who have spent decades tirelessly supporting our children and young people.”

“Long-serving teachers and support staff are the backbone of our education system and I congratulate those being honoured this year on their well-deserved recognition.”

Quote attributable Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant:

"The teachers being honoured for their service have helped deliver a world class education to countless students in Bellarine. We thank them for their hard work and dedication to our schools and the local community."