Introduced at the 2022 Deniliquin Business Excellence Awards, chamber created the award to recognise an individual who has made a significant contribution to the Deniliquin community.
It is named in honour of Mr Brennan, who died in 2021 while still Mayor of Edward River Council.
It is in recognition of his life to this community and being a “fierce defender of our values and our way of life, with a spirit that shone through in everything he did”.
Mrs Laing was specifically nominated for her role in supporting high school students on the annual Great Victorian Bike Ride over the last 15 years.
“Could you imagine giving up your own time for months beforehand to ensure students are mentally and physically ready and have all the skills, road etiquette and necessary road safety knowledge for the ride, and that they are well-prepared to endure the hazards and enjoy the benefits that come with completing such a demanding event?” her citation read.
“The Great Vic Bike ride gives students life skills such as resilience and teamwork, empathy and determination, and it is well acknowledged that students get more out of the bike ride than just physical benefits.
No teenager is knocked back from participating, and it is initiatives such as participating in the Great Vic Bike Ride that have the potential to change the direction of a teenager’s path.
“A peer whose children have had the opportunity to participate, and who has taken part in many of the Great Vic Bike Ride journeys herself, has said that she is blown away by the amount of organisation required to get students to the event.
“Also, that long before the ride starts, our award recipient is working incredibly hard to ensure Deniliquin High School upholds the fabulous reputation they have acquired over the years on the ride.”
Mrs Laing said while it was a surprise to be nominated, it was nice to receive recognition.
“The award was a surprise, I was not expecting to be receiving anything on the night,” she said.
“The kids are a privilege to work with.
“All that come along are great kids, and well behaved.
“The growth the kids make over the course of the whole process is wonderful.”
Since beginning her association with the Great Vic Bike Ride through Deni High in 2009, Mrs Laing has not missed any of the events held. The ride did take a short break during the COVID years, however.
“Sue’s level of commitment is astonishing, and it is evident in the training she does preparing the students for the ride,” her citation read.
“Beginning at the back end of last term, training one day a week since then and planning to add another two sessions a week - one out of her own time at the weekend - is an example of her level of commitment to the kids.”
Sponsored by Deniliquin Business Chamber.
