Baker was named the 2024 Female Volunteer of the Year by the Victoria Country Commission of Basketball Victoria for her services in facilitating growth and dedication to Echuca basketball.
A club stalwart, Baker has been president of Echuca Basketball Association for the past three years and off and on the committee for two decades, having first become heavily involved with the club when she was 13.
The criteria for the award was volunteering, dedication to the club, growing the club, being proactive and organising programs.
Baker was initially confused by the email she received about the Victoria Country Commission awards, thinking she was just nominated, but upon second inspection realised she had won the honour.
She emphasised that while she was proud to be bestowed with the award, it was a team effort and she wouldn’t have been able to do it without strong committee support.
“I initially thought I was nominated, and then I read the email again and realised I had actually won and went into a little bit of shock, but obviously extremely proud,” she said.
“I wouldn’t be able to do any of this without the team behind me as well, I don’t do it for the recognition, but it is nice to know we are being acknowledged for the good work we are doing at Echuca Basketball Association.”
Social media reaction to her award win was positive, with plenty of congratulatory messages flooding in.
Baker highlighted how being recognised for her efforts reassured her that all the time and energy she poured into the club every day was worth it.
“It was really nice to see all those messages of congratulations, you get told that you do a good job, but it’s that reassurance that we are doing everything we can for basketball in the area,” she said.
“It’s great to have the feedback so we know we are going in the right direction, and people are happy with how we are travelling.
“It makes all the hours of planning and organising worth it, but the passion and love for it is still there and won’t be leaving any time soon.”
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