Brewarrina Shire Council is proud to congratulate team member Chris Frail on being awarded Construction and Energy Student of the Year at the 2026 TAFE NSW Gili Awards.

A long‑serving member of the Council team, Chris was recognised for his exceptional commitment to training, leadership and community service. The Gili Awards celebrate the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, staff and programs across TAFE NSW, with Chris one of only 14 recipients honoured statewide.

Chris first joined Brewarrina Shire Council in 2011 and has quickly progressed through the organisation, recently stepping into the role of Team Leader after completing his plumbing qualification as a mature age student through TAFE NSW Tamworth. He is now undertaking a Certificate IV in Plumbing Operations to further strengthen his skills.

Beyond his technical ability, Chris is known within Council for his generosity, patience and willingness to support younger team members. His natural leadership and passion for mentoring have helped build confidence and capability across the entire team.

Brewarrina Shire Council General Manager David Kirby said Chris’s achievement reflects both his personal determination and the positive influence he has on those around him.

“On behalf of Council and our whole region, I want to congratulate Chris on this outstanding and well‑deserved recognition. His hard work, dedication and willingness to take on new challenges have been evident from the moment he joined 15 years ago,” said Mr Kirby.

“What makes Chris truly stand out is not just his skill, but his character. He is generous with his time, patient with our younger staff and always willing to share his knowledge. He leads by example, and the impact he has had on the whole team is something we value enormously.

“Chris is also a very humble – he kept his nomination very quiet – which makes this achievement all the more special. He is a is a role model for our organisation and our community. We are incredibly proud of him and look forward to supporting him as he continues to grow in his career.”

Chris completed his training through monthly one‑week blocks at TAFE NSW Tamworth, gaining the technical skills and confidence needed for his new leadership role within Council’s water and plumbing operations.

Brewarrina Shire Council extends its warmest congratulations to Chris.