Annual Lillian Hulbert Memorial Prize awarded

Published on 24 February 2024

A young person with a commitment to making a difference, including developing opportunities for students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, has been recognised at this year’s Lillian Hulbert Memorial Prize. 

Daniel Smith was awarded the 2024 Memorial Prize at a ceremony held earlier today, in recognition of his excellence in sporting achievement, education and academic achievement, as well as charitable activities. 

An active member of the sporting community, Daniel has been a member of the Narrabri Junior Soccer Club, Narrabri Stingrays Swimming Club, Narrabri Dolphins Waterpolo Club, and New England and North West Swimming. He was also on the 2024 Narrabri High School Leadership Team (Prefect), among others. 

As part of the Future EDU organisation, Daniel helps develop science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) opportunities for local students.  

He also assisted with the junior robotics program – setting up and running stalls at community events (including the Narrabri Show) and ran trialling and assisted the Narrabri Public School and St Francis Xaviers robotics programs. 

Narrabri Shire Mayor Darrell Tiemens was impressed by all finalists. 

“We had five finalists this year, all of a very high standard, and it was very difficult for the panel members to choose one winner from such an exceptional field,” Mayor Tiemens said. 

“They all demonstrated a maturity beyond their years throughout this memorial prize process. They should be very proud of their substantial achievements and their vital contribution to our community. 

“I would also like to congratulate Daniel on winning this year’s Memorial Prize,” Mayor Tiemens added. 

“His commitment and dedication to his sporting, academic and school community, not to mention his leadership in the field of STEM, is truly outstanding.” 

Established in 2007 by Mr Thomas Whipp Hulbert in memory of his mother Lillian, the Lillian Hulbert Memorial Prize is awarded annually to a young person between the ages of 15 and 18 years born in the Narrabri district.  

It recognises the outstanding achievements of a young person be it through: 

The recipient is awarded $10,000, which is invested, held in trust, and paid to the Prize winner on their 21st birthday. 

This year’s finalists for the Lillian Hulbert Memorial Prize were: William Faris, Tayla Nott, Daniel Smith (Winner), Mietta Smith and Matilda Currey

(From left to right) David Willets, Matilda Currey (finalist), Mietta Smith (finalist), Daniel Smith (recipient), William Faris (finalist), Tayla Nott was in apology but was represented by her mother Natasha Nott (in the photo), Mayor Darrell Tiemens.