‘Extraordinary contribution’: Beth Faris wins 2026 Lillian Hulbert Memorial Prize

Year 11 Narrabri High School student Beth Faris told The Courier she was ‘shocked’ and ‘pleasantly surprised’ to be named the recipient of the 2026 Lillian Hulbert Memorial Prize.

Nominated across charitable activities, academic achievements and sport, Beth’s ‘breadth of contribution’ was described as ‘extraordinary’.

“To be standing up here with all these other amazing people, the other finalists are amazing and they’re the year above me – I’m honestly pretty shocked,” said Beth.

Beth congratulated the other finalists, and the kind sentiment was reciprocated with the NHS group all graciously showing support for one another at the presentation evening held at The Crossing Theatre on Tuesday.

The other 2026 finalists for the prestigious prize included NHS students Maxine O’Connor, Ashley Morris and Alistair Dowdell.

Narrabri Shire mayor Darrell Tiemens said the judges had a “tough job” selecting this year’s winner, declaring all four students were “champions.” He gave the crowd a snapshot of their individual accomplishments and valuable contributions to our community before asking attendees for ‘a drum roll’ and announcing ‘Elizabeth Faris’ as this year’s recipient.

Beth, as she is known locally, expressed her gratitude for the recognition and support, which she said will be helpful because she hopes to attend university after completing high school.

“At the moment I’m looking at two pathways – physiotherapy or a Bachelor of International Security Studies,” she explained.

The Lillian Hulbert Memorial Prize was established in 2007 by Thomas Whipp in memory of his late mother Lillian Hulbert.

The prize is awarded annually to a Narrabri district resident aged between 15 and 18 who has shown outstanding achievements through an act of bravery or heroism, charitable work or academic or sporting achievement. The recipient is awarded $10,000, which is invested and held in a trust until they turn 21.

The prize is not only regarded as a significant contribution to a young local’s life, but it is also a lasting tribute to Mrs Hulbert’s legacy.

Cr Tiemens warmly welcomed David Willetts (grandson of Lillian Hulbert) and his wife Maria, who travelled from Dubbo to attend Tuesday night’s presentation, proudly representing the Hulbert family.

“It’s great to be back in Narrabri,” Mr Willetts said. “It’s a great honour to represent my uncle Tom…sincere apologies on behalf of my aunty Mary …who is Tom’s last remaining sibling, she is 97 next month.”

Mr Willetts said his aunt was ‘still sharp of mind’ but unable to travel to the presentation night.

“Today marks the 19th anniversary of this perpetual prize and also the birthday of my uncle Tom, who had he survived, he would have turned 95.

“Today his generosity has contributed $190,000 over 19 years, which is remarkable to benefit young people,” he said. “Uncle Tom knew the high cost of education and development, and we are fortunate that his generosity is benefiting the young achievers of Narrabri.

“So, on behalf of my uncle Tom, who has dedicated this to my grandmother – Lillian Hulbert – I look forward to presenting the award.”

Cr Tiemens and Mr Willetts congratulated Beth on being a remarkable ambassador for the region and said they looked forward to seeing the positive impact she will make in the years ahead.

Recognising the high calibre of finalists, Cr Tiemens seemed buoyed by the diverse mix, leadership and community service skills displayed by each student, reflecting a strong future for the shire.

Cr Tiemens thanked the finalists, Mr Willetts, the Hulbert family, the presentation night organisers, the selection committee and the attendees including parents, families and school community representatives who help to foster each entrant. He also urged people to apply next year.

Keen to recognise the young talent in the Narrabri Shire, Cr Tiemens listed some of the notable highlights and outstanding feats of each finalist. Below is a snapshot.

Elizabeth Faris (2026 Lillian Hulbert recipient) – Nominated across charitable activities, academic achievements and sport:

Elizabeth’s breadth of contribution is extraordinary. Through Rotary Youth Exchange, she represented Narrabri internationally in Germany and later hosted an exchange student, building cultural bridges while promoting our community abroad. She has served the Narrabri Show Society as a shadow steward and currently represents the district as the 2025 Junior Young Woman. In sport, she has competed at state titles in netball, achieved recognition in target shooting, including selection in the NIAS Future Stars program and supported junior sport through years of umpiring. Academically, Elizabeth has achieved consistent excellence. She has won innovation awards, excelled in the Da Vinci Decathlon, earning multiple school medals and received the Australian Defence Force Long Tan Award for leadership and teamwork. Her acceptance into the Hunter New England Area Health Nursing traineeship ensures she will continue serving the Narrabri community in a practical and meaningful way.

Ashley Morris – Nominated across charitable activities, academic achievements and sports:

Ashley embodies rural leadership and service. With 11 years in pony Club, representation in Australian Stockhorse competitions and Reserve Champion Senior Girl Rider Honours. She has excelled in equestrian sport. Beyond sport, Ashley is completing both a Certificate II in agriculture and a nursing traineeship pathway investing in two industries critical to our region’s future. She volunteers at a community fundraisers, mentors younger riders and gymnasts, and has publicly promoted regional education pathways, including speaking on ABC Radio about the MEDI-CHIP program. Her commitment to both agriculture and health care speak to a young person deeply invested in Narrabri’s future.

Maxine O’Connor – Nominated across charitable activities, academic achievements and sport:

Maxine’s leadership and sporting achievements are remarkable. She has represented Narrabri in netball at junior state titles, competed across multiple codes including rugby union and athletics, and has served on both the Sports Council and SRC at Narrabri High School. Her appointment as school captain for 2026 reflects the respect she has earned among her peers and teachers. Maxine has spoken at ANZAC and Remembrance Day services and actively mentors younger students demonstrating a deep sense of responsibility and civic pride.

Alistair Dowell – Nominated across charitable activities, academic achievements and sport:

Alistair has achieved strongly across academic, sport and leadership. He has represented Narrabri High School in the Da Vinci Decathlon for two consecutive years, with his team placing third overall in 2024 and achieving first place in Arts, Poetry and Legacy. He has also competed in the Science and Engineering Challenge and volunteered his time to mentor primary students in STEM activities. A selective student with Aurora College, Alistair is undertaking advanced studies including Physics and Economics for his HSC. In tennis, he has competed at the Champions of Champions event in Sydney for two consecutive years and earned the CHS Tennis Bronze Award for three consecutive years. As a Tennis Australia trainee coach and treasurer of the Narrabri Rotaract Mentorship Program, Alastair actively supports youth development and local fundraising initiatives, reflecting both personal excellence and a strong commitment to community.