Shire locals acknowledged in parliament

DYLAN SMITH
The efforts of three Narrabri Shire residents have been acknowledged in state parliament.

Local show identity Francis Drysdale, former Narrabri RSL Memorial & Citizens Club (Club Narrabri) board vice-president Gary Mason and PhD student MD Saleh Uddin were congratulated by Member for Barwon Roy Butler on their contributions to the community and various organisations.

Drysdale recently enjoyed success at the Sydney Royal Easter Show, winning the District Exhibits Competition for the third consecutive year.

“This remarkable accomplishment reflects Francis’s dedication, creativity, and commitment to showcasing the strength and pride of regional New South Wales,” Butler said.

Gary Mason has been recognised in NSW Parliament for two decades of service to the Narrabri RSL Memorial & Citizens Club board and his contribution to the local community. Photo: Supplied.

“To achieve success at such a prestigious event three years in a row is a testament to both his hard work and the strong community spirit behind the exhibit. The District Exhibits Competition is an important celebration of regional industries and communities, and Francis has once again represented Barwon with distinction.

“His success highlights the talent, resilience, and excellence that exist across our rural communities.”
Mason was celebrated for his outstanding contribution to the Narrabri RSL Memorial & Citizens Club board during the past two decades.

Mason is also well-known in the community for his service through the Narrabri RSL Sub-branch, particularly his tenure as sub-branch president.

“For 20 years, Gary has dedicated his time, energy and passion to
serving his community, including in the roles of vice-president and director,” Butler said of Mason’s service.

“His unwavering commitment and countless hours of service have played a vital role in shaping not only the success of the club, but also the strong sense of community it fosters today.”

MD Saleh Uddin has been acknowledged in NSW Parliament for his research into child and adolescent mental health and his academic achievements as a PhD student. Photo: Supplied.

Butler said Mason’s leadership, integrity and dedication have left a lasting legacy that will continue to benefit members and the wider Narrabri community for many years to come. While extending thanks to community members, Butler also praised Uddin, a student supported by the CUC North West’s Narrabri centre, for his dedication to advancing child and adolescent mental health research.

Currently undertaking a Doctor of Philosophy at Griffith University, Uddin is an overseas-trained psychiatrist with a strong commitment to improving mental health outcomes for young people.

“His research article, Effectiveness of school-based interventions to improve mental health and wellbeing of students: an umbrella review, has recently been published in an academic journal – a significant achievement reflecting the quality and importance of his work. Through his PhD journey, MD Saleh has demonstrated exceptional leadership, research and professional skills, contributing meaningfully to the understanding of student wellbeing,” Butler said. “His success also highlights the important role CUC North West plays in supporting regional students to access higher education opportunities close to home.”