Praise for John Smith and Spring Plains Ball in parliament

Member for Barwon Roy Butler has congratulated Narrabri’s John Smith for decades of service to local sport and the Spring Plains community for raising $120,000 for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, recognising both achievements in NSW parliament.

Mr Butler acknowledged Mr Smith’s outstanding contribution to the Narrabri community following his recent decision to step down as president of the RSL Sporting Body after more than 20 years in the role.

“I would like to recognise John Smith of Narrabri for his outstanding decades of service to the RSL Sporting Body and the wider Narrabri community,” he said.

“John recently stepped down as president after more than 20 years in the role, following in the footsteps of the late Barry Stanford, who held the position for 21 years.

“John has dedicated much of his life to promoting community sport and providing opportunities for local athletes, beginning with representing the group in tennis before becoming president.

“His contribution has included supporting sporting clubs and individuals, organising presentation nights, raffles, the Anzac Day breakfast and many other community activities.

“John was awarded life membership in 2025 in recognition of his extensive service.

“I congratulate John on his remarkable contribution and thank him for his leadership, generosity and commitment to the Narrabri community.”

Mr Smith’s retirement from the presidency followed a long period of service supporting local sporting clubs, athletes and community events. His contribution was recognised in The Courier in September.

Spring Plains Fundraising Committee members Josh Schwager, Graham Cameron, Ben Watson, Matt Schwager, Mike Boyle, James Hall, Katie Watson, Georgia Boyle, Jono Phelps, Anna Hall, Angus Moore, Kate Schwager, Ali Smith, Ali Wilson, Chris Chaplain, Elosie Chaplain, Tom Wilson, Wendy Phelps, front, WRHS representative support group coordinator Kim Blanch and committee member Tom Cameron. Absent from photo: Maddie Schwager and Wendy Cameron.

Mr Butler also congratulated the Spring Plains community following its successful September fundraiser, which raised an impressive $120,000 for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service while celebrating the centenary of Spring Plains Hall.

“I acknowledge and congratulate the small but mighty community of Spring Plains for its outstanding fundraising efforts for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service,” he said.

“On 19 September, the Spring Plains community held a remarkable event which raised an impressive $120,000 for this vital service.

“This incredible result is a testament to the generosity of local sponsors, businesses, individuals and everyone who donated goods, services, time and raffle prizes.

“The event also celebrated the 100th birthday of Spring Plains Hall, a much-loved community meeting place.

“The hall was beautifully decorated for the occasion, with cowboy hats, boots, fairy lights and the locally formed band Black Tie Boots helping create a fantastic atmosphere.

“I congratulate the organising committee, particularly chair Angus Moore, and the entire Spring Plains community on this outstanding achievement and on 100 years of bringing people together.”

The event brought together residents, businesses and supporters for a major fundraising effort, with the proceeds supporting the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service and its vital work across regional communities.

The centenary celebration also highlighted the importance of Spring Plains Hall as a gathering place for the local community over the past 100 years.