Sporting standouts acknowledged at Narrabri Shire’s Australia Day awards ceremony

Three worthy recipients were announced as the winners of the Narrabri Shire’s 2026 Australia Day sporting awards at The Crossing Theatre on Monday.

Rugby union was front and centre as Toni Rae was named senior sportsperson of the year and Gabe O’Connor was named junior sportsperson of the year (male), while champion equestrian Lillian Todd was named junior sportsperson of the year (female).

For Rae, it was a well-deserved honour years in the making after being the backbone of the Narrabri Blue Boars’ championship-winning women’s team for many years.

She helped guide the side to a maiden grand final in 2022, which they lost against Tamworth Pirates in Gunnedah, before they stormed their way to three straight minor/major premierships in seasons 2023, 2024 and 2025.

Rae was the player of the final in 2023 and 2025, but missed out on the 2024 campaign due to an injury suffered at an off-season tournament after the side’s maiden premiership victory.

Still, she played a part in the 2024 success in a support role while she worked tirelessly in the background to get herself ready for season 2025.

As well as the player of the final honours, Rae has received many individual awards across the past few seasons, including being the Central North Rugby Union’s top point-scorer on three occasions and also receiving several club awards, including the 2025 Brad Hannaford memorial shield for the club’s best and fairest player.

She has proven herself to be a danger in any sport that uses a football, including touch footy.

Just last season she helped guide Specialised Civil Services to Narrabri Touch’s A-grade ladies’ final, and she was the association’s top try-scorer for the 2025 campaign.

Gabe and Lillian also enjoyed successful 2025 campaigns in their respective sports and were both well-deserved recipients of their respective awards.

Below is what the Narrabri Shire told those in attendance after announcing the three award winners on Monday.

Senior sportsperson of the year – Toni Rae:

Toni is a standout athlete and leader who consistently overperforms both on and off the field. A dedicated and hard-working team player, Toni has excelled year after year, achieving the highest point-scoring honour for Central North Rugby Union across the men’s and women’s competitions multiple times, including in 2025. Her leadership in the football space is widely respected, and her commitment to excellence sets the standard for those around her. Beyond her on-field achievements, Toni has inspired many young women — and women returning to sport later in life — to get involved, stay engaged and believe in their own abilities. She is a powerful role model whose impact reaches far beyond the scoreboard.

Junior sportsperson of the year (male) – Gabe O’Connor:

Gabe O’Connor has distinguished himself as a talented and versatile young athlete, excelling in a wide range of sports while demonstrating strong leadership and commitment. At just 16 years of age, Gabe was selected in the Combined High Schools of NSW Under-16 rugby union team for 2025, a significant achievement that reflects his dedication to his sport. He has also served as a sports captain at Narrabri High School, where he is known for his encouragement, leadership and positive influence. Gabe has represented both his school and the wider Narrabri community in numerous sports, showcasing the depth of opportunity and talent within the region.

Junior sportsperson of the year (female) – Lillian Todd:

Lillian is an outstanding young equestrian who has excelled through her dedication, discipline and passion for barrel racing. At just 16 years of age, Lillian was selected to represent Australia at the 2025 National High School Finals Rodeo in Rock Springs, Wyoming, competing on the world stage. She was the High School Rodeo Barrel Racing Champion in 2025, a member of the Australian High School Rodeo Team, and also a strong supporter of local Pony Club and barrel racing events across Australia. Lillian’s achievements highlight the strength of community support behind her and serve as an inspiring example of how commitment and hard work can lead to success at the highest level.