GLENREAGH local, Billy York, has received State honours in recognition of his resilience, personal growth, and determination to return to study and succeed.
Mr York was celebrated at the 2026 Gili Awards, which were held during Reconciliation Week at TAFE NSW in Ultimo, Sydney.
The awards recognised 14 outstanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, staff and programs.
Mr York, a TAFE NSW Coffs Harbour Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology graduate, was named Agriculture, Transport and Manufacturing Student of the Year.
He graduated with a Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology. His award acknowledged not only his educational achievement but also his resilience, personal growth, and determination to return to study and succeed.
He also stood out for mentoring others and making a positive impact in both his workplace and community.
“I first started at TAFE when I was 19, but honestly, I wasn’t the best student back then,” Mr York said.
“I left, moved away, and spent years trying to improve myself.
“When I returned home, an opportunity came up for a heavy vehicle apprenticeship at 31, and I grabbed it. I chose this course because I love fixing things and enjoy a challenge.
“Winning this award means a lot because it reflects how far I’ve come, both as a student and as a person. I’m proud to be recognised for doing something I genuinely love and for proving to myself that I could succeed.
“I hope my story encourages others to back themselves and keep going, even if the path hasn’t been straightforward,” he said.
The annual awards celebrate individuals and initiatives that are creating opportunities through education, strengthening communities, and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student success across the state.
TAFE NSW Managing Director Chloe Read said the Gili Awards reflected the powerful role quality education and skills training played in opening career pathways and strengthening communities.
“At TAFE NSW, we’re committed to creating culturally safe and inclusive learning environments where students like Billy feel supported and empowered to reach their full potential,” Ms Read said.
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