STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Mr REPACHOLI (Hunter) (16:04): The Hunter is full of good, great people who quietly make a difference every single day. One of those blokes is Joey Butler from Branxton. I'm proud to recognise Joey after he was named the 2026 National Great Mate Award winner.

The award celebrates men who show up for others, lead by example and help young people become the best version of themselves. You'd be hard pressed to find anyone more deserving. As director of Singleton High School's Clontarf Academy, Joey's there—day in, day out—for more than 130 Aboriginal boys.

Whether it's early morning training before school, encouraging them in the classroom, creating opportunities through sport and culture or simply being someone they can rely on, Joey's making a real difference. He shows these young fellas what respect, resilience and responsibility look like by living it every single day. Joey also stepped well out of his comfort zone and joined me as part of Cancer Council NSW's Hunter STARS Dance for Cancer, helping raise more than $240,000 to support people and families affected by cancer.

That's everything you need to know about the sort of bloke Joey is. He gives back to his community, he lifts others up, and he never asks for anything in return. Joey Butler is a terrific role model not just for Branxton but for the whole of the Hunter community.

Congratulations, mate. I'm looking forward to having a beer with you at the Miller Park Hotel and a roll, too. Cheers!