Gunnedah has scooped not one but two awards at the statewide PCYC NSW Annual Awards.

Local teenager Harry Ryman was named Young Person of the Year – Male, while club manager Jess Blair was awarded Employee of the Year honours.

Harry is a full-time student at boarding school in Sydney but regularly returns to Gunnedah during school holiday breaks where he has worked as a PCYC activities officer since 2023.

The 16-year-old’s award recognised his leadership, commitment to PCYC values, and outstanding involvement in youth and community activities.

Proud parents Tania and Peter were thrilled by news he had won the award from all PCYC venues across NSW.

Mum said Harry attended the awards ceremony in the belief he was accepting on behalf of Gunnedah PCYC and was excited to learn the honour was an individual effort.

“It was a big surprise for him,” Tania said.

As well as helping lead the PCYC school holiday programs in Gunnedah, Harry also participates in visits to Wee Waa for outreach visits with the organisation.

He also coached this year’s PCYC rugby league team which competed at the Nations of Origin sports tournament.

Harry’s young age helps his association with youth at PCYC but mum said he also has a natural affinity with his peers as well.

“He can really relate to some of the younger kids,” Tania said.

“They gravitate towards him.”

It’s not just at work where Harry excels and is a popular mentor to his classmates at school and on the playing field.

Harry was recently selected as the ‘boarding captain’ – a coveted position made up of only six students.

The man of the moment was humbled to receive such an accolade.

“I feel very privileged to have this opportunity,” he said.

Gunnedah’s Harry Ryman was named Young Person of the Year – Male.

 

Showing maturity beyond his years, Harry clearly valued his position of leadership among the children, explaining how it was important to set a good example for others to follow.

He said the best part is the opportunity to influence a young person’s life on every work shift.

“You see some kids might be having a bad day but they leave with a smile,” he said.

Gunnedah PCYC’s Jess Blair was also chuffed by her award on the state stage.

The club manager’s Employee of the Year award recognised her exceptional service, club leadership, and work in building strong connections within the community.

“I’m a bit overwhelmed to be honest,” Jess said of her award.

It is a busy schedule for Jess who has managed Gunnedah PCYC for the last three years.

In addition to local role, she also performs the role as sector manager for nine PCYC clubs across the state – from Bourke to Coffs Harbour. But she wouldn’t trade it for quids.

“It’s a unique position, get to go around to all the different clubs, work with kids and see the good work,” Jess said.

“I love our organisation and its mission.”

Jess also acknowledged the invaluable role all staff have had in the award.

“We’ve build a solid team here in Gunnedah,” she said.

“My (award) win, is their win.”

Club manager Jess Blair was awarded Employee of the Year.