SAPPHIRE COMMUNITY OF SCHOOLS AWARDS
Celebrating Excellence in Public Education
On Wednesday, August 5, the Sapphire Community of Schools Public Education Week Awards were held, recognising the outstanding contributions of students, staff and community members across our region. We are incredibly proud to celebrate our 2026 award recipients.
Outstanding Student Achievement Award:
Richard Sines
Recognised for his outstanding leadership, mentoring, and dedicated service to Inverell High School and the Inclusive Education Centre. Throughout his schooling, Richard has maintained an exceptional attendance rate of over 96% from Year 7 to Year 12, demonstrating his commitment to learning and active participation in school life. Through his voluntary support of junior classes during his study lessons and been an active member of the Junior Aboriginal Educational Consultant Group, Richard has significantly enhanced student engagement and fostered a positive school culture grounded in respect. His leadership extends to coordinating sports sessions with Clontarf staff and representing both Inverell High School and the Clontarf Foundation at key community events, including the Employment Forum in Tamworth, Clontarf Business Partners Camps, cultural events and Clontarf Awards evenings. Richard’s commitment exemplifies the spirit of student leadership and community involvement celebrated during Education Week.
Outstanding contribution to the school by a staff member:
Mindy Cox
Melinda (Mindy) Cox has been a dedicated generalist teacher at Inverell High School since 2007, demonstrating exceptional versatility by teaching English, History, Mathematics, and Technology Applied Studies including Textiles and Food Technology. Over the past three and half years, Mindy has made a significant impact as a key Learning and Support Teacher within our Learning Centre, positively influencing student learning and providing vital support to both students and staff. Her recent leadership as lead Learning and Support Teacher has been invaluable, mentoring new staff with passion and commitment. Mindy truly embodies the spirit of service above self for the betterment of the students, and her outstanding contribution greatly enriches our school community.
Outstanding contribution to a school by a member of the community / school community:
Sharon Youman
This award was presented to Sharon Youman in recognition of her outstanding contribution to Inverell High School. Sharon has been an active and dedicated member of the Parents and Citizens Association (P&C) for over seven years, serving with distinction as President for the past five years.
Throughout a significant transition period for the Inverell High P&C, Sharon’s leadership has been invaluable. She has worked tirelessly to build a stronger, more productive P&C by promoting the school within the community, providing essential assistance on numerous Merit Selection Panels, and offering unwavering support to the staff who nurture and educate our students.
Sharon's commitment and dedication have had a profound and positive impact on our school community, making her a worthy and deserving recipient of this award.
These awards recognise individuals who make a positive and lasting impact on our school community through their dedication, leadership and commitment to public education.
Congratulations, Richard, Mindy and Sharon, on this well-deserved recognition. Thank you for the contributions you make to our school each and every day. We are proud to have you representing our school and the values of public education.