A legacy of leadership: Phil Duncan named Oz Water Professional of the Year

Natural Resources Access Regulator board member Phil Duncan has been named the Australian Water Professional of the year at the Oz Water 2024 gala night in Melbourne.

In accepting the award, the Gamilaroi man became emotional when speaking of his profound connection to water, which he first developed as a boy growing up along the banks of the Gwydir River in the NSW town of Moree.

“This incredible honour reflects my ancestors, community, family and nation.” Mr Duncan said during his acceptance speech.

“It’s my only hope that whatever I can contribute to the water sector will also energise our bright Indigenous youth to build upon the foundations being laid.”

“They now know there are people out there like you that want to help people like me”.

Phil has over 40 years’ experience in water management while simultaneously working with communities and the government to improve the lives of Aboriginal people through his employment and active volunteer community work.

He’s dedicated to promoting greater partnerships and collaboration using two-way knowledge exchanges and enhancing the voices of Traditional Owners in water management.

Winning this prestigious award, at the biggest water conference and exhibition in the Southern Hemisphere, adds to a growing list of highlights for NRAR’s first Indigenous board member. He was a keynote speaker at the 2023 UN World Water Summit in New York and was re-appointed to another term on NRAR’s Board.

NRAR Chief Regulatory Officer Grant Barnes flew to Melbourne to witness his colleague's victory and says it’s a moment of enormous pride for everyone connected with the NSW water regulator.

“Uncle Phil provides a wealth of experience in high-level policy, strategic advice, and valued leadership to not only NRAR but also to our partner organisations, universities, and other state and federal government agencies,” Mr Barnes said.

“He is an inspiring example of how passion and purpose can bring significant environmental and community benefits,” he said.

“One of NRAR’s enduring priorities is to protect and prioritise Aboriginal cultural and spiritual values in water regulation, and Phil’s leadership is at the core of this work.”