STAFF at Moree Public School have been recognised at two major events in recent weeks, winning three awards for services to the New South Wales education system.

Principal Sharyn Cox received the NSW Primary Principals’ Association award at a special ceremony at the Sofitel Wentworth in Sydney in late October.

Two days later, deputy principal Lindy Hosegood was named winner of the JA Sutherland Award for significant contribution to education at the 2025 New England Education Co-Operative Awards night at Armidale.

Also at Armidale, Moree Public School Learning and Support Team was named winner the HTB Harris Award for significant contributions to education.

Mrs Cox was recognised for her exceptional work with colleagues across rural and remote areas, and her deep understanding of the public education system.

“It’s a great privilege and honour to be nominated by my peers as a primary school principal for an award like this,” Mrs Cox smiled.

“It’s great to highlight our school for the great work it does, and the great things our staff do.”

Mrs Cox, now in her sixth year at Moree Public School after transferring from Goulburn, praised all staff at Moree Public School.

“While all extremely humble, we are very aware of the influence and confidence these awards communicate to Moree Public School and the wider Moree community.”

(from left) MPS P&C Association president Casey O’Hara, deputy principal Lindy Hosegood, principal Sharyn Cox and MPS Learning and Support Team’s Di Ireland.

The New England Education Co-Operative awards, held at Armidale Golf Club, recognised outstanding educators and programs across various categories and sectors.

Lindy Hosegood was acknowledged for her exceptional leadership – leadership that goes above and beyond expectations.

She was recognised for her profound influence that is woven into every facet of Moree Public School culture, and her operational excellence balanced with genuine care for every student and staff member.

Mrs Hosegood taught at several schools before transferring to Moree, including Deepwater Public School, Emmaville Central School, Sir Henry Parkes Memorial School at Tenterfield, Rowena Public School and Pallamallawa Public School.

She came to Moree Public School in the late 1980s – a shift she says has been the most rewarding decision made during a career spanning more than 40 years.

“It has been my good fortune to have worked, and still be working with, some of the most amazing and innovative educational leaders, class teachers and support staff over my 45-plus years with the NSW Department of Education,” Mrs Hosegood said.

“However, I feel the greatest sense of gratitude is to be now teaching second and third generation Moree and district children and mentoring and welcoming several school alumni to the teaching profession.

“In addition, enjoying the daily interactions and conversations with students and staff, and being part of an inspiring leadership team, gives me great pleasure.

“In all professions, it is essential we continue to learn and grow and maintain currency while acknowledging the hard work and wisdom of those who have paved the way and created a school that continues to pursue excellence, equity and community,” Mrs Hosegood said.

Moree Public School Learning and Support Team, led by assistant principal Di Ireland, was recognised for its outstanding and sustained contribution to inclusive education.

The team’s work provides tailored support for students with disabilities, chronic health conditions, learning challenges and high potential.

The team offers additional learning needs and supports teachers, co-ordinates support plans, and work with parents and other professionals to improve learning outcomes.

“Our support team focuses on the whole child, and we work across physical, social, wellbeing and academic aspects – we support the child where their needs are,” Mrs Ireland said.

“This award acknowledges the work we do for our children in our community. Our staff are wonderful, and it’s about working with families and each student.

“We don’t do this to get awards, we do it for the kids,” she said.

“Every member of school staff is part of our Learning Support Team at one stage or another, so this award is for all staff members at Moree Public School, not just the team.

“There is no core group because, depending on the needs of each child, depends on who’s in that child’s team – there might be half-a-dozen staff at any one time to support a child based around their needs.

“That could be planning, providing immediate support and follow-up support, and meeting with parents and agencies,” Mrs Ireland said.

Moree Public School P&C Association president Casey O’Hara applauded all staff recognised at the annual award ceremonies.

“This is due recognition for everyone – Sharyn, Lindy and the Learning and Support Team are incredible people,” Mrs O’Hara said.

“Sharyn is an instrumental part of the Moree Public School teaching community, and is always there to support and guide our school P&C committee.

“It’s wonderful to see she has been recognised for all her hard work.

“Lindy has always been a huge supporter of our P&C – every working bee, every event, Lindy is there helping.

“The entire school community is so happy she has been recognised for her years of service. It’s very well-deserved – she is definitely a one-of-a-kind at Moree Public School,” she said.

“The Learning and Support Team is an important service to all students at Moree Public School. They provide unbelievable support for all our kids and are an instrumental part of the school community.

“It’s fantastic to see them recognised for all their hard work and dedication to our students,” Mrs O’Hara said.