Community & Business
17 August, 2026
Coonamble Times, editor Lee O'Connor, recognised as a Business NSW Community Champion
A passionate advocate for regional communities, Lee O'Connor has dedicated her career to strengthening the western district through economic development, championing businesses, advocacy, connecting communities and community service.
From keeping local journalism alive in Western NSW to transforming a historic flour mill into a tourism destination, 10 business and community leaders have been recognised for their contribution to regional NSW.
Presented as part of Business NSW's 200th anniversary, the Service to the Region Awards celebrate individuals making a lasting difference across the state.
Among this year's recipients is Coonamble's Lee O'Connor, recognised as the Western NSW recipient of the 2026 Service to the Region Award for her outstanding contribution to business, economic development, community leadership and regional advocacy over more than three decades.
Beyond her professional achievements, Lee O'Connor has played a significant volunteer leadership role within her community. She has served for more than a decade with the Coonamble Chamber of Commerce, helped establish Coonamble Community Radio, helped found the Drought Busters Alliance, supported local business campaigns and fundraising initiatives, and continues to contribute to community wellbeing through organisations such as the Safer Coonamble Group.
“Lee is one of those people who consistently puts her community first. Whether it's supporting local businesses, advocating for the regions or helping communities through difficult times, she has made an extraordinary contribution to Western NSW," said Business NSW’s regional director – Western NSW, Vicki Seccombe.
"What stands out most is her ability to bring people together and turn ideas into action and Lee embodies the spirit of this award.”
“We are proud to recognise her as Western NSW's 2026 Service to the Region Award recipient." said Ms Seccombe.
Business NSW President Joseph Carrozzi AM said the recipients embodied the values that have long defined regional communities across NSW.
"Across NSW, there are people who quietly get on with the job of making their communities stronger," Mr Carrozzi said.
"They create opportunities, support local businesses and bring people together.”
Business NSW CEO Daniel Hunter said: "As Business NSW marks 200 years, it is fitting to recognise people whose leadership, enterprise and community spirit have made a lasting contribution to the places they call home.”
The 2026 Service to the Region Award recipients are:
• Ian Pedersen (Hunter)
• Bree Katsamangos (Mid North Coast)
• Frank Sammut (Central Coast)
• Lee O'Connor (Western NSW)
• Neil Druce (Riverina Murray)
• Pamela Brook (Northern Rivers)
• Terry Wetherall AM (Illawarra Shoalhaven)
• Richard Fox (Western Sydney)
• Steven Pearce AFSM GAICD (Sydney)
• Tim Coates (New England North West).
