Noel has been a leading figure in the construction, resources and infrastructure industries for over 30 years and has been recognised by the Queensland Resources Council for his work in Indigenous advocacy over those decades. Noel, of the Gugu Badhun people, said he shared the award for his 30 years of work advocating employment for Indigenous people, with the many Indigenous and non-Indigenous team members he has worked with over the years.

Noel is passionate about Indigenous employment because he believes it is important in securing role models for present and future generations in the community. He is also working hard to ensure that there are more women employed in the construction and resource sectors.

Noel’s previous roles have included Regional Manager for the Commonwealth Department of Education, Senior Community and Indigenous Liaison officer for Kagara Mines, the Senior Advisor Strategy and Engagement for Myuma Pty Ltd and North Queensland Manager Indigenous Engagement with Construction Skills Queensland.

Noel can often be found working with remote and rural communities and local authorities, as well as assisting Indigenous stakeholders to prepare economic engagement strategies with infrastructure and resource projects.