Nyngan's John King was recently named ‘Dubbo‘s Favourite Tradie’ at the Rhino Awards for 2023 and admits he was very surprised and honoured. 

With an estimated 7000 tradies operating out of Dubbo, to win the award was no mean feat. 

“To be nominated in recognition of your work means that someone somewhere thinks you did a great job,” says John. “ On top of that to receive an award while working in an industry that I love and have spent almost a decade in is a privilege.”  

John grew up in Nyngan and upon completing school at Nyngan High took on an electrical apprenticeship at Tritton Mine. Following a move to Dubbo he joined Williams Oriel Services and completed an apprenticeship as a refrigeration mechanic and after eight years working for the business, he decided on a move to Chill-Rite last year.  

But while John may have been surprised, those around him were not, and after the online votes were counted John found himself in the final four and headed to the black-tie gala Dubbo Business Chamber event which saw him leave with the top Award much to the delight of his family and employers. 

“Winning Dubbo’s Favourite Tradie is fantastic recognition for the hard work and dedication John puts in every day and we couldn’t be prouder,” said Mitch Rogers, Service Manager Chill-Rite Dubbo.   

“John is not only a great technician but also a team player, first to offer to support and train our apprentices,” said Mr. Rogers. 

Photo supplied Chill-Rite Dubbo 

Johns partner Maddy O’Brien was on hand to witness John receive his award and couldn’t be prouder. “I am extremely proud of John for being acknowledged and recognised in his industry,” said Ms. O’Brien. “He is very passionate about his work and takes pride in everything that he does,” she said.  

It wasn’t only Dubbo who celebrated John’s win as his mother Eloise and stepfather Wayne from Nyngan also attended on the night and witnessed John accept the Award on stage. 

“John has worked hard since he was able to be employed at a young age,” says mum Eloise. “John would always pull things apart to see how they worked, although not much went back together after had seen what he wanted,” she laughed. 

“For John to be nominated for the award was an accomplishment in itself, but to win the award was amazing and as a parent we always love to see the great recognition of our kids hard work and to be recognised by someone in the large Dubbo area was unbelievable.

“There are no words that can explain the joy and happiness to see John receive this award.” 

Meanwhile the normally camera shy John will have bragging rights for the next twelve months as he celebrates his well earned title.  

Photo supplied john King