Covering approximately a third of New South Wales, a new figure has emerged, offering a beacon of support to those living and working on the land.

Meet Noel Williams, the recently appointed Frontier Services Bush Chaplain, whose life experiences have uniquely prepared him for this vital role.

I recently met Noel at the ICPA NSW conference in Euston.

The dynamic organisers of the conference invited Noel form Frontier Services, as part of the many different services present at the event, so people could engage and become aware of what is out there.

Noel's journey to becoming a Bush Chaplain is a tapestry woven with diverse threads.

For 40 years, he served as a chaplain in the Air Force.

Prior to that, he gained practical skills as a radio technician, starting his career with the RAAF in 1969.

Adding another layer to his understanding of rural life, Noel also has a farming background and currently runs a commercial sheep property with his wife Kayleen.

This intimate knowledge of the challenges faced by primary producers, including floods, bushfires, and competitive markets, makes him a chaplain who truly understands the struggles of the land.

Retirement, for most, signals a time to slow down, but for Noel, who celebrated his 70th birthday just a day after his compulsory retirement from the armed forces, it marked the beginning of a new chapter.

“My identity is tied up with what I do and I still felt I had a lot to give,” Noel said earnestly.

The Frontier Services' motto, ‘Standing with people in the bush,’ resonated deeply with his lifelong commitment to supporting others.

The role of a Bush Chaplain for Noel is not just a job; it's an extension of who he is and what he does.

His territory spans a significant area, stretching from Narrabri to Cobar and surrounding regions.

In his first few months since his appointment in July, he has already driven over 12,500 kilometres, dedicating his time to getting to know his new ‘flock’.

This involves connecting with communities across western NSW, talking to counsellors, Government agencies, and rural advisers – anyone who can guide him to where his skills are most needed.

Noel's approach to connecting with people is built on absolute care and support, with no hidden agenda. He had heard that people in the bush might be reluctant to open up, but his experience has been quite the opposite.

He finds that both men and women are willing to talk when they sense genuine care and no ulterior motives.

Interestingly, Noel has found unique, practical ways to connect with and support the people in his care.

His vehicle carries a welding helmet and an auto-electrical toolbox, symbolising his willingness to chip in and help wherever and whenever people are in need.

He sees these tools as symbolic of his role, representing not just physical help but also the inner strength – emotional, mental, and spiritual – that he aims to build in people.

Having grown up in rural NSW, Noel is attuned to the issues facing these communities.

In his initial months, he has observed trends common in asset rich-cash poor rural areas, such as a lack of succession planning, children leaving communities, dysfunction within family units, a level of domestic abuse, and the constant challenges of climate.

He has also connected with an Aboriginal Elder, learning about the similar struggles faced by Aboriginal People, including the loss of children to electronic devices and the drift away from their cultural homeland.

Loneliness and isolation are other significant issues Noel has identified. He recognises the profound impact of this emptiness within on self-worth and self respect.

For Noel, a core part of his role is bringing new perspectives to people in terms of life and well-being.

He understands that when people are dealing with hardship, sometimes all hope just goes out the door.

His mission is to help them find that inner strength again, whether through a practical act of welding, a listening ear, or a conversation that offers a fresh outlook.

Noel's own spiritual journey began after the premature death of his father, prompting him to question life's bigger questions.

His extensive experience as a defence force chaplain, guiding personnel through incredibly challenging events such as the Bali bombings and the Banda Aceh tsunami, has equipped him with a deep understanding of human resilience and the importance of support in times of crisis.

Noel Williams, with his rich and varied background, embodies the essence of Frontier Services – standing alongside people in the bush, offering practical help, emotional support, and a connection that reminds them they are not alone.

His commitment to his new role demonstrates that even after decades of service, there are still ways to give back and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Frontier Services and Noel are here to help everyone in Balranald and the region. You can contact by phoning 1300 787 247or emailing [email protected]