Ali Curung’s Creed Nelson received a watch from Barkly Shire Council CDEP Manager, Louis Katsikitis, in thanks for his contribution to the community.

Member for Barkly, Gerry McCarthy, also travelled out to Ali Curung for the barbeque lunch recently.

He said Creed was typical of a generation who worked hard to pioneer the industry we have in the Barkly today.

“Creed is a wonderful role model and a great mentor for younger people who have many opportunities if they follow his example,” he said.

Creed, who now works for the Barkly Shire Council as a mentor for younger workers, was born on Kurundi Station in 1963 and moved to Warrabri with his family as a young boy - a long time before the community was renamed Ali Curung.

His first paid job was with old Mick Tsavaris from the Warrabri Bakery who taught him carpentry skills so he could help make coffins.

Afterwards, Creed worked as a plumber’s assistant before scoring a job with the local council as a plant operator.

He remembers Barry Pengelly teaching him how operate heavy machinery, then encouraging him to go to Darwin to complete a grader training course, a move which led him into a grading career for the next 25 years.

Creed says his job now is to inspire the young ones, so they learn to appreciate the opportunity to work.

“I tell them, stand up and work,” he said.

“One thing I remember my old mother telling me over and over again was to work for a living.

“She said: ‘Creed, when you grow up, get a job, find a wife, have a family and work hard for your kids. And even when I’m gone, remember my words.’

“Well, I did remember her words and now I tell my children those same words.

“Which is why I’m glad I have many family members here today to see that I am being rewarded for my hard work.”