Preston Campbell
Preston Campbell was born in Inverell in 1977 and grew up in the predominately Aboriginal community of Tingha with a population of barely 500 people.
Small in stature, he was told he would never make the grade in professional rugby league but with courage as his trademark and skill as his weapon he played 14 years at the NRL level in one of the most physically demanding sports in the world.
He achieved a number of honours including winning the prestigious Dally M Player of the Year Award in 2001, being a member of Penrith’s Premiership team in 2003, representing NSW Country and being selected for the Prime Ministers XII in his final season this year.
He also captained the Indigenous Dreamtime Team in the 2008 World Cup and was captain of the Inaugural Indigenous All Stars team in 2010.
Preston is acknowledged as the inspiration behind the All Stars game which is more than a sporting event as it has inspired a number of programs for Indigenous youth aimed at closing the gap of disadvantage between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.
Affectionately known as ‘The People’s Champion’ he is a passionate ambassador for his people and has been recognised by numerous awards for utilising his profile to impact on the lives of hundreds of kids – both Indigenous and non-Indigenous.
Preston lives by the simple belief that by helping one child achieve his or her dream we come one step closer to achieving our dream for all children.
He continues this work with Titans 4 Tomorrow as a qualified Youth Worker and as Learn Earn Legend! Ambassador for the Federal Government.