Russel Driver Named Young WHS Leader of the Year at the 2026 Hunter Safety Awards

At the 2026 Hunter Safety Awards, Russel Driver was recognised as the Young WHS Leader of the Year, celebrating a leader whose proactive, practical, and people-focused approach is helping shape the future of workplace health and safety.

As National QSE Manager, Russel is leading safety across multiple regions, including the Hunter, with a strong focus on proactive risk management, culture, and measurable safety outcomes.

His recognition reflects not only what he has achieved so far — but the leadership standard he is setting for the future.

Leading from the Front

Russel’s nomination showcased:

• Proactive safety leadership

• Silica dust controls introduced ahead of legislation

• Zero lost-time injuries on high-risk projects

• Strong culture, team engagement, and measurable outcomes

What set Russel apart was his ability to combine strategic foresight with practical action.

From introducing silica dust controls before legislative requirements demanded them, to delivering zero lost-time injuries across high-risk projects, Russel’s leadership is not reactive — it is proactive, intentional, and deeply embedded in how work is done.

Practical Leadership with Real Impact

The judges recognised Russel for more than systems and results.

His hands-on approach and ability to bring teams with him were key differentiators.

Effective safety leadership is not simply about policies or authority — it’s about creating buy-in, building culture, and ensuring safety becomes something people actively participate in.

Russel’s leadership demonstrates exactly that.

By combining strong engagement with practical implementation, he has created real, measurable outcomes while helping teams understand and embrace safer ways of working.

Shaping the Future of Safety Leadership

Russel’s recognition as Young WHS Leader of the Year reflects a broader truth about modern workplace safety — the next generation of leaders must not only understand compliance, but also influence culture, anticipate risks, and lead change.

Russel is doing exactly that.

His work is helping shape safer workplaces today while influencing what strong WHS leadership will look like tomorrow.

Proudly Sponsored by Red Insight

The Young WHS Leader of the Year Award was proudly sponsored by Red Insight, whose support reflects their commitment to recognising and elevating emerging leaders shaping the future of workplace safety.

Congratulations Russel Driver

Russel is setting the standard for what effective safety leadership looks like in practice.

Through proactive thinking, measurable results, and a people-first leadership style, he is proving that strong safety leadership is built through action, culture, and consistency.

Congratulations on this exceptional and well-deserved recognition.