Moss Vale’s Elliott Esquilant picked up three votes in the final match of the year to finish on 21 points, but Camden’s Chris Browne polled 22 to take the coveted prize.

Esquilant’s fellow front rower Willie McDonald also finished in the top five with 15 points.

Camden’s Browne also won the award for highest pointscorer with 222 points, while Narellan’s Ben Baker scored the most tries (31).

Picton’s Gary Dowse won coach of the year which capped a successful night for the Magpies who also picked up the first grade minor premiers and club champions trophies.

Thirlmere’s Gary Dowling won the rising star award.

Former Wests Magpies great and Australian representative Noel Kelly [pictured] was the guest speaker on the night.

Kelly kept the crowd captivated with his views on the modern game, including referees and scrums, and some stories from his three Kangaroo tours to Britain.

Mittagong’s Zac Blackshaw was the Highlands’ only winner on the night picking up the under-18A pl