Two Central Coast volunteers are among the four finalists for the Marine Rescue NSW Officer of the Year Award in this year’s Rotary Districts of NSW Emergency Services Awards (RESCA).
They are Marine Rescue Norah Head Unit Commander Julie Rostron and surf lifesaver Dean Tetley.
The RESCAs recognise outstanding service by NSW emergency services personnel, celebrating both paid and volunteer members of all NSW emergency services agencies who have gone above and beyond their normal duties, exemplifying the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self”.
Julie Rostron leads a team of 40 volunteers and has risen through the ranks since joining in 2016.
As Unit Commander and a qualified radio officer, her calm leadership, mentorship, and advocacy for female participation exemplify service and resilience.
Dean Tetley has been a dedicated volunteer with Surf Life Saving for over a decade, contributing significantly to UAV (drone) operations and beach safety.
As UAV Coordinator for both the Central Coast Branch and Umina SLSC, he has pioneered training programs, developed operational flight plans, and mentored a new generation of UAV pilots.
Two Coasties have also been named finalists in the Dorothy Hennessy OAM Emergency Services Youth Scholarship.
Nineteen-year-old Terrigal volunteer Rachael de Courcy has been recognised for her leadership and commitment since joining the Terrigal unit in 2022.
She has quickly become a key member of her unit—balancing university with callouts, emergency training, and community outreach.
Her maturity, leadership, and calmness under pressure have made her a role model for new recruits.
Harold Kay is the Lifesaving Competition Captain at Terrigal SLSC, where he has volunteered for over five years.
At just 16 years of age, Harold’s dedication is unmatched—he patrols regularly, supports Inclusive Nippers, and coaches multiple lifesaving competition events, instilling lifesaving skills and values in younger members.
Winners will be announced at the RESCA Presentation Dinner at Bankstown Sports Club on Saturday, August 2.
