Nearly 200 boat-related incidents have been attended to by Central Coast Marine Rescue in the past six months.
Unit Commander Ian Morrow said the incidents had included sinking vessels, engine difficulties and flat batteries, boats that have run aground and “bad fuel”, caused from fuel sitting dormant in the petrol tank for too long.
“We don’t get a lot of recognition but we’re here to help 24/7,” Morrow said.
He was recently named Volunteer Manager 2023 at the Central Coast National Volunteer Week Awards.
The youngest member of Marine Rescue Central Coast, Will Shaddock, says that Marine Rescue’s motto is “saving lives on the water”, and, apart from great camaraderie, “it’s wonderful to know we’re helping local boaties.”
The 18 year old was recently highly commended as the Young Volunteer of the Year at the same award ceremony.
Meanwhile, more than 150 years of combined volunteer service was recognised by Marine Rescue Central Coast at a recent awards evening.
Both Marine Rescue Commissioner Alex Barrell and Deputy Commissioner Darren Schott made the drive up the M1 to congratulate members who were recognised, especially long-time volunteer with numerous organisations, Sherwin Hensby.
Hensby, 81, was officially presented with his Life Achievement Award, recognising 35 years of volunteer service.
Hensby’s years of volunteering began with the Rural Fire Service, where he spent many years serving food to firefighters on scene through the RFS canteen, along with other duties.
Following a recent bout of cancer, he now helps out where he can.
Other recipients were recognised for service ranging from five years to 35 years.
Rescue NSW award members receive a badge at five years, a medal at 10 years and a clasp every 10 years after that and a National Medal after 15 years’ service, followed each 10 years with a clasp.
Marine Rescue Central Coast is currently looking for additional volunteers.
If you’ve ever thought about joining the team at Brisbane Water based Marine Rescue either as a radio operator, boat crew or associate, this is your opportunity to get involved.
Two information evenings will be held at the Point Clare base on Wednesday and Thursday nights, June 14 and 15, starting at 7pm and expected to last for two hours.
The Point Clare base is located at Goodaywang Reserve, at the northern end of Kurrawa Ave, on the eastern side of the railway line.
There is no need to register, just turn up and find out what the volunteer organisation provides in the way of training.
Applicants must be aged 16 or older.
More details can be found on the Marine Rescue Central Coast Facebook page.
For more information, contact Ian Morrow on 0435 477 852.
Source:
Marine Rescue Central Coast