Marine Rescue mourns “tireless volunteer”

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Celebrating Life Membership (from left): Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch, Member for Robertson Gordon Reid, Commissioner Alex Barrell, Sherwin Hensby, Yvonne Hensby and Deputy Commissioner Darren Schott

August 30, 2023

Marine Rescue Central Coast is mourning the loss of one its most valued members following the death on August 16 of Sherwin Hensby at the age of 82.

Friend Andrew McKellar said Sherwin, who was born on August 5, 1941, was known as the “tireless volunteer”.

“Sherwin has left a huge hole in the Green Machine, from his advice on anything and everything, to his dry sense of humour,” McKellar said.

“One thing he didn’t lack was empathy; his cup overflowed.

“I don’t think I have ever met anyone more willing to give and help than Sherwin.”

Sherwin Hensby had an amazing history as a volunteer.

He joined the NSW Ambulance Service in 1962 as a volunteer and continued to serve the community with the ambulance for almost 15 years until 1976.

He was also a Lifeline counsellor and a Zone Commander for Brisbane Water Marine Watch.

Sherwin joined the Rural Fire Service (RFS) in 1969 while still serving the NSW Ambulance Service.

He developed and provided valuable first aid and radio training to RFS members until 2003 – a service of 34 years.

Concurrently with his service to the RFS, Sherwin joined the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol (RVCP) in 2003.

He went on to train and assess members of RVCP (now Marine Rescue NSW) in First Aid and Advanced Resuscitation, often for other units besides Marine Rescue Central Coast.

“Sherwin has been a dedicated, highly respected member for 20 years,” McKellar said.

“Through his dedication as a volunteer, he has inspired and mentored many members, including myself.

“Earlier this year, Sherwin was awarded Life Membership of MRNSW Central Coast in recognition of all the dedicated work he has done for us.”

Sherwin’s funeral was attended by 40 family members and friends and up to 40 current and ex-Marine Rescue members.

His Marine rescue awards included: National Medal for 15 Years; 1st National Medal Clasp for 25 Years; 2nd National Medal Clasp for 35 Years; 3rd National Medal Clasp for 45 Years; MRNSW Service Medal for 10 Years; MRNSW Service Medal Clasp for 20 Years; and MRNSW Unit Life Membership.

CCN