It was presented to deputy unit commander Ray Mazurek in Sydney recently and is for the unit’s successful Water Expo held in Forster on January 15. 

Marine Rescue NSW Deputy Commissioner Dean Storey congratulated the members of Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry on their well-deserved recognition.

“The expo was a great way to educate the community, raise awareness of water and boating safety and demonstrate the rescue skill and professionalism of the unit’s volunteers and their colleagues in the emergency services and maritime agencies,” he said.

“The event’s search and rescue exercises, showcasing the coordination and precision required in joint emergency operations on the water and in the air attracted large crowds of locals and tourists alike.

“The Forster Tuncurry area is a popular summer holiday destination and the Water Expo was a great opportunity for local water safety agencies to provide key safety advice and information to the community, especially visitors unfamiliar with local waterways and conditions.”

The event included demonstrations by Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry crews, along with the NSW Police vessel Intrepid and the Westpac rescue helicopter. 

Other agencies taking part included Australian Customs and Border Protection Services, NSW Fisheries, Roads and Maritime Services and Surf Life Saving.

“The unit recently celebrated its 25th anniversary and this award shows it is continuing to serve the community and raise awareness of the need for safety on the water in effective and innovative ways,” Mr Storey said.

Forster Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) was also recognised on the night receiving commendation under the Community Initiative of the Year category for its Surf Awareness School.

The program, which has been driven by club member Laura Thurtell and women’s swimming group – The Warrior Women, came about after it was realised there weren’t any surf education programs available for visiting children not used to the ocean.  

The club’s youth members aged between 13 to 18 years old are also involved and assist participants throughout the program.  

During the three years that the program has been running, 360 children have been educated in surf safety, basic first aid, board paddling and swimming in the surf.