Awarded a Meritorius Emergency Services Medal, Mr Lynch joins an esteemed rank of citizens recognised for their outstanding service to a particular organisation.

Volunteering is nothing new for the former navy serviceman, who has been contributing to community organisations for more than 40 years.

His focus on what is now called NSW Marine Rescue began in 1995, when he joined the then Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol with more than 30 years in the navy under his belt.

“It’s a passion and an interest. I love the idea of the sea and have a respect for it,” Mr Lynch said.

He has served in numerous roles, including Radio Operator, Watch Keeper, rescue vessel skipper, Administration Officer, Secretary, Secretary-Treasurer and as Unit Commander for six years, making an exceptional contribution to Marine Rescue NSW (MRNSW) over the past 21 years.

His dedication to the safety of the boating community is evident through his lengthy membership of the Forster-Tuncurry unit, and his six-year tenure as Unit Commander when he led the development of the Forster-Tuncurry Search and Rescue Coordination Centre.

His contribution has extended beyond his own unit through his responsibilities as the RVCP Senior Regional Officer North Coast, State Rescue Board Accreditation Team member, RVCP delegate to the Mid North Coast Marine Advisory Committee and Great Lakes Emergency Management Committee member. He was elected as the Mid North Coast Regional Director on the MRNSW Board in 2011, in 2013, and again in 2015.

“Mr Lynch has always been committed to the ideals of volunteerism and service.  He is a strong supporter of, and mentor to, other volunteers and his contributions to the development of Marine Rescue NSW and its ongoing operations have been of the highest order,” this year’s Meritorious Honours List states.

“It’s very rewarding. It’s about self satisfaction, knowing that you’ve made a good contribution in some ways,” Mr Lynch said.

“But it is very nice to be acknowledged. My family know how much time I’ve put in for it, they’ve had to fall into line on occasion,” he laughed. 

“Sometimes you think, what in the world am I doing out here now,” he admitted, referring to sea rescues. 

“But your training brings you through and once it’s all done you feel humble that you were able to help.

“It becomes one of those things that you look forward to, we’ve got a great group here in Forster. You’ve got to put something back into the community, not just accept what it gives you.”