Mark Asper, Trevor Davies, Trevor Williams and Joe Sciancalepore, and radio operators Sue Cook, Rob Rego and Barry Waters were recognised for their rescue of a man from a burning boat earlier this year. Photo: Marine Rescue NSW.
Volunteers who rushed to rescue a man from a burning boat at Greenwell Point this year have been recognised for their bravery.
In August seven Marine Rescue crew members were patrolling the Shoalhaven River when they saw a 12-metre sailing vessel ablaze on the nearby Crookhaven River.
Vessel crew members Mark Asper, Trevor Davies, Trevor Williams and Joe Sciancalepore, and radio operators Sue Cook, Rob Rego and Barry Waters urged the lone sailor to jump ship and saved him from the water.
The man suffered from smoke inhalation and hypothermia, but was otherwise OK.
The volunteers who took part in the rescue were awarded the Zone Commander’s Citation and the Unit Commander’s Medal in a ceremony at the Marine Rescue Shoalhaven radio base.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Glenn Sullivan said the team’s hard work didn’t stop after they rescued the boater.
“Once the boater was safely on shore the crew ferried RFS personnel and a portable water pump to the vessel. Firefighters then extinguished the blaze,” Inspector Sullivan said.
Marine Rescue NSW Southern Zone Commander Mike Hammond said the rescue was a wonderful example of how volunteers protected their community.
“The professionalism of our crew and radio operators during this mission was exceptional,” he said.
“The quick thinking, timely action and casualty care given by the master and crew of SA 30, along with coordination from the radio base, were critical to the positive outcome of what could have been a tragic incident.”
Three other long-serving volunteers were recognised at the same ceremony.
Marine Rescue Shoalhaven vessel master Paul Poulsen received the National Medal for 15 years of service, acknowledging long and diligent service in protecting or assisting the community in emergencies.
Watch officer John Majewski was awarded the Marine Rescue NSW Medal for 10 years of service while crew member Syd Davis received his third National Medal Clasp for 45 years of combined service.
“Marine Rescue NSW and the Shoalhaven community are fortunate to have such highly skilled and dedicated volunteers,” said zone commander Hammond.
“I congratulate and thank them for their unwavering commitment to service.”
Marine Rescue Shoalhaven is actively recruiting new volunteers, particularly radio operators.
Trainees receive comprehensive training and uniforms free of charge.
Radio operators play a crucial role as the first voice a boater in distress hears, managing communications that are vital to emergency response.
Interested individuals can learn more at www.marinerescuensw.com.au
