Two long-serving Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking volunteers have been recognised for a remarkable combined 120 years of emergency service at a special ceremony at the unit's Hungry Point Reserve base in Cronulla.
Image: (L to R) Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Todd Andrews, Noel Parkinson and Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking Unit Commander Aaron Blackwell
Marine Rescue NSW Life Member and retired NSW Police Inspector Noel Parkinson received the National Medal fifth clasp recognising 65 years of service, while fellow volunteer Allan Russell received the National Medal fourth clasp recognising 55 years of combined service with Marine Rescue NSW, the Rural Fire Service and State Emergency Service.
The National Medal, first awarded after 15 years of service, recognises long and diligent service by members of recognised government and voluntary organisations who risk their lives or safety to protect and assist the community during emergencies and natural disasters.
Parkinson has served with Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking since February 2001 and is one of the unit's most respected and experienced volunteers. As a Coxswain and Watch Officer, he has played a vital role in countless search and rescue missions and has previously served as Unit Commander. In recognition of his outstanding contribution, he was made a Life Member of Marine Rescue NSW and rescue vessel Botany Port Hacking 32 proudly bears his name.
Image: (L to R) Commissioner Andrews, Allan Russell and Unit Commander Blackwell
Russell joined Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking in early 2000 and has fulfilled numerous roles within the unit. Today, he serves as both Training Officer and Watch Officer and is regarded as one of the unit's most dedicated and dependable volunteers, helping shape generations of members through his leadership and commitment.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Todd Andrews said the awards recognised far more than years of service.
"Noel and Allan have dedicated decades of service to Marine Rescue NSW and our partner agencies. Their unwavering dedication has saved lives, supported countless families and strengthened communities along the Sydney coast. We are forever grateful for their service.
"People often say volunteering is about giving your time. But anyone who has worn the blue uniform knows it is so much more than that. It is giving your commitment, your experience and your compassion. It is putting your community before yourself, often at great personal sacrifice. It is standing ready 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, knowing the next call could come at any moment.
"We honour not just the years they have served, but the extraordinary selflessness, resilience and generosity those years represent. Noel and Allan's service is an enduring reminder of the very best of volunteering and an inspiration to every member of Marine Rescue NSW," Commissioner Andrews said.
Image: Marine Rescue NSW vessel Botany Hacking 32, the Noel Parkinson
Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking Unit Commander Aaron Blackwell said both men had made an immeasurable contribution to the unit and the wider community.
"Noel and Allan are two remarkable individuals. They are selfless, committed volunteers who have done so much more than simply fill positions within our unit. They have mentored fellow members, helped save countless lives and reinforced the importance of boating safety throughout our community.
"The communities from Botany Bay to Cronulla, throughout Port Hacking and along the Georges River should be incredibly proud of these two men, of the sacrifices they have made and of the lives they have helped save. For decades they have answered the call whenever boaters needed assistance.
"Our unit is immensely proud of Noel and Allan, and we are deeply grateful for their unwavering commitment to serving both Marine Rescue NSW and our local community," Unit Commander Blackwell said.
