Marine Rescue Shellharbour volunteer Peter May ESM is marking an extraordinary milestone this month, celebrating 32 years of dedicated service to the Illawarra boating community.
Image: (L to R) Peter, former Unit Commander Rick O'Connor and Zone Commander Mike Hammond
Peter joined Marine Rescue NSW in July 1994 and has become one of the unit's most respected and experienced volunteers. Now 70 years of age, he remains an active vessel Master, Trainer and Assessor, sharing decades of knowledge with the next generation of rescue volunteers.
Peter earned his Master qualification in 2015 and was awarded the Emergency Services Medal in the 2018 Queen's Birthday Honours in recognition of his outstanding service. He is also a Life Member of Marine Rescue Shellharbour and is currently the unit's second longest-serving active volunteer.
Throughout his 32 years of service, Peter has participated in countless search and rescue missions, responding to emergencies at all hours of the day and night. Beyond his operational role, he has been instrumental in developing the capability of the unit through training, mentoring and assessing volunteers, particularly those progressing to become rescue vessel Coxswains.
Peter also served as Deputy Unit Commander for more than 15 years before stepping down from the leadership role in June this year. His dedication, reliability and wealth of maritime knowledge have earned him the respect of fellow volunteers across the organisation.
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey said Peter's contribution to Marine Rescue Shellharbour and the local community had been exceptional.
"Peter's commitment to Marine Rescue Shellharbour over the past 32 years has been nothing short of remarkable. He has devoted countless hours to keeping the boating community safe and has answered the call whenever people have needed assistance on the water."
"His experience as a mariner, vessel Master and mentor has helped shape the capability of the unit. Many of the Coxswains and vessel crew serving today have benefited from Peter's guidance, encouragement and willingness to share his knowledge."
"Peter has always led by example. Whether responding to a rescue mission, delivering training or supporting fellow volunteers, he approaches every task with professionalism, humility and genuine care for others."
"Marine Rescue Shellharbour is more than a volunteer unit to Peter, it is his extended family. His passion for boating safety and his unwavering commitment to serving the people of Shellharbour and the Illawarra continue to inspire everyone around him."
"On behalf of Marine Rescue NSW, I congratulate Peter on this outstanding milestone and sincerely thank him for his decades of loyal service. Volunteers like Peter are the foundation of our organisation, and the local boating community is safer because of his dedication."
Peter remains actively involved in frontline operations and volunteer training, continuing a legacy of service that spans more than three decades and shows no sign of slowing.
