With 18 years in local police work, Detective Chief Inspector Daniel Sharkey has seen and done a lot.

Currently working as commander of the Target Action Group at Lake Illawarra, Inspector Sharkey is responsible for a number of key units overseeing drugs, weapons training and crash investigation.

His 30 years of police service, along with his contribution to surf lifesaving and swimming clubs, have been recognised with the Australian Police Medal.

Full list of Illawarra awardees

"Just the fact that someone went to the trouble to nominate me, that was quite humbling," Insp Sharkey said.

"That colleagues thought enough of me, that they felt I'd done something significant enough to be granted this award, I was very honoured."

Insp Sharkey joined the police force in 1979, initially stationed at Redfern. He made the move to the Illawarra in 1994 and was promoted to his current rank in 2004.

In addition to his police duties, Insp Sharkey has also served as local emergency operations controller for Kiama and Shellharbour.

"Not everyone gets this sort of honour," he said.

"I'm very proud."