Peter May’s dedication to Marine Rescue NSW and the boating public has made him a valued member of the state’s emergency services.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
He has therefore been recognised for his efforts with an Emergency Services Medal.
The Albion Park Rail resident has been actively involved with Marine Rescue NSW at Shellharbour, and its predecessor, the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association, for more than 24 years.
Mr May has saved many lives on water through his own operational skill and experience garnered from his long, dedicated service.
“I’m very honoured and humbled,” the 62-year-old said.
“I don’t do what I do for pats on the back.
“I just see it as giving something back to the community I live in.
“The best thing over the 25 years is probably the people I’ve met and the people I work with, as well as some of the out of the ordinary things that have happened over those 25 years.”
As a Master Coxswain, the father of two and grandfather of five is one of the unit's more experienced rescue crew members, and has taken part in numerous search and rescue operations over the years, often in hazardous conditions, to return boaters at-risk to safety.
His innovative approaches and operational experience has also seen him act as local On-Water Coordinator for several Sydney to Hobart Yacht Races.
Mr May has made major contributions to training for the unit, the wider Marine Rescue NSW organisation, and the boating community.
He has represented the Shellharbour Unit at state and national levels on the Coast Guard National Training Review and Advisory Committee, contributing to the development of training modules, materials and procedures to ensure crews are skilled to the highest standards.
Mr May has been a senior trainer for all the Marine Rescue Units in the Illawarra region for many years.
As a Deputy Unit Commander, he also plays a vital role in the management of the unit.