Illawarra Surf Life Saver Anthony Turner honoured at state awards

Mr Turner and other locals were congratulated for achievements in a virtual Surf Life Saving NSW Awards for Excellence on Saturday night.

Bulli SLSC took out the Surf Sports Team of the Year for their unrivalled Open Men's Surf Boat Crew and David Winner from Coalcliff was awarded Patrol Captain of the Year.

While Mr Turner - who is currently the Duty Officer and media spokesman for the Illawarra branch - received the prestigious President's Medal for his years of contribution.

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The annual Awards of Excellence event celebrates the outstanding achievements of volunteer surf lifesavers across surf sports, education, administration, membership and lifesaving.

Central Coast SLSC took home six major awards including Branch of the Year, while Umina Beach SLSC won three awards including Patrol of the Year and the prestigious Club of the Year award.

The coveted Surf Lifesaver of the Year Award was taken out by Tony Worton from Camden Haven SLSC on the Mid North Coast.

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This year marks the 40th anniversary of the official involvement of women in Surf Life Saving as active patrol members and so it was fitting that the Volunteer of the Year Award was won by Hunter Branch member Debbie Booth from Tea Gardens-Hawks Nest SLSC.

Surf Life Saving NSW President George Shales said the virtual awards were a success in bringing 129 NSW surf clubs together.

"Last season was one of the toughest on record with bushfires along the NSW coast and the impact of the Coronavirus ending the summer patrol season early," Mr Shales said.

"Despite the challenges we faced, our volunteers rose to the occasion - and they continue to do so in support of their communities. Each year our volunteer surf lifesavers put hundreds of thousands of hours into protecting the public on our beaches, but this year our members responded well beyond the beach and into the wider community.

"We couldn't be prouder of the way our volunteers displayed courage, bravery and resilience in some of the harshest conditions. They are innovators, leaders, educators, athletes, watermen and women. They have proven themselves to be among the most skilled first responders on the NSW coastline and we are delighted to recognise the best in each field at our annual Awards of Excellence," Shales concluded.

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