Umina Surf Life Saving Club’s Director of Lifesaving, Mollie Murphy has been recognised by the Rotary Districts of NSW at their annual Rotary Emergency Service Community Awards (RESCA), taking out the Surf Life Saving NSW category.
The Central Coast lifesaver of 13 years was awarded the top gong not only for her dedication and leadership on the front lines, but her work behind the scenes as well.
Mollie has championed several programs within the Umina surf club, including pink and rainbow patrols, skin checks and youth development opportunities to build future club leaders.
While all the nominees were worthy winners, Mollie was named ahead of Lower North Coast Director of Lifesaving and Duty Officer, Nathan De Rooy, Tweed Lifeguard Supervisor and 2023 NSW and Australian Lifeguard of the Year, Mariah Jones, and Nowra-Culburra SLSC’s vigilant Equipment and Facilities Director, Simon Fillery.
RESCA is the only time all Emergency Services personnel, both paid and volunteer, are recognised in a combined awards program.
It is a community-nominated Award which reflects the reputation and esteem in which the finalists are held by their local communities.
“We’re extremely proud of all four SLSNSW nominees at RESCA this year,” said SLSNSW Director of Lifesaving, Joel Wiseman.
“There are so many great stories to be told within our movement and Mollie, Nathan, Mariah, and Simon are all very worthy of recognition for their efforts.”
Mollie follows in the footsteps of some great lifesavers from recent years – North Bondi SLSC and Westpac Rescue Helicopter crewman, Stewart Bailey was the SLSNSW winner two years ago while Morgan Clarke from Woonona SLSC was both the SLSNSW and Overall winner in 2023.
Meanwhile, for the second year in a row, a deserving volunteer lifesaver went home with the Dorothy Hennessy OAM Youth Scholarship, as 19-year-old Kayla McKenzie – a Patrol Captain at Wollongong City SLSC – won the prestigious award.
Kayla will receive $1,000 towards further training and educational materials to assist in continuing her lifesaving journey.
Monday 12 August 2024