Decades of Dedication Honoured as Marine Rescue Volunteers Receive National Medals at Nelson Head

newy.com.au – Two long-serving Marine Rescue Port Stephens volunteers have received national recognition for their dedication, with a combined three decades of service acknowledged during a ceremony at Nelson Head.

Rescue vessel skipper and Watch Officer Laurie Nolan and IT Systems Lead and Watch Officer Lee Ryman were each awarded the National Medal for 15 years of service. The medals were presented by Member for Port Stephens, Kate Washington MP, with senior representatives from Marine Rescue NSW also in attendance, including Commissioner Alex Barrell, Deputy Commissioners Darren Schott and Todd Andrews, Central Zone Commander Dan Duemmer, and Unit Commander Ben van der Wijngaart.

The National Medal honours sustained and diligent service by personnel who place themselves at risk to assist others during emergencies or natural disasters.

Commissioner Barrell commended both volunteers, stating, “It is wonderful to see two of our members, Laurie and Lee, being awarded the National Medal for 15 years of dedicated service to Marine Rescue New South Wales. The work and commitment that they’ve given to Marine Rescue Port Stephens over the last 15 years has been a tremendous service not only to our unit but also to the local community.”

Nolan, who has held various executive and operational roles within the unit, continues to mentor crew members as a Coxswain and Watch Officer. “When I first joined Marine Rescue NSW, I never imagined I’d still be doing this 15 years later,” he said. “These days, I find myself in their shoes—mentoring the next generation, passing on what I’ve learnt about seamanship, staying calm under pressure, and just showing up for each other.”

He added, “It’s not about medals—it’s about being there when someone needs help, no matter the time or weather.”

Ryman has provided essential leadership in maintaining the unit’s IT systems, ensuring reliable communication tools for rescue operations. He played a key role in restoring infrastructure following lightning damage to the base in April 2024. “It wasn’t pretty, but we got it done, and we kept the comms up the whole time,” he said. “Behind every rescue, there’s a network of people, systems, and trust. I’m proud to have spent the last 15 years helping ensure those systems support our crews when the call comes in.”

Commissioner Barrell described both recipients as trusted and respected members of the service. “The local community is privileged to have such highly skilled and dedicated volunteers ready to assist them in their time of need,” he said.

Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based, not-for-profit professional organisation committed to ensuring boating safety and supporting coastal communities.