By Steven McDonald, president of Helensburgh-Stanwell Park Surf Life Saving Club

Helensburgh-Stanwell Park SLSC held its Awards of Excellence and Patrol Dinner on Friday, 21 May 2021. With more than 60 members, family and friends in attendance, the club recognised the success and contributions made by club members during the 2020/21 Season. 

Between September 2020 and April 202, club members performed more than 4200 volunteer hours on patrol, 935 preventative actions and 66 rescues. The low number of preventions and rescues indicates that the members of the public are listening to the “Swim Between The Flags” message. 

During the season club members gained 10 Surf Rescue Certificates, 15 Bronze Medallions, 7 Silver Medallion Beach Management Certificates, 3 IRB Drivers, 5 IRB Crew and 6 Advanced Resuscitation Techniques Certificates. 

The Club Member of the Year was Anthony “Ash” Ashley, a relatively new member to the club who did his Bronze Medallion at  Coogee SLSC, and joined Helensburgh-Stanwell Park SLSC after moving to the area with his young family. 

Ash has been the driving force behind the Sea Wolves IRB Racing Team and the Stanwell Park Ocean Swim, as well as fulfilling the role of Powercraft Captain and Patrol Captain. 

Ash’s enthusiasm for IRBs has drawn members into the team across a broad spectrum of ages. 

In its fourth season of racing, the training is starting pay off. The benefits to the club of having an IRB Racing Team is that the IRBs are always in excellent condition and “Rescue Ready”. 

The club’s Patrol Member of the Year was Ralph Hall AM. At nearly 81, Ralph is retiring from patrols this season. 

Ralph has mentored many members since completing his Bronze Medallion 20 years ago. He has been his patrol’s Captain for many years. Ralph is also the club Secretary and a training officer. While he may not be patrolling next season he will still be maintaining a presence around the club.

Congratulations to Ash and Ralph, and all our award winners.