Volunteer lifesavers thanked for services over summer

NSW Premier Mike Baird thanked volunteer lifesavers at a reception at Queenscliff Surf Life Saving Club today as part of National Volunteer Week.

Mr Baird met with Queenscliff SLSC President, Kevin Harris, as well as patrolling members to thank them for the contributions of the Queenscliff, North Curl Curl, South Curl Curl, Freshwater, North Steyne and Manly SLSC’s during the last season.

“I’d like to extend my gratitude to more than two million volunteers in NSW who give up their time to assist others,” Mr Baird said.

“There are more than 75,000 volunteer lifesavers in NSW who put their lives on the line to save others, and give up their time during the Summer months to keep our beaches safe.

“It’s comforting to know that someone is keeping a watchful eye on us when we’re enjoying a day at the beach, and for that I’d like to say thank you.

“Volunteers are found everywhere in our society, including aged care, health care, emergency services - all of which simply could not function well without their contributions.”

Mr Harris said Queenscliff SLSC has a proud tradition of volunteering.

“Surf Life Saving Clubs across the state rely on volunteers, many of whom join from a young age and stay with the club into their later years,” Mr Harris said.

“This National Volunteer Week we have an opportunity to thank the men and women who don the red and yellow to protect the state’s beaches.

“The dedication of our volunteer lifesavers has made their contributions something of a way of life in Australia, and we are proud to continue that tradition into the future.”

Nominations are now open for the 2014 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards.