Moama Marine Rescue Unit Commander Luke Sharrock was honoured with a set of medals and a letter from the NSW Marine Rescue Commissioner for completing 10 years of service.
Unit Commander Sharrock began his volunteer service with NSW Marine Rescue a decade ago, where he wanted to use skills he had obtained through work and his life to help his community.
Mr Sharrock received the set of medals and a congratulatory letter written by NSW Marine Rescue Commissioner Alex Barrell at the Moama Unit on Monday, September 2.
NSW Marine Rescue South Zone Commander Michael Hammond was there to present Mr Sharrock with the honour and give him a few words of encouragement and thanks for his hard work leading the Moama Unit.
Mr Sharrock highlighted his reasoning for joining NSW Marine Rescue 10 years ago and emphasised how happy he was to receive the medals of commendation from his commanding officer.
“When I first started a decade ago, I figured with the skills I already had that it’d be a good way to give back to the community and the people in the local region,” he said.
“I felt very honoured to receive the medal, and I was presented it by Michael Hammond, the Zone Commander of the south region; he handles anything from an emergency service perspective from the south of Sydney onwards.
“With this type of volunteering, we sometimes have to deal with some not-so-nice things, so it’s great to celebrate the wins when they come along, so that was a good feeling to be recognised.”
Mr Sharrock urged anyone interested in volunteering to do so, as he finds it satisfying to give back to his community.
He also reflected on the Moama unit’s current status and its significant and positive development since his arrival.
“It’s a very rewarding way to give back to the community, especially when incidents occur, and we can help in any way,” he said.
“Ten years is a long time, but it’s onward and upward from here. Over the last decade, I’ve seen the unit evolve. It’s certainly grown, and moving forward, we are in a stronger position to help our community.
“Everyone in the unit is of different ages and from different backgrounds, with varying skill sets, so there is room for anyone with a good attitude and who is willing to give their best to help.”
If you would like to inquire about joining Marine Rescue NSW Moama Unit you can visit their website at moama.marinerescuensw.com.au or call the base on 0499 577 633.