Marine Rescue NSW celebrates 25th National Volunteer Week

by Ken McManus on 11 May 2014 Marine Rescue NSW has encouraged members of the community to take the time to thank a volunteer this week, which marks the 25th anniversary of National Volunteer Week.

National Volunteer Week runs from May 12 to 18, with this year’s theme Celebrate the Power of Volunteering.

MRNSW Commissioner Stacey Tannos said the Week was about appreciating and understanding the work of six million volunteers across the nation and the vital contribution they made to all sectors of our community.

'Marine Rescue has more than 3,300 volunteers in 45 units along the coastline from the Queensland border to Eden and inland on the Alpine Lakes and the Murray River at Moama,' he said.

'The extraordinary power of their volunteering is spelt out in our mission to save lives on the water. Without each and every one of them, we would not be able to fulfill that mission and provide our essential safety services.

'The NSW boating public is much safer on the water thanks to the vigilance of our members. I thank them all for their skill, time and commitment, not just this week but every week of the year.'

Commissioner Tannos said he urged everyone to make sure they took the time this week to thank a volunteer from Marine Rescue NSW and other organisations for their hard work and dedication to serving our community.

'Volunteers don’t give their time and effort for thanks, praise or reward. They are selfless quiet achievers – and that’s one of the reasons they deserve public recognition and acclaim. What better time to say thank you than during National Volunteer Week?'

Commissioner Tannos has also encouraged members of the community interested in volunteering to get in touch with their local Marine Rescue NSW unit.

'We welcome new members who are interested in serving their community and becoming one of a team of emergency service volunteers. It’s a richly rewarding experience,' he said.

'You don’t have to have marine or boating experience. There’s a role for almost everyone in a MRNSW unit, with our members serving in roles including rescue vessel crew, radio operators, fundraisers or in administration, training or community engagement.'

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