NSW Maritime Medal winner - George Tedds

by Penny Robins on 26 Nov 2010 Marine rescue volunteer George Tedds of Laurieton was today awarded a 2010 NSW Maritime Medal for sustained and voluntary contribution to the State’s boating community.

NSW Maritime Chief Executive Steve Dunn presented the 88-year-old Mr Tedds with his medal aboard the Tall Ship James Craig, at the official presentation of the 2010 Maritime Medals.

Mr Dunn singled out Mr Tedds for his involvement in marine rescue since becoming a radio watch operator at Camden Haven over 22 years ago, noting that Mr Tedds was instrumental in building the local organisation over that time.

'When George joined Camden Haven, the squad operated out of a small shed with a privately owned vessel and less than 30 members,' Mr Dunn said.

'Under George’s stewardship first as the President of the Volunteer Rescue Association unit from 1996, and now as its newly elected Unit Commander as part of Marine Rescue NSW, the squad has secured better vessels, a new building, improved training room and membership is now close to 100 members and over 300 radio club members.'

Mr Dunn said Mr Tedds had brought invaluable radio skills and qualifications to his volunteering, as well as his computer engineer skills and the many experiences from service as an RAAF pilot during WWII.

He has been instrumental in ensuring his unit has been incorporated into Marine Rescue NSW and is acclaimed within the volunteer community for his ability to encourage and support others,' Mr Dunn said.

Mr Dunn applauded Mr Tedds for his tireless efforts to inspire others with his honesty, insight and humility.

The Maritime Medal was designed to acknowledge those who made an outstanding and sustained contribution to the maritime community, Mr Dunn said.

www.maritime.nsw.gov.au