Bill Blakeman of Greigs Flat has been awarded the Emergency Services Medal for his distinguished record of volunteer service to Marine Rescue New South Wales (MRNSW), and to the community of the Far South Coast.
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Mr Blakeman has served as a member of Marine Rescue at Merimbula for over 14 years. He holds the organisation's highest qualifications as a Marine Rescue master and watch officer and has undertaken numerous rescues in dangerous seas and challenging conditions.
He is also a member of the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association and the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol.
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His citation said that as his unit's training officer, he is committed to the professional development of other volunteers, drawing on his extensive experience and knowledge to ensure they can operate safely while fulfilling the MRNSW's mission to save lives on the water.
During his six years as the unit commander of Marine Rescue Merimbula, the unit experienced significant growth in membership and retention, with a high degree of volunteer satisfaction and commitment.
When the Black Summer bushfires struck the Far South Coast in early 2020, Mr Blakeman worked tirelessly in the local Emergency Operations Centre, helping to co-ordinate MRNSW volunteers to monitor NSW RFS radios overnight and undertake countless jobs in the four evacuation centres.
His work in the Emergency Operations Centre only ceased when he was forced to evacuate his family home, which was threatened by the advancing bushfires.
Denise Dion
Twice weekly
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