The efforts of Mandurah Volunteer Marine Rescue Group’s Barb Walton were recognised at a special ceremony last week.
The keen volunteer received a meritorious certificate and medals for her efforts throughout 15 years of service from Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) marine services manager Mark Eatts.
Ms Walton started volunteering with the group to spend more time with her husband, who was already a volunteer, and during her time as a volunteer she has held the positions of secretary, treasurer and social.
She has also manned radio shifts, obtained her restricted Coxswains and accredited new crew members for rescue vessels.
“I have enjoyed the past 15 years at Mandurah Volunteer Marine Rescue Group in doing my various roles,” she said.
“I enjoy assisting the members of the group and the general boating community in education to the awareness of safe boating practices.”
Ms Walton will continue in her role as the group’s secretary.
Planning ahead for a busy boating season
A Mandurah Volunteer Marine Rescue Group spokesperson said they were preparing for a very busy boating season after noticing an increase in rescues this month.
They urged boaties to ensure they logged on when venturing out into the ocean and the local waterways.
They also encouraged boat owners to sign up for a personal call sign to ensure all relevant information on the vessel and skipper is available in cases of recovery or search.
Last year, the group undertook 155 police-authorised search and rescue incidents.
