Mandurah Surf Life Saving Club volunteer Russell Price was given the top gong as the AGL WA Lifesaver of the Year at an presentation night earlier this month.
The local legend was crowned the state's finest at the WA Surf Life Saving Awards of Excellence dinner, honouring his tireless work as the club's director of life saving.
Over the past 12 months Mr Price has put in upwards of 300 registered hours for the club, including his work inside their San Remo base while also patrolling the beaches.
It's a total that doesn't include the behind-the-scenes efforts that come with being involved in a surf life saving club, but Price says the work is worth it to be part of Mandurah's life saving community.
"It's like a big family," he said.
"Everyone involved is really close and there's a real tight-knit feel about surf clubs.
"I first joined after signing my daughter up for the Nippers program here six years ago, and since then I've been able to see the growth of the club and it's really rewarding when you're so invested."
That club growth was also highlighted at the awards night, with Mandurah finishing third among the club of the year finalists.
Recent times have seen the club expand their patrols from San Remo out to both Town Beach and Doddies Beach, while also pitching in to provide support at several community events.
They've also worked hard to enhance inclusivity at the club, launching Western Australia's first Starfish Nippers program, which is designed to teach children and young adults about beach safety and water awareness.
It's a workload the club has taken in their stride, according to Mr Price.
"It's definitely a big commitment, but everyone has been working hard to make sure we can serve the Mandurah community and it's paying off," he said.
"I'm stoked for the club to come third overall. I'm probably more stoked for that than I am for my individual award.
"To be part of the push to promote an inclusive environment and make surf life saving available to everyone, it makes you proud to be a part of the club."
Mr Price now goes on to represent WA at the Surf Life Saving Australia Awards of Excellence on the Gold Coast in November.
For more information on the Mandurah Surf Life Saving Club call 9518 1419.
Justin Rake
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
