Five members from Coogee SLSC have been recognised with National Medals, placing the historic beachside club among a select group of volunteers nationally acknowledged for long and sustained service in surf lifesaving roles across Australia.
National Recognition For Coogee SLSC Service
The honours were awarded through Surf Life Saving Australia as part of the Australian honours system, which recognises volunteers who have completed a minimum of 15 years of eligible patrol service.
The Coogee SLSC recipients are Heather Hawkins, Doug Hawkins, Peter Hooker, Aonghus Murray and Melinda Toomey. Each member met strict service requirements based on verified patrol seasons and operational duties. The service reflects long-term involvement in surf lifesaving at Coogee Beach.
What The National Medal Represents
The National Medal is awarded for long and diligent service in roles involving risk to life and public safety. Within surf lifesaving, eligibility is measured through approved patrol records rather than overall membership length.
Service does not need to run continuously, but only recognised patrol seasons count toward qualification. Applications are assessed at club, state, and national levels. Final approval follows through the federal honours process to ensure a consistent national standard.
Coogee SLSC’s Longstanding Community Role
Founded in 1907, Coogee Surf Life Saving Club is one of Australia’s oldest surf lifesaving clubs. It is a foundation club of the national movement and helped shape early beach patrols and lifesaving practices in New South Wales.
Today, Coogee SLSC remains a major volunteer organisation. Hundreds of members support patrols each season, youth programs, training pathways, and community events at Coogee Beach.
Local Service Reflected In National Honours
The recognition of five Coogee members highlights the depth of long term service within the club and the commitment required to maintain beach safety year after year. Their awards reflect years of early mornings, weekend patrols and public holiday shifts focused on protecting swimmers and beachgoers.
For the local community, the honours provide formal recognition of volunteer service that supports everyday safety at one of Sydney’s busiest beaches.
Published 29-December-2025
