CAMDEN Haven Surf Life Saving Club (CHSLC) held their annual Awards of Excellence on Friday, 6 June at Laurieton United Services Club (LUSC).
The awards night marked the culmination of the 2024/25 season, with members of the Camden Haven surf lifesaving fraternity recognised for their dedication, hard work and community contributions.
Among the award recipients were Ben Hosick and Thomas Maxwell, who were named ‘Lifesavers of the Year’ in the Senior and Junior categories respectively.
The ‘Volunteer of the Year’ awards went to Lillian Hosick and Gary Hawkins in the Junior and Senior categories respectively, for their selfless service and unwavering support to the club.
Leah Rumsby and Peter Bagnall were named ‘Club Persons of the Year’ in the Youth and Senior categories respectively, acknowledging their outstanding leadership, teamwork, and dedication.
However, the highlight of the evening was the awarding of Life Membership to Tony Worton, in recognition of his exceptional leadership and tireless dedication to CHSLC.
Tony’s commitment to the club is clearly evident through his countless hours of service, including in his current role as Director of Lifesaving.
In December 2013 Tony gained his Bronze Medallion and has since patrolled over 1667 documented hours.
His involvement during a rescue operation in 2016/17 resulted in him being awarded the Surf Life Saving Australia Meritorious Award and SLSNSW Rescue of the Year.
Tony’s continued efforts and outstanding performance were further recognised in 2019/20 when he was named the Surf Life Saving NSW Surf Lifesaver of the Year.
In his heartfelt acceptance speech upon receiving the Life Membership, Tony gracefully acknowledged the profound impact of his mentor John Vipond, as well as his admiration for the CHSLC.
“I love Camden Haven,” said Tony.
“I will forever be grateful to all that John taught me.
“His influence has helped to shape me into the surf lifesaver I am today.
“If I can see something that needs doing or something I can do to improve for the club I will do it as I never want any of our members to struggle.
“I want our team to be rescue ready all the time.”
By Kim AMBROSE
