Bungan Beach SLSC flags. Photo; Bungan Beach SLSC
Congratulations to the 357 surf lifesavers recognised with National Medals in SLSA National Medal Batch 55 and 56, announced March 31 2026.
Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) is proud to recognise the 357 surf lifesavers receiving National Medals in SLSA National Medal Batches 55 and 56. The National Medal, a prestigious part of the Australian honours system, celebrates individuals who have shown sustained and diligent service while protecting the community during emergencies and natural disasters.
This year’s recipients include 355 volunteers who have reached 15 years of service, along with two members receiving their 1st Clasp for 25 years of service. SLSA also extends special recognition to Grant Owen of Maroubra SLSC, who has been awarded his 1st and 2nd Clasp, marking an extraordinary 35 years of commitment to the Surf Life Saving movement.
SLSA President, Peter Agnew AM, commended the award recipients for their dedication and invaluable contributions to the Australian community.
“On behalf of Surf Life Saving Australia, I would like to congratulate the 357 surf lifesavers who have been honoured with National Medals for outstanding service,” he said.
“Each recipient should feel immense pride in the incredible impact they have made through their long-standing commitment to keep our coastlines and communities safe.
“Our movement is built on the passion and dedication of its volunteers. Those recognised with National Medals embody the spirit of Surf Life Saving, and we thank them for their many years of service.”
Nominations for Batch 55 and 56 recipients were formally submitted by SLSNSW on behalf of its members.
To submit a nomination for a National Medal, visit the SLS Hub and navigate to the ‘Forms’ tab.
For eligibility details and application information, explore the SLSA Recognition & Appreciation Framework.
Congratulations to the following local SLSA National Medal Batch 55 and 56 recipients:
National Medal – 1st Clasp (25 Years)
Edward Smithies, Newport SLSC, NSW
National Medals
Matt Harris Bilgola Beach SLSC, NSW
Sacha Dawson Bungan Beach SLSC, NSW
John Benson Dee Why SLSC, NSW
Zach Mcevoy Dee Why SLSC, NSW
Ivor Rees Dee Why SLSC, NSW
Sarah Rees Dee Why SLSC, NSW
Sharyn Vickers Freshwater SLSC, NSW
Michael Vilnis Freshwater SLSC, NSW
Andrew Dummett Long Reef SLSC, NSW
Margaret Pearson Long Reef SLSC, NSW
Paul Bailey Manly LSC, NSW
Claude Busse Manly LSC, NSW
James Keene Manly LSC, NSW
Julianne Kremer Manly LSC, NSW
Jane Macleod Manly LSC, NSW
Neil Moon Manly LSC, NSW
Alex Gold Narrabeen SLSC, NSW
Sean Townsend Narrabeen SLSC, NSW
Adam Atkins North Curl Curl SLSC, NSW
Holly MacKenzie North Curl Curl SLSC, NSW
Alan Prictor North Curl Curl SLSC, NSW
Kurt Wegenaar North Curl Curl SLSC, NSW
Alex Wheelahan North Curl Curl SLSC, NSW
Andrew Cross North Narrabeen SLSC, NSW
Dale Ferrington North Narrabeen SLSC, NSW
Brendan Hulme North Narrabeen SLSC, NSW
David Bambridge North Palm Beach SLSC, NSW
Desmond Silberberg North Steyne SLSC, NSW
Robert Davies Palm Beach SLSC, NSW
Bradley Newton Queenscliff SLSC, NSW
Marc Skelton Queenscliff SLSC, NSW
David Webb Queenscliff SLSC, NSW
Arthur Hoare Warriewood SLSC, NSW
Russell Lamb Warriewood SLSC, NSW
Philip Schmidt Whale Beach SLSC Inc, NSW
