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National Recognition Details

The honours were announced as part of a national recognition round administered by Surf Life Saving Australia, which acknowledged 212 members across the country for long and sustained service involving risk to life and property. 

The awards form part of the Australian honours system and recognise members who meet eligibility standards set by the Commonwealth. The Avalon Beach recipients were named in the latest National Medal batch released by Surf Life Saving Australia.

Avalon Beach Recipients

Avalon Beach Surf Life Saving Club members Mark Head and Wilson Gamble were recognised for meeting national service thresholds through consistent patrol participation across many seasons. 

Head received a National Medal with a 1st Clasp, reflecting service beyond the initial 15-year requirement, while Gamble was awarded the National Medal for completing the minimum period of eligible patrol service. Their recognition reflects years spent patrolling Avalon Beach, maintaining annual proficiency, and completing required patrol hours each season.

How National Medal Service is Measured

Eligibility for the National Medal is governed by federal regulation rather than club or organisational discretion. Members must complete at least 30 patrol or lifeguarding hours per season across a minimum of 15 full years, measured by recognised patrol seasons running from 1 July to 30 June. Service does not need to be continuous, though only approved and proficient patrol seasons are counted. 

Junior activities, cadet service, and approved leave periods do not contribute toward eligibility. Additional clasps are awarded for each further 10 years of verified service, with full service records reassessed at each stage.

Community Impact at Avalon Beach

Avalon Beach SLSC has a long history of volunteer patrol work, training, and community safety dating back to its formation in 1925. The club continues to support beachgoers through regular patrols, rescue response, and water safety education. 

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National Medal recognition places local members among a limited number nationwide who have met long-term operational service requirements. For the Avalon community, the awards reflect the steady commitment required to keep the beach safe season after season.

Published 29-December-2025

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Read: Avalon Beach Surf Life Saving Club Marks 100 Years of Community Service

The National Medal, awarded on behalf of the Governor-General of Australia, acknowledges individuals who have demonstrated long and diligent service in organisations dedicated to protecting life and property. Originally established as a military recognition in 1975, it has since become one of Australia’s highest civilian honours.

Leading the honours for Avalon Beach SLSC is Warren Young OAM, who has been awarded the National Medal – First Clasp in recognition of 25 years of service. Several other dedicated club members have received the National Medal for 15 years of service, highlighting their commitment to keeping beachgoers safe. These recipients include:

• Robert Hopton
• Richard Cole
• Geoffrey Ward
• Peter Brennan
• Jeffrey Nesbitt
• William Elliott
• Colin Campbell
• Nicholas Wood
• Michael Stanley-Jones
• Roland Luke
• Tim Hixson
• Mark Heffernan
• Jason Brown

Bilgola SLSC Awardees Recognised

Several members of Bilgola Surf Life Saving Club have also been honoured with the National Medal for their dedication to surf lifesaving. The following individuals have been recognised for 15 years of service:

• Romilly Madew
• Peter Fenley
• Levi Broughton-Rouse
• Robert Farr
• Andrea Whittet
• Bruce Scheffers
• Geoff Raper
• Craig Poppleton
• John Lawson
• David Gillard
• Greg Franks
• Louise Edgley
• David Edgley
• Nigel Penn

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The honours received by Avalon Beach and Bilgola SLSC members highlight their dedication, selflessness, and years of service in protecting the lives of beachgoers. Their commitment plays a crucial role in maintaining surf lifesaving as an essential part of the Australian coastal community.

Published 28-February-2025

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