Four outstanding Marine Rescue NSW volunteers have been named finalists for the 2026 Rotary Districts of NSW Emergency Services Community Awards (RESCA), recognising their exceptional commitment to saving lives on the water and serving their local communities.
Marine Rescue Merimbula volunteer Robert ‘Bob’ Ainsworth, Marine Rescue Jervis Bay’s Stefania Ring and Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking volunteer Steve Clifford have been named finalists for the 2026 Marine Rescue NSW Officer of the Year Award.
Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry volunteer Keseah Bell (pictured above) is also a finalist for the Dot Hennessy OAM Emergency Services Youth Scholarship.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Todd Andrews said the finalists exemplified the values of selfless service that underpin the work of the State’s volunteer marine rescue service.
“These volunteers represent the very best of Marine Rescue NSW. They give their time freely, often behind the scenes, to ensure boaters can enjoy our waterways safely and that help is available when it is needed most,” Commissioner Andrews said.
“Every day across New South Wales, our volunteers answer radios, crew rescue vessels, train their fellow members, raise funds and support their communities. The dedication shown by these finalists reflects the extraordinary contribution made by all 3,500 Marine Rescue NSW volunteers.”
Commissioner Andrews said being named a RESCA finalist was a significant achievement.
“To be recognised amongst the state’s emergency services volunteers is a tremendous honour. Robert, Stefania, Steve and Keseah have each made a positive impact within their units and local communities through their commitment and willingness to serve others.”
Robert Ainsworth (pictured above) has contributed more than eight years of service with Marine Rescue Merimbula as a qualified Coxswain (Restricted), radio operator, trainer, Membership Officer and Executive Officer. His dedication to mentoring volunteers, supporting recruitment and strengthening operational capability has made him an invaluable member of the unit.
Stefania Ring (pictured above) recently completed a two-year term as Unit Commander of Marine Rescue Jervis Bay, becoming both the unit’s first female and youngest commander when elected in 2024. Her leadership has ensured the unit remained operationally ready while fostering volunteer development and strong community partnerships. Earlier this month, Stefania was named Marine Rescue NSW Officer of the Year at the Rotary Shoalhaven Emergency Services Community Awards.
Steve Clifford (pictured above) has served with Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking for six years as a radio operator, rescue vessel crew member and Fundraising Manager. His efforts have strengthened the unit’s fundraising capability, supported operational readiness and helped promote boating safety throughout the community.
Commissioner Andrews said all three Officer of the Year finalists had demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment.
“Robert, Stefania and Steve each contribute in different ways, but they share the same unwavering commitment to helping others. Their leadership, professionalism and dedication make them worthy finalists and valued members of the Marine Rescue NSW family.”
Twenty-three-year-old Keseah Bell (pictured above) has quickly established herself as a highly capable volunteer since joining Marine Rescue Forster Tuncurry in January 2025. In just 16 months, she has attained both Crew and Radio Operator qualifications and now supports the local boating community through regular radio room duties and rescue vessel operations.
“Keseah represents the future of Marine Rescue NSW. Her enthusiasm, willingness to learn and commitment to serving her community are inspiring,” Commissioner Andrews said.
“It is particularly encouraging to see young volunteers stepping forward and embracing opportunities within the marine rescue sector. Keseah has already achieved so much in a short period of time, and I have no doubt she has a bright future ahead of her.”
The winners of the Marine Rescue NSW Officer of the Year Award and the Dot Hennessy OAM Emergency Services Youth Scholarship will be announced at the Rotary Districts of NSW Emergency Services Community Awards gala ceremony at Bankstown Sports Club on Saturday, 25 July.
