Two dedicated volunteers with more than 100 years’ service between them have celebrated National Volunteer Week with Commonwealth awards. #NVW2021
Roz Grey OAM and Geoff Grey were formally recognised by The Royal Life Saving Society – Commonwealth for their service in Australia and internationally. Both originally joined the organisation in the 1960s.
They are part of a network of volunteers across the country that make local and high-level pool life saving events possible through their extensive behind-the-scenes work.
Royal Life Saving CEO, Justin Scarr said Roz and Geoff Grey were highly regarded across the world for their volunteer work.
“Their efforts at club, interstate, national and international levels have made an enormous difference beyond their immediate communities,” Mr Scarr said.
“Roz was awarded the Commonwealth Honorary Life Member for her work coaching, mentoring, refereeing, and accrediting both athletes and officials.
“Geoff received the Commonwealth Service Cross for service which has supported countries seeking to be more involved in lifesaving including The Philippines and China, as well as service to the Royal Life Saving NSW Board and to the NSW State Pool Life Saving team.”
Royal Life Saving Board Member Jim Whiteside presented Roz and Geoff Grey with their awards at a ceremony in Como, NSW.
“Roz has always been highly considered at all Australian and International Lifesaving events,” Mr Whiteside said.
“People understand that she’s a person of integrity, she knows her stuff, and she’s not afraid to stand her ground.
“I have sat on a couple of (pool life saving) appeals hearings with Geoff. I know how seriously he takes it, how much effort goes into it.
“I think it’s a credit to Geoff that he can handle the situation with such calm and a get a good result each time.”
Royal Life Saving Patron, His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd), Governor-General of Australia thanked all volunteers in a message to mark National Volunteers Week.
“Chances are you don’t volunteer for recognition or thanks – but you deserve both and National Volunteer Week is our opportunity to offer it to you,” His Excellency said.
