Illawarra Inspector named Marine Rescue NSW Officer of the Year and overall winner at 2025 RESCA
by Marine Rescue NSW 4 Aug 01:25 PDT
2 August 2025
(l-r) Warren Collins, Stuart Massey, Alex Barrell, Julie Rostron and Helen Zielke © Marine Rescue NSW
Marine Rescue NSW Inspector Stuart Massey has been recognised with two awards at the prestigious 2025 Rotary Districts of NSW Emergency Services Community Awards (RESCA), held on Saturday 2nd August at Bankstown Sports Club.
Inspector Massey was named Marine Rescue NSW Officer of the Year before being awarded the RESCA Overall Winner (serving in a paid capacity).
Currently appointed as Zone Duty Operations Manager - Illawarra, Inspector Massey oversees seven Marine Rescue NSW units across the region. With an impressive 40 years' experience in emergency service roles, he plays a vital role in the 24/7 coordination of search and rescue missions, training and culturally inclusive community safety initiatives.
Speaking after receiving his awards, Inspector Massey said he was honoured and surprised by the recognition.
"I am very honoured to be the recipient of these two prestigious awards.
"When I heard my name, I was in absolute shock - I really thought one of the three other worthy finalists would receive the Marine Rescue NSW Officer of the Year Award.
Inspector Massey also paid tribute to those who have supported him in fulfilling his role.
"I love being able to be part of a big chain that gets people back safely to shore.
"I am privileged to work alongside dedicated and skilled volunteers.
"My role is key to saving lives on the water, and it's a big honour to have that role," Inspector Massey said.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell congratulated Inspector Massey on the achievement and acknowledged the efforts of all finalists.
"Stuart works so hard for the organisation and it is great to see his service and dedication recognised.
"He is very respected amongst the volunteers and staff and works around the clock to support our units in the delivery of their life-saving service to the boating community of NSW.
Finalists for the Marine Rescue NSW Officer of the Year Award also included Lake Macquarie Coxswain Warren Collins, Norah Head Unit Commander Julie Rostron and Sydney State Radio Operator Helen Zielke as well as Youth Scholarship finalist Terrigal's Rachael de Courcy.
"I extend my congratulations to Warren, Julie, Helen and Rachael on their selection as RESCA finalists - a true reflection of the high calibre of our volunteers.
Commissioner Barrell also thanked Rotary for shining a light on the invaluable work of emergency services.
"It's fantastic that Rotary continues to acknowledge emergency service workers and Marine Rescue NSW through RESCA.
"Our volunteers and staff work tirelessly to support local boaters and their local community, which gives these communities real faith and trust in our organisation," Commissioner Barrell said.
RESCA recognises the outstanding service of emergency services personnel across NSW, celebrating those who go above and beyond in protecting and serving the community.