A VOLUNTEER who has served Marine Rescue NSW for almost a quarter of a century has been honoured with an Emergency Services Medal in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours List.
Suzanne Freeman, a volunteer with Marine Rescue Port Stephens, was previously awarded the Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner’s Commendation for Courage and subsequently the Australian Bravery Medal for her courage and professionalism during the January 2016 East Coast Low.
She has participated in numerous rescue operations, many conducted in challenging offshore conditions.
Suzanne has provided service to Marine Rescue for 24 years and is a highly experienced Coxswain and Watch Officer.
Throughout her career she has notched up more than 4900 operational hours on rescue vessels and more than 1350 hours in the radio room.
The Emergency Services Medal was awarded in recognition of her operational leadership, mentorship and unwavering commitment to volunteer welfare.
Suzanne is recognised as a trusted mentor and passionate advocate for fellow volunteers, particularly women within Marine Rescue NSW.
Suzanne was one of three Marine Rescue NSW volunteers to receive honours.The other two recipients were Paul Ballard, Master and Unit Commander at Marine Rescue Port Jackson, and David Farmer, Coxswain and Deputy Unit Commander at Marine Rescue Alpine Lakes.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Todd Andrews congratulated the trio, describing the honour as a fitting recognition of their outstanding service to the community.
“Their dedication and commitment to serving boaters and those who enjoy our waterways is appreciated not only by Marine Rescue NSW, but also by the wider community,” Commissioner Andrews said.
By Eve NESMITH
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