By RON LANE
LOCAL surf club member Anthony J LaMarseny has just received one of Surf Life Saving’s highest awards, the National Medal.
This is the result of an extraordinary 25 years of outstanding service to Helicopter Rescue in Sydney.
This medal is awarded by the governing body of Life Saving Australia, the National Council, for Emergency Services in Surf Life Saving.
Tony, who is 56, currently holds dual membership, one with Noosa and the other with Coogee in Sydney.
It was with Coogee that his career started in 1963.
At only five, he became one of the original nippers at the Coogee club. For Tony, it was the start of what has become a family affair. His father John was already a member of Coogee.
“I got my bronze when I turned 15 and I got a real buzz out of being in the club with the old man. He is now something of a legend; won medals at national level in surf boats and skis, was captain of the Australian team and is now a life member.”
After shifting to the Sunshine Coast with his family, Tony, along with his son Lachie, joined Noosa 12 years ago.
Despite having built his home at Peregian, he still flies to Sydney every two weeks to fulfill his helicopter roster.
Apart from his Sydney duties he has also served a year as a member of Care Flight, which is based in Darwin.
“Because I now live interstate I am on a sort of floating patrol and it works well.”
During his time in Coogee, Tony served as junior then senior club captain and in competition won medals a state level and was a also a member of the NSW surf team.
“In surf club life the family environment is very important and for our young members there is always mentors there to help if needed,” he said.
“It is probably one of the few organisations that have members from 15 to 70.”
Despite his long service standing Tony has also served as a patrolman on Noosa Beach and also proudly represented Noosa at many carnival. The National Medal is indeed a well-deserved honor.
