Torquay lifesaver named volunteer of the year

THE Surf Coast and Bellarine’s best and brightest in the aquatic community were recognised at the 15th annual Awards of Excellence at the weekend.

The Torquay Surf Life Saving Club boasted an impressive group of nominees on the night, a tribute to the club’s dedication to the lifesaving service and sport.

Holden Volunteer of the Year (Graeme Long Memorial Medal) was presented to Patrick Spinazzola, recognised for his drive to build lifesaving camp programs, as well as raising the profile of training and assessment within the club.

Competition Official of the Year Award winner Rod Costa is an institution at TSLSC, as an accredited SLSA official with involvement in surf boat officiating and announcing over the past 37 years.

Last season saw Rod holding officiating roles at LSV carnivals and championships, SLSA Australian championships, plus state and national surf boat championships.

Grace Harris was recognised as a Finalist in the Youth Athlete of the Year category, after an impressive season, winning a silver medal at the Australian Championships in Perth.

Also nominated were the Torquay Pirates Boat Crew and Life Member Bill Johnston.

“We are grateful to have such an engaged group of members and volunteers who have such passion for our club, and it means a lot to be recognised by the lifesaving community,” TSLSC President Tiffany Quinlan said.

Meanwhile, Heath Armstrong from Lorne SLSC was presented with the Microflite John Wishart Memorial Medal Lifesaver of the Year award for his outstanding contribution to lifesaving, and Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club won the 2018 Victorian Championships Point Score Winner in the Aquatic Sports Awards section.