Rare distinction with life memberships for Ballina marine rescue crew

MARINE Rescue Ballina has celebrated the achievements of three of its longest-serving members with Lorraine Leuckel, Norm Lannoy, and John Donoghue awarded life memberships.

Life memberships are only awarded in exceptional circumstances at marine rescue and recognise volunteers who have dedicated decades to protecting the boating community.

Ballina unit commander Peter Hill said the trio have held crucial roles at the service for more than 20 years.

“Lorraine, Norm and John have devoted countless hours, immense skill and unwavering commitment to Marine Rescue NSW,” he said.

“Their service embodies the very best of our organisation and reflects a deep dedication to the safety and wellbeing of the Ballina community.

“Their work has strengthened our unit, supported local boaters for decades and helped save countless lives on the water.”

The trio have spent a combined 73 years at the service with Leuckel joining the ranks as a radio operator in 2004.

She took on significant training and leadership roles, serving as first aid trainer for 15 years.

Leuckel also spent five years on boat crew, including serving on Ballina’s first all-female crew, and contributed as membership officer for six years.

She later served as deputy unit commander during the transition to the new tower between 2016 and 2018.

Lannoy’s service began in 1998, and he went on to serve as the final Coast Guard unit commander in Ballina and the first Marine Rescue NSW unit commander.

He was a training officer for eight years and continues to contribute as a radio operator, and is highly regarded for his leadership, skill and long-standing dedication.

Donoghue joined the Coast Guard, North Coast Squadron in 1999 and quickly became involved in planning for the Ballina control tower.

He was the squadron safety officer and delivered fire and water safety training across the region

He has served as a radio operator, unit commander for three years, safety officer for evacuation procedures, and maintenance officer.

“Each of them has contributed in remarkable and meaningful ways over many years,” Hill said.

“Their leadership, professionalism and community spirit set a powerful example for every volunteer.”

“Ballina is privileged to have three volunteers of such calibre.”