Two Marine Rescue Port Stephens volunteers, with a combined 30 years of experience between them, have been celebrated during a ceremony at Nelson Head.
Rescue vessel skipper and Watch Officer Laurie Nolan, and IT Systems Lead and Watch Officer Lee Ryman, were presented with the National Medal for 15 years of service by the Member for Port Stephens, Kate Washington MP.
Kate Washington and Laurie Nolan
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell, Deputy Commissioners Darren Schott and Todd Andrews, Central Zone Commander Dan Duemmer, and Marine Rescue Port Stephens Unit Commander Ben van der Wijngaart also attended the ceremony to acknowledge the pair.
L to R – Ben van der Wijngaart, Dan Duemmer, Darren Schott, Lee Ryman, Kate Washington MP, Laurie Nolan, Commissioner Alex Barrell and Todd Andrews
The National Medal recognises long and diligent service by members of recognised government and voluntary organisations who risk their lives or safety to protect or assist the community in times of emergency or natural disaster.
“It is wonderful to see two of our members, Laurie and Lee, being awarded the National Medal for 15 years of dedicated service to Marine Rescue New South Wales. The work and commitment that they’ve given to Marine Rescue Port Stephens over the last 15 years has been a tremendous service not only to our unit but also to the local community,” said Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell.
Nolan has served in numerous executive and operational roles at the unit, helping to shape policy, training, and operational standards. As a Coxswain and Watch Officer, he has played a direct role in saving lives at sea and mentoring crew members.
“When I first joined Marine Rescue NSW, I never imagined I’d still be doing this 15 years later. Back then, I was the one soaking up every bit of experience I could from the old hands. These days, I find myself in their shoes—mentoring the next generation, passing on what I’ve learnt about seamanship, staying calm under pressure, and just showing up for each other.
“Every call-out teaches you something. It’s not about medals—it’s about being there when someone needs help, no matter the time or weather. That’s what we do. And if I can help a new crew member find their confidence, then that’s worth more than any award.
“Volunteering with Marine Rescue Port Stephens is a fulfilling experience. Over 15 years, I’ve seen first-hand how a calm voice on the radio or a steady hand on the helm can make all the difference. It’s never about the recognition—it’s about showing up, being ready, and serving the community when it matters most,” Nolan said.
Ryman provides critical support to the unit’s IT infrastructure—ensuring vital life-saving communication systems and data remain secure, reliable, and operational. While in the radio room as a Watch Officer, he has balanced frontline vigilance with technical leadership.
Kate Washington and Lee Ryman
“Most people think of Marine Rescue NSW as boats and radios—but there’s a lot that has to work behind the scenes to keep this unit operational.
“When lightning took out the base (in April 2024), we had to rebuild fast—phones, servers, radios, the lot. It wasn’t pretty, but we got it done, and we kept the comms up the whole time. That’s what I’m proud of—making sure the crew on the water have the tools and support they need.
“Marine Rescue NSW is about more than boats and radios—it’s about resilience, reliability, and community. Behind every rescue, there’s a network of people, systems, and trust. I’m proud to have spent the last 15 years helping ensure those systems support our crews when the call comes in,” Ryman said.
Commissioner Barrell said Laurie and Lee are both valued and trusted members of Marine Rescue Port Stephens.
L to R – Lee Ryman – Laurie Nolan and Marine Rescue Port Stephens Unit Commander Ben van der Wijngaart
“The local community is privileged to have such highly skilled and dedicated volunteers ready to assist them in their time of need. We congratulate them on their diligent service,” the Commissioner said.
Marine Rescue Port Stephens base at Nelson Head
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.
