Paul Sharpe awarded surf club life membership

Umina Surf Life Saving Club has awarded Mr Paul Sharpe life membership to honour more than 40 years with the club.

Mr Sharpe joined the club at the age of six in 1976.

Club president Mr Stephen Scahill said the club was grateful to Mr Sharpe's commitment to the safety of the community and education of their young members.

"Paul's dedication to lifesaving is unmeasurable.

"He is always working towards the further improvements and mentorship of members," Mr Scahill said.

"You will see him on the beach every weekend during the patrolling season of September to April."

Mr Sharpe's father Mr John Sharpe is still involved within the club and was at the club's annual meeting to see his son receive the recognition and "had a tear in his eye", Mr Scahill said.

He said Paul Sharpe had held many positions including the presidential position for four years, director of lifesaving for another four, and a patrol captain for the past 13 years.

For each of the last three years, under his leadership as director of lifesaving, the club had won the NSW Patrol of the Year award.

The club was also awarded the Young Lifesaver award for the past two years.

After joining the club in 1976, Mr Sharpe received his bronze medallion in 1986.

As a young competitor within the club, he successfully competed in first aid competitions winning at branch and state levels from 1985 to 1989.

SOURCE:

Media release, 30 Sep 2020

Wendy Cook, Umina SLSC