Marine Rescue NSW Senior Chaplain, Reverend Richard Wrightson, has today been made a Life Member of the organisation.
Rev Wrightson is a volunteer with Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie.
Hunter/Central Coast Regional Director Jim Wright presented Rev Wrightson with his Life Membership at the official opening of the unit’s new $1.8 million Search and Rescue Coordination Centre this morning.
Mr Wright said Rev Wrightson was worthy of the service’s highest honour, awarded in recognition of his sustained and valuable contribution, both operationally and in his chaplaincy role.
“We extend our thanks to Rev Wrightson for his lengthy service as a crew member and watch officer but perhaps more importantly, for his contribution to the pastoral care of our members and their families, particularly during times of tragedy,” he said.
“He has extended great compassion and care to his fellow members, not only those who have lost their own loved ones but also those who have taken part in traumatic and troubling operations, available at all hours to provide careful counsel and support.
“I know each individual is grateful to him for this.”
Rev Wrightson, who is soon to retire as Chaplain, was one of the founding chaplains to officiate at the annual Emergency Services Volunteers Memorial Service, taking part in his last service in October this year.
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