Steve Clifford earns an award nomation for his tireless work with Marine Rescue NSW. Picture supplied

An outstanding Marine Rescue NSW volunteer has been named a finalist for the 2026 Rotary Districts of NSW Emergency Services Community Awards (RESCA), recognising his exceptional commitment to saving lives on the water and serving his community.

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Botany Port Hacking volunteer Steve Clifford, of Yowie Bay, is in the running for the 2026 Marine Rescue NSW Officer of the Year Award.

Over his six years of dedicated service with Marine Rescue Botany Port Hacking, Mr Clifford has contributed across critical roles, including serving as a radio operator, rescue vessel crew member, and fundraising manager. His tireless efforts have significantly strengthened the unit's fundraising capability, supported overall operational readiness, and helped promote vital boating safety initiatives.

Retiring 11 years ago, Mr Clifford, 72, always wanted to "give back" to his community.

"If we pull up on the side of a boat that's broken down and see the look on people's faces after they've been in trouble, I get a great deal of satisfaction from that," he said. "There's not one of us who would put ourselves in front of those we help, and we saw that in Ballina recently. We're here to save lives. There's a sadness too where you look for people who are missing. But next moment a whale breaches and the world seems different again.

"Also seeing the generosity of people who graciously help us fundraise through raffles. We have a common goal and we all look after each other. They do it because they know they need us."

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Todd Andrews said Mr Clifford exemplified the deeply held values of selfless service that underpin the state's volunteer marine rescue service.

"Volunteers represent the very best of Marine Rescue NSW. They give their time freely, often behind the scenes, to ensure boaters can enjoy our waterways safely and that help is available when it is needed most," Commissioner Andrews said.

Commissioner Andrews said being named a RESCA finalist is a tremendous achievement, especially given the calibre of emergency service personnel across the state. "[Mr Clifford] has made a profound, positive impact within his respective unit and community through a willingness to serve others. His leadership, professionalism and dedication make him a worthy finalist and valued member of the Marine Rescue NSW family," Commissioner Andrews said.

The winners will be announced on July 25.